Chamberlink Dec23 Jan 24

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER LINK

December 2023/January 2024

Free to Members £5.00 where sold

My door is open – new president Nasir pledges support for all See page 5

Picture: Marc Kirsten

• See the Chamber’s new office • Docs team join the fast lane • All the ABCC winners

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Contents Chamberlink December 2023/January 2024 Business News 4

Editor’s View Facing a challenging new year together

5

Business News New Chamber president takes up role

80

12 President’s Focus Shaun Gray, president of Burton & District Chamber

Features

14 The Griffin Report Harvir Sahota, Mahirs Experience

58 Executive Search & Recruitment: What is executive search?

22 Where do you fancy?

The Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food

62 Breaking the barriers and shaping success 64 Manufacturing: Innovating with industry 4.0

Sector Focus

Chamber Patrons

68 Business Travel: Commons leader visits tram line

40 University opens city centre headquarters

1813 Club and Premier Members

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71 Finance: Support on offer for tech firms

42 Freight firm in acquisition

72 Legal: Protecting against competitors

Chamber Group

74 Manufacturing: AI innovation developed by university

44 International Trade: Chamber representatives promote the region

76 Property: New Smithfield plans revealed 78 Skills: Bootcamp graduate lands job on TV show

46 ABCC: TV host wins ABCC President’s Award 48 Cannock Chase: Christmas comes to outlet store

80 Technology: New software to provide critical security

49 Burton & District: Chamber crowns Hidden Gem

83 The Arts: B:Music reveals winter programme

50 Lichfield & Tamworth: Chamber hosts AGM

84 Sport: Care provider gives back to grassroots sport

51 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Funeral director brings building back to life

Member Section 85 Chamber Insight Alison Delaney, Little Bird People Development

52 Solihull: Innovative lab to shape the future of telecoms 54 Future Faces: Looking back on a year of success

Events

88 New Members Chamber welcomes new members

46

56 The latest list of Chamber events

CHAMBER LINK

90 …any other business News from Chamber businesses

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) is here to connect, support and grow local businesses. Accredited by the British Chambers, we have acted as the voice of local businesses since 1813.

The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Editor: John Lamb 07814 539329 lambjohn@mac.com Deputy Editor: Dan Harrison 0121 274 3239, 0797 1144052 d.harrison@birmingham-chamber.com Assistant Editor: Jon Griffin 07963 405538 j.griffin@birmingham-chamber.com Reporter: Feron Jayawardene 0121 2743240, 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com Reporter: Darby Newman 07951 245985 d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com

You can now read the latest issue of CHAMBERLINK and view back issues online at: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com

December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 3

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

Facing it together – a challenging New Year adly, we can’t look forward to Christmas and the New Year overflowing with the certainty and confidence that business thrives on.

Economic doubt, war in Europe and the Middle East and political turmoil are bound to have a draining impact on businesses both at home and abroad.

And because of that, as the Chamber’s new president Nasir Awan points out (see page 5), even established businesses will have to redefine and realign their costings and overcome a number of hurdles.

But yet again, businesses in Greater Birmingham are showing remarkable resilience and bravery in the face of adversity. I use the word brave advisably, because while it might not take the sort of courage to run a business that it does in the theatre of war, we are continually reminded of the determination that is an imperative in running your own business or being responsible for one.

That is why people like Shaun Gray (see page 12) put a great deal of value to having the support of the Chamber and why men like Harvir Sahota (see pages 14 and 15) have the courage to make a million-pound success out of small beginnings.

And the value of Chamber membership is underlined when you look at the sort of influence it wields in high places.

In this issue of Chamberlink we have highlighted how members have reached the very

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FRONT COVER New president Nasir Awan at the Chambers’ new Hagley Road HQ See page 5 Published by

Kemps Publishing Ltd 8, The Courtyard, 707 Warwick Road, Solihull, B91 3DA 0121 765 4144 www.kempspublishing.co.uk Managing Editor: Laura Blake Designers: Lloyd Hollingworth & Stuart Burton Advertising: 0121 765 4144 jon.jones@kempspublishing.co.uk Printers: Stephens & George Print Group

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heart of decision-making globally, nationally and locally. Among them were the House of Lords and the US Embassy.

In recent issues of Chamberlink we have demonstrated how members knocked on the door of the Chancellor at 11 Downing Street. And the Chamber is also a major force in the newlycreated Business Commission West Midlands, a powerful group championing growth across the West Midlands.

Our reach to high places in government was extended even further when former president Saqib Bhatti was appointed as a minister in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology.

So as we face up to the challenges of 2024, we can take comfort that there is a degree of safety in numbers in the shape of Chamber membership.

With that in mind...

Chamberlink will be back in the New Year with our February edition, which will focus on the Chamber’s annual dinner and awards at the ICC. In the meantime, everyone on the magazine and all Chamber staff wish members a merry Christmas and prosperous New Year – remembering that we are always here to help with your business needs.

And keep on top of all business news important to you by subscribing to ChamberlinkDaily, available every workday morning for free.

PRIVACY NOTICE: Kemps Publishing Ltd process personal information for certain legitimate interest purposes, which includes the following: • To provide postal copies of this publication to Chamber members and Kemps' customers; and • To offer marketing and promotional opportunities within this publication to Chamber members and prospects.

Whenever we process data for these purposes, we always ensure we treat your Personal Data rights in high regard. If you wish to, you can visit www.kempspublishing.co.uk to view our full Privacy Notice and to learn more about our legitimate interests and your rights in this regard.

CHAMBERLINK is produced on behalf of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce by Kemps Publishing Ltd and is distributed to members without charge. The Chambers and the publisher are committed to achieving the highest quality standards. While every care has been taken to ensure that the information it contains is accurate, neither the Chambers nor the publisher can accept any responsibility for any omission or inaccuracies that might arise. Views expressed in the magazine are not necessarily those of the Chambers. This publication (or any part thereof) may not be reproduced, transmitted or stored in print or electronic format without prior written permission of Kemps Publishing Ltd.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Business News Latest news from Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

We’re ready to face the Inside challenges ahead - Nasir

By Dan Harrison asir Awan, the boss of international wholesale firm Awan Marketing, became president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and vowed to help businesses “create new opportunities locally, nationally and internationally”.

His two-year term as successor to Deb Leary was confirmed at the GBCC’s annual meeting at the Edgbaston Park Hotel.

Nasir is the CEO of importing and wholesale company Awan Marketing, headquartered in the Hockley area of Birmingham.

The business was founded in 1976, building on the small retail outlet founded by Nasir’s late father and today serves as a key distributor for household brands, as well as having established

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A top city club is on the move

‘As president my door will always be open for businesses to come and talk to me’ suppliers from Vietnam, Turkey, Sri Lanka, Korea, India, Pakistan and Europe.

Nasir has a long association with the Chamber, having been vice-president to Deb Leary and previously serving as president of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (formerly the Institute of Asian Business) from 2011 to 2014.

He also holds a number of charitable roles and is a Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands.

Nasir said: “It is a great honour and a privilege to become Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president and it is a role that comes with huge responsibility.

“I take over as president at a time where we are facing a lot of challenges nationally, internationally and also locally.

“There are a lot of challenges ahead for businesses with the cost of energy and the wars in Ukraine and Middle East pushing prices up.

“Established businesses will have to redefine and realign their costings and overcome a number of hurdles.

“But we are here to offer support as a Chamber and, as president my door will always be open for businesses to come and talk to me.

“I want to ensure that businesses in Greater Birmingham survive and flourish, creating new

Page 9 New meets new: New president Nasir Awan and chief executive Henrietta Brealey on their way to the Chamber’s new offices at 54 Hagley Road (see page 26)

opportunities locally, nationally and internationally.”

GBCC chairman Greg Lowson said: “I am delighted to welcome Nasir Awan as president of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce for the next two years.

“Nasir has a wealth of invaluable experience to draw upon, from his own business ventures to his appointment as a Deputy Lieutenant of the West Midlands.

“I would like to thank Deb Leary for her time as president. Deb’s tenure has been marked with some remarkable moments for the city-region, with the hosting of the Commonwealth Games in 2022 being the highlight.

“At the start of her role Deb highlighted that global trade, innovation and collaboration would be the key pillars of her presidency and it has been fantastic to see how she has pushed these themes over the last two years.”

FOR MORE NEWS AND PICTURES FROM THE CHAMBER’S ANNUAL MEETING TURN TO PAGES 6 AND 7

... and why the docs team is getting into the fast lane Page 21 December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 5

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BUSINESS NEWS

Deb awards her medal to ‘great’ Intercity boss A businessman with “an attitude that is focused on the art of the possible” was the recipient of outgoing Chamber president Deb Leary’s President’s Medal at the annual meeting.

Deb presented Intercity Technology group managing director Charlie Blakemore with the award during the meeting at Edgbaston Park Hotel.

Deb said: “It is with great pleasure I present my final

President’s Medal to Charlie Blakemore and Intercity.

“Charlie and the team at Intercity get what ‘good business’ is all about. Innovative, creative, inclusive, client and supplier and community focused, Charlie and Intercity as a whole, are true champions of the city and this region. As regards Charlie, he’s simply a great business leader with an attitude that is focused on the art of the possible.

Great business leader: Deb Leary presents the President’s Medal to Charlie Blakemore

Outgoing president Deb Leary congratulates her successor Nasir Awan at the Chamber annual meeting.

Deb said: “It’s been an absolute honour to represent the Chamber as President during the past two years. There is still a long way to go and I’m sure Nasir Awan will do a great job in acting as a conduit between businesses and the Chamber. When I started my presidency, the region was going through a challenging time with the Covid-19 pandemic, hybrid working and cost of living crisis. However, the resilience of the region was seen during these times and businesses powered through.

“With change and uncertainty comes opportunities and Birmingham is a testament to seizing all these wonderful opportunities to strive.

The world needs to see the creativity, talent and industry knowledge we possess.”

“The first time I met Charlie was the day I became president. Since then, I have had the pleasure of working alongside him on the Chamber board.

“As my term ends, it is fitting that I now have the opportunity to present this award to a business leader and a company that I truly feel represents business excellence and who has shared my journey from start to finish.”

Charlie, also a GBCC board member, began his career as a mechanical engineering apprentice and has held senior roles in the

land, maritime and air sectors of global defence and aerospace company BAE Systems. He joined Intercity in 2018 as group managing director. Charlie also managed nonleague club Chasetown FC over an eight-year period.

Meanwhile, three long-standing Chamber members were recognised during the AGM. Awards were presented to Crowne Plaza Solihull (33 years), Thomas Fattorini Ltd (58 years) and Art Business Loans (25 years).

• See page 57 for more pictures

President lends support to blood cancer charity A Birmingham-based national blood cancer charity that provides world-leading clinical trials and life-saving treatments has been selected as new Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president Nasir Awan’s chosen charity.

Cure Leukaemia was established in 2003 by Professor Charlie Craddock and patients Graham Silk and Michael Woolley to allow those with blood cancer in the Birmingham area to access effective new treatments which were then becoming available.

Since then, the charity has expanded to a national level, connecting patients with worldclass and potentially lifesaving treatment which would otherwise not be available to them through standard care.

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The GBCC will support Cure Leukaemia with a host of activities and initiatives – including fundraising at the annual dinner and awards on 15 February – throughout the year.

‘Cure Leukaemia is the world leader in looking at cures and treatments’ Nasir Awan said: “Cure Leukaemia is a charity that I have been following closely since one of our previous presidents, Steve Brittan, was diagnosed with leukaemia.

“Based here in Birmingham, Cure Leukaemia is the world leader in looking at cures and treatments, as well as training nurses who can

administer the drugs, which is a very technical and highly-skilled operation.

“These nurses travel all over the world from Birmingham. The charity is putting Birmingham on the map by leading the fight against a horrible, degenerative and life-threatening disease which is affecting people worldwide. I’m very proud that we in Birmingham are taking the lead.

“With Professor Charlie Craddock and Cure Leukaemia being based here, it seemed fitting that we should be supporting a charity that is based in Birmingham, reaches people all over the world and has an international reputation.”

In January 2020, Cure Leukaemia began a three-year, £3m commitment to funding the national Trials Acceleration Programme (TAP).

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BUSINESS NEWS

Schumacher MD is named new VP The leader of a Birmingham-based international packaging member has been elected as vice-president of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Mike Owens is managing director of Schumacher Packaging, the specialist manufacturer of corrugated cardboard and solidboard packaging.

Mike has worked in the packaging industry for more than 30 years, holding a number of roles in plant management, operations and finance, as well as at senior European leadership level.

Born in Northern Ireland, he holds an MA (Hons) degree in Economics from Edinburgh University.

Schumacher Packaging – based in Marston Green near Birmingham Airport – became patrons of the GBCC in 2022.

Although the firm is part of the German-owned Schumacher Group, its connections to Birmingham go back nearly eight decades.

Three years ago, Bavariaheadquartered Schumacher Group acquired Jaffabox, a packaging manufacturer originally founded in Birmingham by the Amyes family in 1946.

Chamber’s top team (left to right): Henrietta Brealey (chief executive), Mike Owens (vice-president), Nasir Awan (president), Greg Lowson (chairman) and Deb Leary (immediate past president)

Mike, who has also been a member of the GBCC’s influential Chamber Council over the past 12 months, said: “I’m delighted and

honoured to have been elected to the position of vice-president at GBCC. I look forward to closely supporting Nasir Awan in his role

as president and to promoting the great work of the Chamber and the fantastic benefits membership brings.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Autumn Statement a ‘solid start’

By Jon Griffin Greater Birmingham business leaders hailed key measures in Jeremy Hunt’s Autumn Statement as a major boost to UK investment following pleas from the British Chambers of Commerce.

Raj Kandola, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) director of external affairs, said the Chancellor’s statement would help to unlock investment and tackle cost pressures for struggling businesses. Key points in the statement included: • National insurance will be reduced to 10 per cent from 12 per cent • Class 2 National Insurance paid by selfemployed to be abolished and Class 4 National Insurance to be reduced by one percentage point to eight per cent.

• Universal Credit and disability benefits to increase by 6.7 per cent, in line with September's inflation rate • State pension to be increased by 8.6 per cent from April 2024 to £221.20 a week • An additional £4.5bn of support to the manufacturing sector between 2025 and 2030 • Additional £500m funding for UK artificial intelligence • Three further investment zones, in the West Midlands, East Midlands and Greater Manchester • Hand-rolling tobacco duty to increase by 10 per cent, while alcohol taxes are frozen until 1 August, 2024 • The Government is making permanent a tax break for businesses which allows them to

offset investment in machinery, IT and equipment against corporation tax. It is also extending business rate relief for many small firms, including pubs and other hospitality businesses.

The West Midlands’ Investment Zone, which received the go-ahead from the Autumn Statement, has the potential to directly attract more than £2bn of new investment into the regional economy and a further £3.5bn overall, creating more than 30,000 jobs by 2034.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will now be able to bid into a £150m Investment Opportunity Fund to attract private investment.

‘It was pleasing to see the Chancellor has listened to our calls and made full expensing a permanent policy’ A total of £98m has been allocated for projects across the West Midlands from the third round of the Levelling Up Fund while £3.8m has been assigned for the West Midlands 5G Innovation Region.

Mr Kandola said: “With higher levels of inflation creating more than expected fiscal headroom, the Chancellor was able to deliver an Autumn Statement which took sensible steps to unlock investment and tackle cost pressures for struggling businesses.

“Data gathered via our Quarterly Business Report has consistently underlined the historical low levels of capex investment, so it was pleasing to see the Chancellor has listened to our calls and made full expensing a

permanent policy – reforming the pension fund system, and R&D tax reliefs should also offer a much-needed boost for investment opportunities.

“Simplifying the planning process in order to speed up infrastructure investment is a step in the right direction. With many firms still suffering from eye-watering costs, it was also good to see the Chancellor freeze the business rates multiplier and extend relief for hospitality and retail businesses. However, a more radical proposal would have been to extend the multiplier approach to larger businesses given that many smaller firms operate in larger rated premises.

“With the OBR’s projections laying bare the fragility of the economic recovery, it’s clear that Mr Hunt cannot rest on his laurels. In particular, the Government will need to build on this base in order to continue to bring down inflation, tackle labour market gaps and fire investment – the statement marks a solid start.”

Emily Stubbs, GBCC senior policy and projects manager, said: “Although much coverage was devoted to cuts in National Insurance for employees, it’s a shame that an equivalent scheme wasn’t introduced for employers given the price pressures many continue to face.

“As businesses continue to grapple with recruitment challenges, it was pleasing to see additional funding being made available for boosting apprenticeship opportunities.

“Nevertheless, we would have liked the Government to go further and offer businesses flexibility in how they spend levy funding and it remains to be seen how the mandatory work scheme will operate in practice.”

Birmingham expects increase in turnover

By Dan Harrison Businesses across Greater Birmingham are rallying against the challenges posed by geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty, according to a major new report.

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) quarterly business report for the third quarter reveals a significant number of firms are predicting an increase in turnover and profitability over the next 12 months.

According to the report, sponsored by Birmingham City University, 70 per cent of businesses surveyed expect an uplift in turnover, while 77 per cent are forecasting a boost in profitability.

The number of firms reporting an increase in domestic (39 per cent)

and export sales (23 per cent) fell from the last quarter.

Forty-four per cent of firms reported that their domestic sales volumes have remained constant 11 per cent higher than the previous quarter.

Recruitment remains a major challenge for businesses. The report highlights that 60 per cent of firms attempted to recruit, of which 72 per cent had difficulty doing so (up by four per cent from Q2).

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “Increased geopolitical tensions and economic uncertainty continue to dominate the external picture for businesses. Despite this, businesses in Greater Birmingham remain positive with the balance score for businesses predicting an increase in turnover and profitability over the coming 12 months remaining strong.”

Speakers at the launch of the Chamber quarterly business report included (left to right): Jayne Hussey, partner and head of Birmingham office at Mills & Reeve; GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey; GBCC director of external affairs Raj Kandola; director of innovation, enterprise and employability at Birmingham City University Joanna Birch and chief commercial officer of the Birmingham Royal Ballet Paul James

‘UNLEASH POTENTIAL IN BIRMINGHAM’S COMMUNITIES’ – SEE PAGE 33 8 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

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BUSINESS NEWS

Popular nightclub to move to prime Broad Street spot Snobs, one of Birmingham’s most famous and best-loved nightclubs, is to relocate to Broad Street.

The club, founded more than 50 years ago, is set to move next year into the premises formerly occupied by Velvet Music Rooms.

Snobs is currently located at 51 Smallbrook Queensway, which has been at risk since earlier this year as part of the city’s regeneration plans.

More jobs: Wayne Tracey

Wayne Tracey, owner of Snobs, has revealed that the club is to move into Velvet’s former home at Cumberland House, 200 Broad Street.

He has purchased the lease of the two-floor premises from Velvet’s former owners Dani Hadley and Eilis Collins. Snobs will join other Westside nightclubs such as Reflex, Popworld, Pryzm and Rosies.

Mr Tracey said: “I’m so pleased to have found such a great position on Broad Street where we can continue the great name, brand, reputation and nightlife that everyone in Birmingham knows as Snobs. As well as relocating the business and staff, we also hope to create a few more jobs because of potentially longer opening hours, due to more passing trade in the daytime.

“We now have to carefully plan and time our move from Smallbrook Queensway to Broad Street while keeping the business trading.

On the move: Snobs premises at Smallbrook Queensway

“But we are very excited by this new opportunity to move onto the ‘golden mile’ of Broad Street in the Westside area, with all the opportunities it offers.

“There’s a healthy nightlife on Westside, but also all the extra footfall from conferences at the ICC, with many top hotels in the area, and entertainment at places like The Rep theatre and the Utilita Arena.”

Mike Olley, general manager of Westside BID, said: “We are so

excited that the one and only Snobs nightclub is moving to Broad Street.

“Everyone knows Snobs – whether you’re in late-middle age like me and went there as a teenager in the 1970s, or whether you’re part of the younger generation who frequent the club now.

“We were sad to see Velvet close, but we are thrilled that their coveted location at the heart of Broad Street will now have a bright new future.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

New ministerial role for former Chamber president Midlands leader: David Morris

PwC appoints regional leader PwC partner David Morris has been appointed as regional leader for the Midlands, overseeing the Birmingham, East Midlands and Milton Keynes practices.

David succeeds Matthew Hammond, who is taking on new roles after a decade as a regional leader.

Matthew initially led PwC’s West region for two years and has spent the last eight years leading PwC across the Midlands, while also being senior partner for the firm’s Birmingham office.

During that time, PwC’s Midlands practice has almost doubled in size, with investment in over 1,000 new roles and 44 new partners over the last eight years.

Matthew will continue to be based in Birmingham and will lead PwC’s Strategic International Markets group.

Former Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) president Saqib Bhatti has been given a ministerial position in Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s Cabinet reshuffle.

The MP for Meriden becomes a minster in the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology, stepping down from his roles as principal private secretary to secretary of state Lucy Frazer, business vice-chair of the Conservative Party, and his position on the Foreign Affairs Select Committee.

‘I am so excited by the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead for us’ Saqib was elected president of the Chamber in 2018 but relinquished his position when he was elected MP for Meriden in 2019. He was the youngest and first Muslim to hold the Chamber post.

Saqib said: “As a nation, we are on the brink of huge innovation and I am so excited by the possibilities and opportunities that lie ahead for us.”

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “Congratulations to Saqib on his appointment. The Department for Science, Technology and Innovation’s work to drive innovation that will unlock economic growth is critical both for the nation and for the region’s growth ambitions. We are pleased to see a West Midlands-based MP at the heart of this agenda.

“Saqib has longstanding connections to the region’s business community as a past-President of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and Asian Business Chamber of Commerce. We are delighted to see him continue to champion engaging businesses as his Parliamentary career goes from strength to strength and look forward to continuing to work with him in this new role.”

Excited: Saqib Bhatti

Why firms must pivot to reach net-zero

By Dan Harrison Businesses are facing an “evolving set of expectations and reality checks” when it comes to achieving their net zero ambitions, delegates at a major sustainability conference were told.

But, according to a respected civil engineer and environmental social governance (EG) expert, firms can keep up with the pace of change by better understanding their own impact.

Rachel Skinner, WSP’s executive director for responsible business and government relations, was addressing Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s annual Sustainable Business Series conference.

Speaking at Conference Aston, Ms Skinner urged businesses to “understand where your context is” in order to play a part in wider national and global climate change targets.

She said: “Net zero, in terms of action, is not a zero sum game. Doing nothing doesn’t mean you’re doing nothing. Doing nothing means you’re doing harm.

“There is tonnes of easy stuff that everyone can get across. Just that logical thinking process – where is my carbon? ‘What can I influence?’ – seems to be the best strategy to get across that 10 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Doing nothing is doing harm: Rachel Skinner

one piece of a very complicated picture. We’ve got evolving regulatory requirements out there.

All this context is out there but the granularity and the detail attached to it is changing and being added to all the time.

“That in itself is really difficult because, as a business, if you’ve set your goals and ambitions with the best of intentions, that context will keep on shifting. So, in terms of a business there is an evolving set of expectations and reality checks – there is a need to shift and pivot and to support

each other as these changes come through.”

Ms Skinner was joined by fellow keynote speaker Anne Shaw, executive director for Transport for West Midlands, who discussed the “roadmap” to decarbonising the region’s transport system.

She set out some of the “big moves” in the authority’s transport plan, which include influencing a behavioural shift in the way people travel and making public transport more accessible, inclusive, safe and reliable.

She said: “Those big moves we are making as part of our framework, our statutory responsibility as a transport authority – we plan the things that we do, we invest in the infrastructure that we have and we make sure the services we are providing, whether it be buses, trains or the way in which you pay for those services, is being done in the most effective way to ensure it’s easy for people to use and access.

“Ultimately, as Transport for West Midlands, we want to make sure we’re providing journeys for everyone. People who don’t have access to a car rely on access to a good, functioning transport system and it is our job to make sure that is as decarbonised as possible.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Shaun Gray, president of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce, is European managing director of Ginho, a global specialist in manufacturing precision components with its European head office located in Burton upon Trent. Here he shares his passion for going for growth through trading internationally whilst supporting the communities where firms operate. s I write this piece, I have just come back from two outstanding events in one week.

The first was an invitation from the Greater Birmingham Global Chambers of Commerce (GBGCC) to the House of Lords in London to join politicians, diplomats, civil servants, businesses and Chambers to push for export growth and discuss the British Chambers of Commerce’s (BCC) Trade Manifesto which sets out a comprehensive list of how to get more businesses thinking global.

It was insightful to hear firsthand contributions to the debate from Minister of State for International Trade, Nigel Huddleston MP, and Shadow Minister for Exports, Afzal Khan MP. This was followed by a trip to US Embassy to meet with Brenda VanHorn, commercial counselor to US Embassy in the UK where the open and direct discussions around future trade, sports science, cyber security, services, manufacturing and automotive sectors were very encouraging.

A

‘It’s fair to say that there is much to do to help build the capability and knowledge of international trade’ The US and UK governments are working on a number of Memorandum of Understandings (MOUs) between individual states in the US and have a joint approach to collective trade. This will bring fantastic opportunities to our region for both export and inward investment.

A figure that has stayed with me from the event is that just 10 per cent of UK businesses currently get involved in international trade. With research by the BCC also revealing UK exports have been broadly static since the pandemic, it’s fair to say that there is much to do to help build the capability and knowledge of international trade.

Insightful visits: Shaun Gray

There is so much for businesses to go for, which makes it an incredibly exciting time for anyone to put an international lens on their business.

Like the Chamber, I believe that international business can make

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every business a stronger one. It opens up trading with the larger companies, which have international bases and like their suppliers to have that capability too.

That’s why I’m so motivated by the potential of the GBGCC, of

which Ginho became the first patron of last year. Already, an introduction to the Mexican Embassy helped Ginho speed up the process of opening our new Mexico operation and with regard to supply chain partners, Ginho now has a lot of new connections with the automotive and freight sectors locally.

I believe the GBGCC can really champion international trade and help businesses to explore opportunities to expand their businesses through export into new markets. It can help businesses to facilitate conversations with international governments and the conventions relating to the development of new business sectors can be particularly helpful in developing growth plans, identifying overseas opportunities, and trading in new countries.

I really would encourage any business to think about trading internationally and do some exploring by making the most of the expertise at hand via the Chamber.

The other fantastic event I had the privilege to attend was the East Staffordshire & South Derbyshire Business Awards. Investing in the local community and supporting events such as these I believe are crucial for the sustainability and growth of the local economy, as well as development of a strong and resilient community.

Held at the Burton Albion Pirelli Stadium, the event really does recognise businesses, large and small, and brings together the community for an annual celebration. I would like to congratulate DIY, home and garden centre Masseys for winning the Business of the Year.

I really do believe that businesses across Burton and the Greater Birmingham region have exceptional opportunities through the Chamber to grow their businesses both internationally and locally.

I would encourage everyone to make the most of the information and expertise available through their membership. Here’s to us all growing globally and supporting locally...

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Griffin Report Harvir Sahota has guided his parents’ small Soho Road deli into a multi-million turnover business. Today Mahirs Experience is still very much a family concern but caters to over 100 venues nationwide in ethnic foods. JON GRIFFIN met the Wolverhampton University graduate to find out how that transformation was achieved.

Nationwide brand: Harvir Sahota at the Mahirs Experience premises near West Bromwich Albion’s Hawthorns ground

t started as a small Indian deli on Soho Road back in the 70s – and grew to boast a string of A-List clients from the Dalai Lama, the Princess of Jordan, Commonwealth Games athletes, cricket star Monty Panesar to West Midlands Mayor Andy Street…

From humble beginnings all those years ago selling Indian sweets and savouries in inner-city Birmingham, Mahirs Experience has mushroomed into a multi-million turnover business recognised today as one of the UK’s top catering and events companies.

Or, as CEO Harvir Sahota – who began life in the family business as a 13-year-old serving in the Soho Road shop – says with a chuckle looking back at those 70s days: “You have heard of Charlie and the Chocolate Factory – this was more like Charlie and the Curry Factory, with massive pots and woks.”

The world has moved on considerably for Mahirs since Harvir was serving alongside the pots and

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woks in his parents’ shop a few miles down the A41 from its current headquarters in 15,000 sq ft offices a stone’s throw from the Hawthorns, home of West Bromwich Albion.

But the company remains very much a family firm which owes its enduring success to handmade and freshly prepared food embracing a variety of exotic cuisine including South Indian, Kashmiri, Gujarati, Indo Fusion, Oriental and European dishes.

And that family ethos centred on quality – first instilled by Harvir’s parents Mahir and Parmjit in the days of the Soho Road store – has remained constant throughout.

“Today we are an approved and listed caterer at over 100 venues nationwide. We are synonymous with quality, good food – we like to be seen as market leaders. We do believe in the mantra that you are only as good as your last job.”

It’s a creed which Harvir says remains key to the success of a family concern which grew over half century

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from a family shop into the biggest supplier of ethnic food to athletes at last year’s Commonwealth Games in Birmingham.

‘The family were really good at making delicious food but in the nicest possible way they were not too good at paperwork, administration, systems, processes – all the things I was learning at university’ The CEO still looks back on his teenage days serving in the shop as a crucial learning process. “The Indian delicatessen was owned by my father and his brother. As I was growing up that was my part-time job. It kept me grounded and I learnt a lot. I absolutely loved it.”

By the time of his graduation from Wolverhampton University in

the early 2000s Harvir’s Computer Science Degree studies were to prove invaluable for the family business. “I studied business information systems and I was fascinated by computers, networking, databases and programming.

“It became quite evident that the family were really good at making delicious food but in the nicest possible way they were not too good at paperwork, administration, systems, processes – all the things I was learning at university. They asked me to come into the family business and I brought my own skills, sales, marketing, finance, operations.”

The firm eventually expanded into a 5,000 sq ft catering unit in Smethwick but a compulsory purchase order on the premises to allow a hospital to be built proved the catalyst for its relocation to offices neighbouring WBA’s Hawthorns HQ in 2013.

“As with most things in life I see things as opportunities as opposed

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BUSINESS NEWS to a hindrance. I thought now was the time for us to actually buy our own home – we were renting at the time – and design a place for growth.”

Mahirs’ growth since the departure from Smethwick speaks for itself, from a humble turnover of just a couple of hundred thousand pounds to a multi-million pound business.

“Today we employ around 15 staff but that balloons up – we have quite a lot of people on flexible contracts. At weekends when we have events, that figure can go up to 30 or 40. We are now doing a lot more than just private events catering. We are not reliant on heavy marketing, it is very much organic growth and word of mouth.”

And that organic development and hard-won reputation for quality has proved a winning formula for Mahirs, with a series of eye-catching clients keen to sample the array of dishes produced in West Bromwich.

“Last year we provided about 100,000 meals to the athletes village at the Commonwealth Games. We were the biggest supplier of ethnic catering to the Games.

“We did Andy Street’s birthday party at the Black Country Museum in June, we did Monty Panesar’s wedding at the Ricoh Arena in Coventry, we catered for the

Hands on: Narvir Sahota at the heart of Mahirs Experience operations

Princess of Jordan when she came to Birmingham in the Council House Banqueting Suite.

“We catered for a five-day event for the Dalai Lama at the Nottingham Arena – we served about 30,000 meals for attendees and followers.”

‘I have always dreamt of having my own training academy’ In common with all catering and events companies Mahirs faced a critical juncture when Covid-19 struck – and used the pandemic to restructure the business by broadening its horizons. “We have diversified into three divisions – we have got the events catering

division, the wholesale and food service division and a retail division.

“We have started to supply schools, universities, football clubs, restaurants. We have got a mix of sporting stadia, English Heritage and National Trust venues such as stately homes.

“In Birmingham we have got the Eastside Rooms, Millennium Point, the Botanical Gardens, football clubs like Aston Villa and WBA, the West Midlands Safari Park.

“We have some big ambitions.

We are planning to open a culinary school with the focus on Indian food – we have got the kitchens, the facilities and the room to do it.

Recruitment is getting harder, the skillset that we need in order to provide for our type of cuisine has really come from family members

and generations. They are willing to pass on their knowledge to the next generation.

“Every now and again we are recruiting from abroad. There is nothing wrong with that but it is a long and expensive process – I have always dreamt of having my own training academy.

“It will future-proof the business and realise our dreams of giving something back. We also adopt a charity every year – we have done it every year since 2014 through the Mahirs Foundation.”

Harvir is grateful for the support he received from the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce during the pandemic.

“Being members was great – Anjum Khan and staff sent supportive emails about who we could contact and get in touch with, and that definitely helped.”

And the biggest medical emergency for 100 years also helped shape the future for the local family firm with a national reputation. “We went into the pandemic as really one business – a very volatile seasonal business – and we came out of it with that business still there but with loads of other facets to our bow.

“The pandemic was always halfglass full, never an end of the world type of thing – I am just not programmed that way.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Mills & Reeve in move to Paradise Mills & Reeve is taking 32,000 sq ft of space on the fourth and fifth floors of One Centenary Way in Paradise Birmingham in the Summer of 2024 amid team growth and the requirement for a larger space.

The law firm has had a presence in Birmingham for 25 years and has spent the last 18 years at its office in the heart of Birmingham city centre in Colmore Row. Starting with a team of five employees the team has now outgrown their space with more than 300 current employees, 170 of them being lawyers. The firm has ambitions to expand even further and increase its presence in the city.

Mills & Reeve provides a full legal service offering from its Birmingham base, including corporate, banking, commercial, employment, private wealth, real estate and family.

Signing up for one-and-a-half floors of cutting edge office space at One Centenary Way, Mills & Reeve will share the building with other occupiers, including Goldman Sachs, Arup and JLL. Jayne Hussey, partner and head of the Birmingham office at Mills & Reeve said: “Our move to One

Welcome to Paradise: Jayne Hussey and Ross Fittall are overlooked by Mills & Reeve’s new home

Centenary Way marks our continued commitment to the city of Birmingham and to our ambitious growth plans. As our team grows we are excited to be moving to an up and coming, ever evolving location in Paradise.

“Our decision to move to One Centenary Way also reflects our commitment to minimising our

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impact on the environment and recognising our responsibility for guardianship of the environment.

It’s one of the city’s most sustainable and SMART buildings providing cutting-edge technology, services and amenities which reflect our corporate values.”

Ross Fittall, commercial director of Paradise Birmingham

development and asset managers, MEPC, said: “The building offers superb opportunities to promote staff wellness and wellbeing, with on-site facilities like a cycle hub, storage, changing rooms and a sauna.”

CBRE acted for Mills & Reeve while Avison Young advised MEPC and Paradise on the letting.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Meet the Team hambers’ executive assistant Kate Warnaby’s working world once revolved around fairy dust and pantomime dames – and now she’s moved on to Covid, Brexit and HS2….

“Naturally outgoing” Kate – who describes herself as a jack of all trades – left the theatre behind after a 15-year stint at the Birmingham Hippodrome as assistant to the CEO to become the right-hand woman to Chambers’ chief executive officer Henrietta Brealey.

Says Kate: “I am very proud to work here. It’s very different from the theatre world dealing with pantomime dames and fairy dust to dealing with subjects such as HS2, Brexit and Covid. It feels like I have a grown-up job.

“Some people have a very misguided view of a role like mine – they think it’s just diaries, meetings and taking notes. My main priorities are to make sure that Henrietta is in the right place at the right time with the right information and to support her in carrying out her role as CEO of the Chamber.

“I manage her diary – Henrietta is very quick and on the ball. She has also given me the responsibility to take on extra roles at the Chamber rather than just managing her diary.

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“We laugh a lot”: Kate Warnaby (right) with Henrietta Brealey

We conclude our feature introducing the teams at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce with the chief executive’s office. And that means Kate Warnaby, right-hand woman to CEO Henrietta Brealey.

“No two days are the same. I come in with a plan but it very rarely works out that way.

Henrietta is like a breath of fresh air – we laugh a lot.”

London-born Kate, who moved to the West Midlands when she was 12, arrived at the Chamber in 2019 to replace her predecessor Vanessa Stolban, who was retiring. “They were quite big boots to fill, everybody knew Vanessa.

“The role is what you can make of it. I am naturally outgoing and am chair of the EEG (Employee Engagement Group), which represents and supports colleagues and the executive team. We work quite closely with Avalon Adjei-Maison, chair of the DIB (Diversity, Inclusion and Belonging) to acknowledge celebrations like Eid and Diwali.

“I also work with the board and the chairman Greg Lowson and help to support the president.

I worked very closely with the past president Deb Leary over the last two years – she is fun, a really lovely lady.

“I also run the tuck shop here. I go shopping for chocolate bars and crisps, put a price on them and we raise funds for our chosen charity, Let’s Feed Brum. We recently sold 25 ex staff laptops and raised £2,500 for the charity.”

Kate is now looking forward to working closely with the new president Nasir Awan, who has taken over from Deb Leary. “Every president is different but that’s part of the fun, it brings a different dynamic to the working day.”

Mother of three and grandmother Kate admits she is also a “bit of a mother” in the office. “I like to make sure that everybody is happy and enjoying their job. I love working here and being with people – I am really proud of what the Chamber does, how well-established it is and how long it has been going.”

Henrietta added: “Kate is always very modest about her role at the Chamber – she’s the heart and soul of the place. She has led team engagement and coordinating key logistics on our office move, she’s been the ‘welcoming committee’ helping everyone settle into to our new HQ and is always looking for opportunities to support and engage the team.

“She’s the first to know if something’s wrong and someone needs an extra bit of support.

Whenever there’s a new project or piece of work that needs taking on, she’s the first to volunteer.

“I couldn’t do my job without her. She keeps the office running, keeps me organised and sane – and we have a lot of fun too.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Wide appeal: Enthusiasts gather for a Q&A

Documents team are revving up to join motorsport show utosport enthusiasts will have the intricacies of vital documents needed to move their cars and parts around Europe spelled out to them by Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce (GBCC) experts at Autosport International 24 (A24) at the NEC next year.

In a new move, representatives of the GBCC’s documents team will attend the largest motorsport show in Europe, which takes place from 11-14 January. The show is regarded as the most important meeting place for motorsport enthusiasts and will welcome motorsport enthusiasts and industry professionals for an unmissable combination of cars, stars and live action.

The GBCC will be spreading the word among a dedicated audience of the vital nature of carnet permits for transporting cars and parts around Europe. Autosport International provides the ideal mix of consumer and trade visitors from the motorsport community from across the Midlands area, as well as around the UK and globally.

Guests are attracted by the mix of big names and cars and wide variety

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Why exports docs are even more vital Documentation experts at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) have become the go-to team for autosport enthusiasts seeking to take their cars and spare parts to Europe.

Since Britain left the European Union in June, 2016, the demand for temporary export documents in the form of ATA Carnets, which are valid in the EU and 25 other countries worldwide, has soared and are required by Formula 1 teams.

Demand in the West Midlands alone has risen from 40 to 400 a month and the Chamber’s documentation experts have stepped into the breach to keep the wheels of industry turning.

David Harris (pictured), who heads the documentation team at the GBCC, says: “We do a lot of work for automotive companies when they are taking their vehicles out for cold and warm weather testing and now autosport enthusiasts are increasingly seeking the correct documentation for moving their cars and spare parts to Europe.

of race series, championships and official bodies. The show organisers have revealed the presence of Guenther Steiner, team principal of F1 Team Haas.

Close up: Visitors get the opportunity to inspect an F1 car

“Without them they could face long delays and even potential fines amounting to thousands of pounds. The world of export documentation can be difficult and complicated to those who are new to international trade or movement of goods. Even the most seasoned exporters can experience problems when completing the necessary paperwork for their shipments.

“Here at the GBCC we have more than 50 years’ experience in assisting exporters and issuing them with a wide range of documents and we are able to streamline the whole process for members in our free ATA Carnet consultation with one of our ATA Carnet experts.

“The process is incredibly efficient and could save members thousands of pounds in potential fines from HMRC.” For more information contact David at 0121 274 3218 or at documentation@birmingham-chamber.com

Mr Steiner will be opening the event to the wider public on Saturday 13 January and appearing on the main motorsport stage for a special interview and Q&A session.

The news comes as part of a big re-focus on all matters motorsport for 2024, with an emphasis on competitive racing series and championships, from the grass roots of karting, right up to the elite competition of Formula 1.

As a part of this fresh new approach to the show with its new branding and logo, visitors can look forward to a new live stage, as well as star cars and drivers, and many more new and exciting motorsport attractions.

Autosport International is made up of four shows under one roof

atthe NEC. Visitors will find dedicated halls for motorsport, engineering, performance and tuning, and the rolling thunder of the famous, tyre-smoking stunt and thrills show in the live action arena.

In Halls 3 and 3a there will be major exhibitors from all sectors of motorsport.

Show director Ben Whibley said: “We are thrilled to be able to welcome GBCC to January’s show.

“The show is an ideal platform to raise awareness for the vital work that the GBCC are doing around the essential role of carnets for moving cars and parts around Europe.”

Show tickets are on sale now at: autosportinternational.com.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Where do you fancy?

The Restaurant at Birmingham College of Food at the Summer Row campus at University College Birmingham, is a world-class training restaurant nestled in the city’s historic Jewellery Quarter, a 10-minute walk from the city centre and at the heart of the Colmore Business District. Guests experience awardwinning, exceptional value food and drink in a contemporary setting while, at the same time, supporting highly-talented students on their journey to professional excellence.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

The Restaurant Address: University College Birmingham, Summer Row B3 1JB E: K.Leach@ucb.ac.uk T: 0121 604 1000 W: restaurant.ucb.ac.uk Opening hours Monday – Friday Lunch: 12pm-1pm Dinner: 6pm-7:15pm

Food and drink Lunch Starters: smoked haddock, king prawns, spinach, lemon and parsley crumb; duck, pak choi, pickled shallot, soy and coriander dressing Mains: pork, apples, black pudding, broccoli, calvados sauce, pearl barley, broad beans, artichokes Dessert: chocolate, dark chocolate mousse, passionfruit sorbet, vanilla cheesecake, apple, blackberry, granola

Mains: beef, cheek bon bon, roscoff onion, toffee carrot spring roll, spiced chickpea, carrot, cauliflower bhaji Dessert: coconut, coconut mousse, pineapple, mango sorbet, cheesecake parfait, honeycomb, cherry.

There are vegetarians, vegan and gluten-free options.

Wines A very eclectic and adventurous wine list for everyone’s taste.

Dinner Starter: sole, smoked salmon, warm tartare sauce risotto and aranchini, chestnut and shimeji mushroom, broad bean, tarragon 22 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Business facilities Business friendly options are available. Contact the team at The Restaurant for details.

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BUSINESS NEWS

‘Tis the season to plug your skills gaps The festive season is almost here; once all of the chocolates are eaten and the decorations are away, people look to the new year to make lifestyle changes and resolutions. It is at this time that many think about a new job, learning new skills and developing their knowledge.

Given the skills deficit within our area we need to support this impetus for learning and engage with everyone who wishes to upskill. As employers you may be thinking about new projects or expansion for 2024 that will require new skills or build capacity for your organisation. However, costs incurred through recruiting and onboarding are significant and is demoralising to invest significant funds into recruitment drives only to fail to recruit suitable staff.

Apprenticeships may well be the answer; with free of charge training, bringing a talent pipeline and making an impact within the organisations. With no cost to onboarding, our support team will help you navigate the system to advertise your vacancy. The training for your apprentice will also be completely free of charge. We have young people and adults in our talent pool at the moment awaiting the opportunity to take the first steps with their career via our apprenticeship offer.

If an apprentice features in your business plan for 2024 then contact Halesowen College. There is still time before the Christmas break to successfully on board the talent you need for your business.

We currently have places for a range of apprenticeships such as accounts, business administration, digital, early years, customer services and healthcare science.

Contact us on 0121 602 7777 or email apprenticeships@halesowen.ac.uk

SPONSORED BY: HALESOWEN COLLEGE

Chamber patron acquired

by Swedish logistics giant Logistics firm Kammac – a patron of the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce - has been acquired by Swedish giant Elanders.

In a statement, Kammac said its owner and founder Paul Kammel felt the Elanders group was the best fit to allow the company to continue growing and maintain the success that had been achieved during his 35-plus years at the helm.

As a result of the acquisition, the UK will become Elanders’ fourth largest market.

‘What Kammac is especially good at is maximising resource utilisation’ Elanders operates in more than 20 countries around the world and employs more than 7,000 people.

Ged Carabini, chief operations officer of Kammac, who are headquartered in the North-West of England, said: “It has been an absolute pleasure and such a learning curve over the last six years.

“I am very proud of the growth journey that we have made and the platform that we at Kammac have created

in recent years. With the global footprint that Elanders has, we will be able to grow further in the UK by being able to offer Elanders’ current customers our solution.

“I also see great opportunities to develop the current Kammac offering by using Elanders’ proprietary platform for omnichannel solutions. I am also convinced that our unique business model will be able to create new business opportunities for Elanders in other markets.”

Magnus Nilsson, president and chief executive of Elanders, said: “I am very impressed by the company that Paul Kamel and Ged Carabin have developed together. They have created a successful company where the business model focuses on offering customers a high level of flexibility for interim storage of their products and components.

“What Kammac is especially good at is maximising resource utilisation. We look forward to working together developing Kammac's offer in the UK. We also see an opportunity to copy their business model in other countries where we operate.”

• For more international news – go to pages 44 and 45

New home for Fisher German A leading property consultancy has officially opened its new office in the heart of Birmingham as it looks to grow its influence in the city’s property markets.

Fisher German has opened its new 7,300 sq ft office at Fifteen Colmore Row, with 70 staff based out of the new premises.

The firm, which currently has 27 offices across the UK, is already in the process of hiring around 25 new members of staff to work in the office.

Key services such as commercial agency, commercial property management, investment, valuation, business rates, town planning, sustainable energy, telecoms and building consultancy services will all operate out of the new office.

Mike Price, head of commercial agency at Fisher German, said: “Two months after announcing the news of Fisher German opening an office in Colmore Row, we are delighted to have moved in.

“The superb quality of the space, combined with the highly accessible location of Colmore Row, makes it the ideal location to grow our business within Birmingham and the wider Midlands.

“While our recruitment drive to grow our Birmingham offices is moving forward, we are continuing to look for great talent in a range of disciplines to join us here.

“We cannot wait to bring fresh faces into the company and grow our work with clients both new and old from this brilliant new office.”

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New office: Members of the Fisher German team

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Chamber looks forward to the future as it moves to new office Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce has begun a new chapter in its 210-year history by moving into new premises at 54 Hagley Road in Edgbaston.

Earlier this year, the GBCC announced plans to relocate to the new office space, a stone’s throw from Chamber House which has been home since 1960 to the region’s largest and longestrunning business membership organisation.

The new premises were identified with support from commercial property agents Avison Young and followed close engagement with the GBCC’s board, employees and committee members.

A fit-out of the Chamber’s office – located on the seventh floor - has been completed by Rhino Interiors Group, while relocation experts Restore Harrow Green have assisted with the move.

‘The Chamber is here to unleash the potential of Greater Birmingham’s businesses, and our new facilities have been designed with that aim in mind’ Project management support was provided by global real estate firm Colliers International and legal advice by Squire Patton Boggs.

The Chamber has also donated material from its archives, dating back to 1813, to the Birmingham and Midland Institute.

The new location provides a contemporary space with a focus on collaboration and a flexible “town hall” style area capable of hosting small in-house events.

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of the GBCC,

Welcome: Henrietta Brealey at the new Chamber offices at 54 Hagley Road

said: “We are delighted to officially open our new HQ. “The Chamber is here to unleash the potential of Greater Birmingham’s businesses, and our new facilities have been designed with that aim in mind. We have been proud to work in partnership with our members every step of the way.

“This move marks a key milestone in a year of significant change for the Chamber that’s seen major steps in our digital transformation

programme and brand repositioning alongside expansion of our work to support and champion local businesses.

“It’s also our 210th year in business, for business. We look forward to celebrating many more in our new home.”

The GBCC, established in 1813, moved to Chamber House in 1960 from the New Street headquarters it had occupied since 1916.

The Chamber’s new address is 7th Floor West Wing, 54 Hagley Road, Birmingham, B16 8PE.

‘War Pigs’ brings home the bacon The new trailer for the epic film Napoleon has been viewed 17 million times in just two weeks, thanks to the classic Black Sabbath song War Pigs.

Napoleon has been directed by legendary British filmmaker Sir Ridley Scott, who turned 86 on 30 November. Just three days later on 3 December, Ozzy Osbourne celebrated his 75th birthday.

Jim Simpson, Black Sabbath’s original manager, says that fusing the pair’s talents on the trailer seems to have been a masterstroke.

The official trailer on Sony Pictures’ YouTube channel which features Ozzy, released on 18 October, had 17,526,000 viewings at the time of uploading.

Jim, himself now in his 80s and

yet still operating Big Bear Music from offices on Broad Street, Birmingham, said: “The Napoleon trailer is fabulous, showcasing the visual talents of Ridley Scott with the unmistakable sound of Ozzy Osbourne’s vocals and Black Sabbath’s timeless music.

“That 17 million have already watched this second trailer in just two weeks is proof of how the first two Sabbath albums I managed the releases of in 1970 will live forever.”

Shot in England and Malta, Napoleon stars Oscar-winning actor Joaquin Phoenix as Napoleon, alongside Mission: Impossible star Vanessa Kirby as Josephine. A fourand-a-half hour director’s cut for Apple TV+ is expected to follow its cinema release.

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Epic: Joaquin Phoenix is Napoleon Copyright Sony Pictures

Black Sabbath was originally four working class guys from Aston, and the band members were immortalised on Broad Street, Birmingham, in June 2019 when guitarist Tony Iommi and bass player Geezer Butler unveiled the Black Sabbath Bench, on the renamed Black Sabbath Bridge.

War Pigs is the opening track on the second album Paranoid, the band’s first No 1 that was released in September 1970, just six months after the original Black Sabbath LP. Jim, who also runs the

longstanding Henry’s Blueshouse at The O Bar, opposite the Black Sabbath Bench, added: “The ultimate proof of Sabbath’s enduring appeal is that they still have an army of fans all around the world across many different age groups and cultures.

“In the trailer for a film set more than 200 years ago, you can hear Ozzy singing Geezer’s lyrics in the anti-war song War Pigs: ’Generals gathered in their masses, just like witches at black masses…’ and it sounds absolutely perfect.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Future proof – upskill your workforce At BMet, we work with employers to help them ensure staff have the right skillset as well as understand the benefits this offers to them as the employer.

Even without issues like Brexit and the increasing digitalisation across all sectors, having a workforce that is highly trained and competent is crucial to remain competitive.

There are several ways you can help your staff develop skills with BMet. We offer part-time and online courses – perfect for those that want to upskill.

Here are five reasons to upskill your workforce: 1. RETAIN STAFF Upskilling helps to increase satisfaction among employees as it makes them feel valued.

2. ATTRACT NEW TALENT New employees will be attracted if they know part of the package is the ability to improve their skill set when joining your organisation.

3. HIGHER SKILLED WORKFORCE Upskilling programmes are invaluable for adding additional skills to your workplace.

4. MOTIVATED AND PRODUCTIVE TEAMS This one is simple. It’s no secret that employees who receive training are more engaged with the business, since they feel the company is investing in them and in their development.

5. RETURN ON INVESTMENT It is an effective way of both ensuring your company benefits from the latest, vital skill sets and giving employees an additional incentive to remain with your organisation.

To find out more call the BMet Business Development Team on 0121 446 4545.

SPONSORED BY: BIRMINGHAM METROPOLITAN COLLEGE

Dains Accountants snap up growing consultancy Dains Accountants has acquired Isosceles Finance – the fast-growing accounting outsourcing, HR consultancy, and interim financial director provider.

Founded in 2001, Isosceles has established a reputation as the provider of choice for high-growth and ambitious businesses, seeking outsourced accounting and HR support, delivered from a network of 4 offices across the UK. Dains say the value that Isosceles provides to its customers has enabled it to build an enviable roster of clients and demonstrate exceptional levels of organic growth.

Richard McNeilly, CEO of Dains, said: “Isosceles adds breadth to our service proposition and has developed a compelling offering for their clients. Managing director Mike O’Connell has built a strong team and I am delighted that he and Greg Eaton are remaining in the business as we work together to build it to even greater heights.”

Mike O’Connell said: “We are enormously excited to join the Dains’ group of businesses because of our shared hunger for client success. Our businesses are a

Breadth added: Richard McNeilly great fit and this development provides a platform for future growth and development of our fantastic team.”

Dains were advised by Sentio and Forward Corporate Finance (financial due diligence), and CMS (legal).

Isosceles were advised by Kreston Reeves (tax) and Russell Cooke (legal).

Plaque to honour Chamberlain The wartime Prime Minister Neville Chamberlain’s role is finally to be honoured by his home city of Birmingham over 80 years after his death.

A new Blue Plaque will recognise his political contribution to the city as a councillor, Lord Mayor and MP. It will be located at Edgbaston High School for Girls near where Chamberlain lived.

The new plaque will replace an existing one already located there that does not recognise his contribution to the city and only

refers to his time as Prime Minister.

Nicholas Milton, the author of a biography of Neville Chamberlain who has organised the plaque,

said: “This new plaque will honour Chamberlain’s legacy but in order for it to go ahead we need to raise £1.000. I hope businesses can contribute.”

The new plaque is supported

by John Cotton, the leader of Birmingham City Council, Edgbaston local councillor Deidre Alden, the Birmingham Civic Society, the Chamberlain Highbury Trust and Neville Chamberlain's grandson, James Lloyd. A crowd funding appeal has been launched at: www.spacehive.com/chamberlain.

Wesleyan grants tackle inequality Wesleyan, the specialist financial services mutual, has donated grants totalling £70,000 to eight organisations across the UK dedicated to reducing inequalities in their local communities.

The Wesleyan Foundation launched its Equality Grant earlier this year with the goal of helping to drive greater equality for disadvantaged groups within our society. Wesleyan can now announce that the eight successful charities receiving funding are: • DWRM (Doing What Really Matters) – Helping to reduce the over-representation of BAME individuals within the UK prison system.

• The Ledward Centre - An LGBTQ+ Community and Cultural Centre providing a safe, social, sober space for the LGBTQ+ communities in Brighton & Hove.

• Edgbaston Foundation - A project for young South Asian woman in Birmingham offering supportive workshops for young girls aged 11-16 years.

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• Young Enterprise (YE) – A charity that delivers critical skills and confidence programmes for young people with special educational needs and disabilities (SEND).

• Crohn’s & Colitis UK – The UK’s leading charity focusing on improving the lives of people affected by debilitating Inflammatory Bowel Disease (IBD).

• The Brilliant Club – A project to support 1,500 disadvantaged students in the West Midlands on their Scholars Programme.

• Oasis Community Housing (OCH) – A project focused on supporting women who are made homeless as a result of abuse.

• Project Mama – A charity providing specialist pregnancy and birth support to migrant women in Bristol.

• More patrons’ news – pages 40 and 41

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Pegasus Airlines takes off from Birmingham with low-cost fares Low-cost carrier Pegasus Airlines is to start flying three times a week between Birmingham Airport (BHX) and Istanbul’s Sabiha Gökçen International Airport (SAW), with one-way fares from Birmingham Airport starting at £39.99.

From 21 December, Pegasus will offer the flights on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays.

Pegasus serves more than 130 destinations in 49 countries across Asia, Africa and Europe from its SAW hub.

Nick Barton, CEO of BHX, said: “We are very pleased to welcome Pegasus Airlines into the BHX fold. Pegasus is a very impressive low-cost carrier whose commitment to sustainable longterm growth is matched by our own here at BHX. “I have no doubt these new services to SAW will be very popular with sunseekers, pilgrims, business travellers and people going to see family both in Turkey and across the vast array

of destinations offered by Pegasus’s strong onwards network covering Asia, Europe and Africa.”

Destinations served by Pegasus from its SAW hub include: Dubai, Abu Dhabi and Sharjah (UAE), Doha (Qatar), Sharm El Sheikh and Hurghada (Egypt), Beirut (Lebanon), Karachi

‘I have no doubt these new services to SAW will be very popular’ (Pakistan), Tbilisi and Batumi (Georgia), Baku (Azerbaijan), Yerevan (Armenia), Baghdad, Erbil and Basra (Iraq), Tehran and Tabriz (Iran), Medina and Riyadh (Saudi Arabia), Almaty, Astana and Shymkent (Kazakhstan), Bishkek (Kyrgyzstan), Amman (Jordan), Bahrain and Kuwait.

Agency founder joins investment platform Ethical Equity, the UK’s first dedicated and ethically compliant investment platform, has appointed Birmingham agency founder Tara Attfield-Tomes (pictured) to its governance board.

The pioneering platform, which connects underrepresented founders with like-minded impact investors, has strengthened its leadership ahead of its 2024 growth plans.

Tara joins Ethical Equity’s Governance Board to help set the organisation’s strategic direction, build community relationships, and support the wider team with its growth ambitions.

Having founded Birmingham-based PR agency, EAST VILLAGE, Ethical Equity say that Tara has demonstrated a profound understanding of the intricacies of impactdriven initiatives and their significance in driving positive change.

For the past 10 years, EAST VILLAGE. has built a reputation as a pioneering PR agency, with purpose at its core.

In line with their shared commitment to inclusivity, Ethical Equity and EAST VILLAGE. will launch a ground-breaking pilot program in January 2024. This initiative aims to empower a more diverse array of investors, particularly from underrepresented communities, with a target of reaching 1,000 new Angel Investors by the end of 2024.

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Pegasus is one of the fastest-growing airlines post-pandemic having fully recovered its operating capacity and profitability during 2022.

It is actively seeking to decarbonise its operations in line with its commitment to IATA’s Net Zero by 2050 pledge and global imperatives to protect the planet.

Investing in fuel-efficient, new generation aircraft is a significant part of Pegasus’ sustainability strategy, which positions the airline as having one of the most modern fleets in Europe, with an average age of 4.6 years as of September 2023.

These ambitions are mirrored by BHX, which is aiming to have become a carbon net zero airport by 2033 by implementing low-carbon alternatives into its operation.

• Business travel news – page 68

Communications expert strengthens Liquid board International integrated communications agency Liquid has strengthened its board with the appointment of Andy West as nonexecutive director.

In his new role, Andy, who has over 30 years of communications experience, will provide Liquid with strategic guidance and support to help achieve its international growth ambitions.

Andy’s previous experience includes positions at a number of tech communications consultancies across the globe, where he worked with colleagues and clients in Europe, North America, the Middle East, Africa and Australia.

Andy said: “I’m passionate about supporting communications agencies to fulfil their potential and achieve high performance business outcomes, and have been doing so for many years, so I look forward to

Perfect fit: Andy West

applying this experience at Liquid.”

Liquid CEO, Elisabeth LewisJones, added: “It’s great to be welcoming Andy to the team – his values and personality make him the perfect fit for Liquid.

“We’re confident that he will play a big role as the business continues to grow from strength to strength.”

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CBSO names ex-BBC boss as new chair The former director general of the BBC Tony Hall (Lord Hall of Birkenhead) has been appointed chair of the City of Birmingham Symphony Orchestra (CBSO).

He succeeds David Burbidge, who stands down after completing his successful five-year term of office.

Tony Hall has held numerous executive and nonexecutive roles in the sector, including director general of the BBC (2013-2020), chief executive of the Royal Opera House (2001-2013), and managing director of BBC news and current affairs (1989-2001).

He is chairman of the social work charity Frontline and is a crossbench member of the House of Lords, sitting on the communications and digital committee.

Lord Hall was appointed Commander of the Order of the British Empire (CBE) in the 2006 New Year Honours for services to Opera and Ballet.

He says: “I am thrilled to be taking on the role of chair of the CBSO. It’s an amazing world-class orchestra doing incredible work in a city I’ve known since I was at school there.

“I’ve always believed that everyone should have access to the best - and I can see that’s what motivates the CBSO too. The school set-up in partnership with Shireland Collegiate Academy in Sandwell shows that the orchestra is doing truly groundbreaking work.

“I know - together - there’s so much more we can do to bring the best music to everyone in Birmingham, the West Midlands and beyond.”

During David Burbidge’s time as chair, the CBSO has maintained its position as an internationally celebrated symphony orchestra at home in Birmingham. As well as

sustaining a wide-ranging programme of concerts at Birmingham’s Symphony Hall and far-reaching learning and participation activities, 2023 has marked the opening of the Shireland CBSO Academy, the first free, nonselective state school in Britain to be established in partnership with a professional orchestra.

David Burbidge said: “It has been a privilege to have been chair of the CBSO for five years. I have seen many wonderful concerts performed by our world-class orchestra in Birmingham and elsewhere in the UK, as well as joining the orchestra on several overseas tours including trips to Carnegie Hall and the Berlin Philharmonie.

“I have also seen the superb work bringing music into the lives of thousands of young people and we have now opened the ground-breaking Shireland CBSO Academy in the Black Country.

“Despite the problems of Covid, I leave the orchestra in good shape for the challenges and opportunities ahead and in very good hands under the leadership of our new CEO Emma Stenning and my immensely experienced successor, Tony Hall.”

• More arts news – see page 83

Best music: Tony Hall

Tapping into Birmingham’s potential

By Dan Harrison The leader of Birmingham City Council has called for a collective effort to unleash the “untapped potential” in some of Birmingham’s communities.

Councillor John Cotton was part of a guest panel at the launch of the 2023 Birmingham Economic Review, hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and the University of Birmingham.

Cllr Cotton addressed a host of subjects including the untapped potential in deprived areas of the city, the positive sentiment from last summer’s Commonwealth Games and the well-documented financial problems facing Birmingham City Council. On the socio-economic challenges facing some parts of Birmingham, such as high unemployment and fuel poverty, Cllr Cotton said: “I think there’s a lot of untapped potential in our city.

“Our collective mission is to link the communities with the growth, the investment and the opportunities that are coming into Birmingham and the wider West Midlands. Addressing these

inequalities is essential to unleashing the potential of the city.”

Cllr Cotton said the council, the businesses or the community could not fix it on their own. “We have to work collectively,” he added.

“We have to look at the investment that is coming into Birmingham to start to fix some of those socio-economic challenges.”

Addressing the financial challenges facing the city council following the issuing of a Section 114 order in September, Cllr Cotton said: “Of

course, there are issues we’re having to address as a council that are specific to Birmingham. But it is also important to bear in mind that this is happening in the wider context of a perfect storm taking place right across Britain at the moment.

“We’ve seen effectively a 40 per cent cut in the finance available to local government over the last decade. Local authorities are also dealing with all the things businesses are – rising costs, rising inflation and additional demand for services.”

Addressing the appointment of commissioners to help tackle the financial crisis, Cllr Cotton added: “We’ve got some of the best minds in local government here to help us address those issues.”

Cllr Cotton was joined on the panel by Schumacher Packaging managing director Mike Owens, KPMG’s Birmingham office senior partner Andy Bostock and University of Birmingham’s Professor of Regional Economic Development Anne Green.

Panel personalities (left to right): Mike Owens, immediate past Chamber president Deb Leary, Andy Bostock, Professor Anne Green and Cllr John Cotton

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BUSINESS NEWS

Tunnel vision: The HS2 tunnel exhibit at Thinktank

Exciting stage: Mike Cooper

Arriva Group announce sale Arriva Group, which operates trains through Birmingham, has been sold by Deutsche Bhan (DB) to investment company I Squared.

The sale includes all of its operating businesses across 10 European markets, to I Squared, a leading global infrastructure investment manager. The transaction is expected to complete in 2024 and will support a shift to greener transport and cleaner cities across Europe.

DB say they will now be able to undertake additional growth in rail transport in Germany and allow it to focus its resources on its core business.

As part of DB’s Strong Rail Group strategy, the company announced that it intended to sell Arriva to enable additional growth in rail transport in Germany and allow it to focus its resources on its core business.

Mike Cooper, CEO of Arriva Group, said: “We want to see a future where people choose to leave their car at home, a future with less traffic congestion and cleaner air.

“This transaction marks an exciting next stage for us, and will deliver significant benefits for our colleagues, our passengers and the many Passenger Transport Authorities we partner with across Europe, enabling us to play our role in delivering a better future. I Squared has an established track record of supporting companies which provide essential services, and of investing in the energy transition. We are delighted that they have committed to provide Arriva with long-term capital for investment in innovation across our services, our assets, and our people.

“We’re confident that Arriva and I Squared together can play a vital role in delivering innovative and sustainable public transport offerings across Europe.”

• More 1813 Club member news on pages 42 and 43

HS2 exhibition space opens at Thinktank A new exhibition that showcases the hugely ambitious tunnels being constructed as part of the new HS2 line has been unveiled at Birmingham’s award-winning science museum, Thinktank.

The temporary exhibit, curated

by HS2’s construction partner in the West Midlands Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), explores the history and technological advances in tunnelling, alongside the story of HS2’s construction. It is designed to help young people understand the engineering complexity of building a new high-speed railway.

Thinktank is directly opposite the site where HS2’s flagship Curzon Street Station will be built, which means visitors can get a glimpse of the construction works underway to build the viaducts that will carry the new high-speed trains into the station.

The gallery space, which is open until 12 January 2024, includes a replica model of Dorothy, the giant 2,000 tonne boring machine used

to excavate the Warwickshire tunnels that form part of the HS2 network. It is accompanied by a range of interesting and fun facts about HS2’s tunnelling programme, with the aim of inspiring the next generation of budding engineers.

‘We are excited to have the tunnel boring model on display’ Shilpi Akbar, head of stakeholder and Communities at Balfour Beatty VINCI, said:“This fascinating exhibition, featuring our model tunnel boring machine, is a great opportunity to showcase to the region how we’re helping to deliver HS2 right here in the Midlands.

“Visitors can learn about how we’ve tunnelled underneath ancient woodland in Warwickshire, and the three-and-a-half-mile tunnel currently underway between Water Orton and Washwood Heath in

Birmingham. By bringing this highly skilled and innovative work to new audiences, we hope it inspires the next generation of tunnellers and engineers.”

BBV will join forces with Thinktank to deliver interactive STEM workshops as part of the exhibit’s wider programme. The sessions will involve local schools, giving pupils the opportunity to learn more about the HS2 project, as well as career pathways within the industry.

Laurence Butler, museum manager, Thinktank, said: “We are excited to have the tunnel boring model on display to enable visitors to Thinktank to learn about how the tunnels are being created for the HS2 line between Birmingham and London. This exhibit will highlight a new range of STEM careers as options for the future as well as show how modern technology and engineering allow a tunnel to be bored, reinforced and made ready for use.”

MP supports skills programme MP Jess Phillips visited HS2’s headquarters to show support for the project’s Young Adults programme, which upskills women who are out of work so they can begin new careers in construction.

HS2 delivers the Young Adults programme in partnership with Women into Construction, an independent not-for-profit organisation. Women aged 18-30, who are unemployed and live locally, qualify for the scheme, which combines work experience, mentoring and construction safety training.

The Labour MP for Yardley, a passionate equalities campaigner, joined the final session of the programme to inspire the young women ahead of their next career move.

Over 9,000 people in the West Midlands are helping to build HS2, and investment in bespoke training programmes, like the Young Adults scheme, has helped hundreds of local people who were out of work to launch new careers. Seventynine per cent of candidates who graduated from the Young Adults programme over the last four years secured employment or progressed

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Stronger country: MP Jess Phillips with young women heading into a career in construction

into further education or training.

Mrs Phillips encouraged this year’s graduates to seize the opportunities in front of them.

She said: “The more we can encourage women and girls to seize opportunities, follow their dreams and build our future, the stronger our country will be for all of us.”

Amrutha Puthumana Meleppattu, who lives in Mrs Phillips’s Yardley constituency, is one of 15 women taking part in this year’s programme. Originally from Kerala, Amrutha joined the Young Adults scheme as she was struggling to find work in the UK.

Amrutha said: “Joining the Young Adults programme has given me a real confidence boost.

“Securing work experience with HS2’s engineering team, and making new connections in the industry, is exactly what I needed to take my career forward.”

Amelia Morris from Stourbridge had also worked in construction before, but she chose to leave the industry as she didn’t feel women were treated equally.

Amelia said: “This placement opportunity with HS2 has completely re-ignited my passion and reaffirms why I got into the construction industry in the first place.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Helping employees through loss The UK-wide baby loss charity, Sands, are helping employers to support their colleagues who have lost a baby.

Sands has developed specialist Bereavement in the Workplace training which is designed to help organisations fully understand the impact of pregnancy and baby loss, and how to support colleagues in professional settings. It also helps them to implement best practice and reflect on their people wellbeing policies.

Saranne Moreno, partnerships development lead at Sands, said “It’s not always easy to know what to say or how to support a colleague after baby loss. However, with adequate training and support, workplaces can flourish into supportive environments, helping colleagues feel supported and valued at work, and in turn, supporting employee retention.

The right support can positively impact their mental and physical health, and most importantly, allow bereaved parents to have a safe and supportive space to grieve.”

Fourth term for Colmore BID Birmingham’s Colmore BID has been successful in its BID4 Business Plan proposal for 2024 to 2029, having won with 98 per cent yes votes.

Colmore BID’s fourth term will commence on 1 April 2024 and will enable the BID to deliver its ambitious vision for the area, with local businesses investing over £7.5m over five years. Plans include the redevelopment of Livery Street Subway, the replanting of Colmore Square to add biodiversity to the area, and a city-wide immersive light festival to drive footfall and trade to Birmingham.

Nicola Fleet-Milne, chair of the Colmore BID board said: “We are delighted to have, yet again, achieved such resounding support from our levy payers. This ‘yes’ vote will allow us to continue our success and deliver on our goals within the district and the broader city.”

Alex Nicholson-Evans joins the BID two days a week as city curator and Claire Lishman also joins the BID on a part-time basis as media and PR consultant.

A survey of bereaved families carried out by Sands found that while almost half (48 per cent) of people who were bereaved in the past three years felt supported in the workplace on returning to work, more than half weren’t getting the support they needed, Sands delivers training and specialist guidance to help employers to navigate employment laws, understand and implement best practice, and to help employers and colleagues to get it right when it comes to supporting bereaved parents.

Those who receive training also have access to consultancy services and Sands’ support services, including their free national helpline, which is available to anyone who needs support.

Following a grant from the Department of Health and Social Care, Sands can offer free training to small and medium sized business.

Not easy: Saranne Moreno

For more information visit Sands Training website

Major dance production comes to Birmingham Two of the great South Asian dancers of their respective generations, Aakash Odedra and Aditi Mangaldas, are bringing their new production Mehek to Birmingham Hippodrome on Thursday, 24 April.

In Mehek, Kathak contemporary dancers, Aakash Odedra and Aditi Mangaldas tell unspoken and sometimes taboo love stories. The production is an exploration of the human heart, its desires, courage and resilience. Centred around an older woman and a younger man, the dance delves deep into the different ways that love can be.

Mehek marks the return to the stage of Aakash Odedra following his critically-acclaimed Samsara in 2022 and is the first duet of Aditi Mangaldas’ illustrious 50-year career.

Derived from the Hindi word for fragrance, the title Mehek alludes to the enduring power of memory and the essence of love itself. The stage becomes a place where rhythmic tales of desire unfold, entwined with elements of nature.

Tina Tzoka’s set of mirrors, evoking the expansive waters of the sea, reflect the duality of the story - the tranquil surface and the tumultuous waves beneath.

The dance reveals that love is not only a profound connection and exploration with another but also a personal journey within the self.

Composer Nicki Wells, a frequent collaborator of Odera and Mangaldas, has created a powerful soundscore, sometimes epic, sometimes intimate and

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intensely beautiful. Wells sings live on stage with three Indian percussionists and vocalists.

As part of the creative process for Mehek, Aakash with dramaturg Karthika Naïr and musician Hiren Chate worked with 450 older people from communities across Leicester. Workshop participants told their personal stories and their memories of life and love, and some of those stories have been incorporated into the work.

The wider Mehek Live project, run in partnership with Moving Together, culminates in a symposium at Sadler’s Wells on 12 April as part of the Elixir Festival.

Tickets are available at birminghamhippodrome.com or by calling 0844 338 5000

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ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Milestone met with renewable investment has become one of the largest family-run packaging companies in Europe.

At the start of the anniversary year, company boss Björn Schumacher, who runs the company in the third generation with his brother Hendrik, explained: “Along our anniversary motto ‘Unboxing the Future of Packaging’, we are pursuing clear goals for the future. We see considerable potential to make packaging even more climate-friendly across the entire value chain. That’s why we want to further reduce the proportion of plastics in packaging across all sectors and replace it sensibly with the natural raw material paper.” he Schumacher Packaging Group, one of Europe’s largest manufacturers of customised packaging made of corrugated and solid board (www.schumacher-packaging.com), successfully continued its dynamic growth course in 2022.

This year, the company celebrates its 75th anniversary and is investing more in sustainability: the focus is on expanding renewable energies and reducing plastics in packaging by using natural raw materials.

By 2025, Schumacher Packaging plans to invest around €700m in the expansion of existing plants and the construction of new ones.

For 2023, however, the focus is on sustainability. This is because the packaging specialist is pursuing the ambitious goal of climate-neutral production by 2035 and is therefore relying on the most modern, efficient and environmentally friendly technologies.

Around €45m is being invested in the construction of solar power plants, and €10-20m is earmarked for the expansion of wind energy.

Currently, a solar park is under construction at the German site in Forchheim, and two more parks are being built in Poland.

The construction of five more solar power plants in Germany and Poland is planned for 2023 and 2024. The total output of all photovoltaic plants will be around 12 GW/h.

T

Raw material supply and security of supply still important

To achieve this, the family-owned company is leading the way in the industry: it provides information, works on innovations and seeks dialogue with stakeholders. The management assumes that more than one fifth of the plastic packaging currently used can be replaced by paper-based solutions. By using plastic-free, biobased barrier coatings, packaging with protective functions can be produced that can be fully recycled. Plastics can thus be completely replaced - with the greatest potential in the food industry.

Replacing plastics sensibly

Corrugated and solid board as the basis for a sustainable circular economy

With its innovative solutions made of corrugated and solid board, Schumacher Packaging has grown continuously over the past 75 years and

Sustainability is of great importance to Schumacher Packaging’s business. “The biggest advantage of paper-based packaging is that it is

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completely natural. They are not waste, can be returned to the material cycle 100 per cent or decompose in nature within a short time without leaving any residues. Currently, more than 85 per cent of corrugated and solid board packaging is recycled – this means that it is reprocessed into packaging after use. Unlike plastic-based reusable systems, no CO2 is emitted during return transport and cleaning,” said Björn Schumacher. “We exploit this potential by leading the way and constantly developing new industryspecific and sustainable products. In this way, we can offer long-term security of supply and be a reliable partner - now and in the future.”

Despite the difficult economic situation due to the Ukraine war and the sharp rise in energy prices, Schumacher Packaging 2022 managed to grow.

The packaging manufacturer reacted flexibly and quickly in the crisis year and was thus able to guarantee supplies to its customers. Strategic decisions contributed to this, such as the acquisition of the Kaierde cartonboard mill, the majority stake in the Italian corrugated base paper manufacturer Cartiere Modesto Cardella SpA and the acquisition of the Leipzig Land GmbH cartonboard mill.

“The consistent expansion of our production and processing capacities represents an important contribution to securing the market's supply situation in the future and is part of our strategy for the future,” said managing director Hendrik Schumacher.

For more details contact Naomi Harvey at Schumacher Packaging sales_bir@schumacher-packaging.com

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters Honour for Bollywood star Preity G Zinta - one of the most popular and recognisable stars of Indian cinema – learned that she is to receive an honorary doctorate from Birmingham City University (BCU) during a visit to the West Midlands for the region’s Diwali celebrations.

The 48-year-old award is in recognition of her contribution to Bollywood and the business world. It is understood the honorary degree will be formally presented to her by BCU in India during 2024.

Ms Zinta joined Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, and chair of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), for a weekend of exciting events in conjunction with the Consulate General of India.

The events included a starstudded gala dinner at Millennium Point and a cultural programme at Birmingham Town Hall.

The mayor said: "I am absolutely delighted to welcome Preity G Zinta to Birmingham and our vibrant region. Her forthcoming honorary doctorate from BCU is a testament to her remarkable contributions to both Bollywood and her philanthropic endeavours.”

Ms Zinta said: “It’s a tremendous privilege to be receiving this honorary doctorate from BCU especially given its strengths in business and media that chime so well with my own career.”

Professor David Mba, vicechancellor of BCU, said: "We were thrilled to extend a warm welcome to Preity Zinta into the Birmingham City University family. Preity’s exceptional contributions to the global stage of filmmaking are truly inspiring.

This was an exceptional moment for our dedicated staff, aspiring students, and for the dynamic city of Birmingham and the wider West Midlands region.”

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

Aston University opens city centre headquarters Aston University celebrated the official opening of its new Birmingham city centre headquarters and the launch of its 2030 strategy at a reception at John Cadbury House.

The event, hosted by the university’s vice-chancellor and chief executive, Professor Aleks Subic, brought together more than 70 business leaders and other senior figures from across the city and region including guest speaker Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands.

The acquisition of the new HQ building at 190 Corporation Street, named after the founder of the Cadbury business and distinguished Birmingham business leader, is a key part of Aston University’s 2030 strategy, focused on creating an urban university that is integrated within the city centre and which drives city regeneration.

It houses the university’s business and community engagement and alumni relations and development teams, along with a hub for business engagement, enterprise creation and innovation capacity-building.

Visionary (left to right): Andy Street, Dame Yve Buckland (Aston University pro vice-chancellor) and Professor Aleks Subic

The building was refurbished with financial support from the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), which contributed £9.5m to support the renovation of the historic building.

Guests at the reception had the opportunity to hear about the university’s vision and ambitions for the years ahead, including plans to establish a world-class innovation district – the new Birmingham Innovation Quarter (B-IQ) – in partnership with Birmingham City Council and Bruntwood SciTech, to

evolve as an innovation ecosystem focused on science, technology and enterprise.

Andy Street said: “This stunning location has been beautifully refurbished with the support of the West Midlands Combined Authority.

“John Cadbury House is a testament to the positive role Aston University has played in enriching our city and region.

“This tremendous urban university shares our ambition to make the West Midlands a better place for all.”

BCU students star at awards Students from Birmingham City University and the University of Warwick took six of the 11 main honours at the Midlands Media Students’ Awards while the coveted accolade of Student of the Year went to Nicholas Gascoyne from Leicester’s De Montfort University (DMU).

The awards, sponsored by Amazon UK Services Ltd and organised by Birmingham Press Club, were hosted

Winner: Nicholas Gascoyne (right) from Leicester’s De Montfort University (DMU) with Press Club president Bob Warman

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by ITV Central journalist Lewis Warner and BBC Asian Network presenter Amber Sandhu – both former students at universities in the Midlands.

Nicholas submitted work completed during his last year at DMU, where he gained a first-class degree in journalism and politics – and an award for his magazine final year project which won him the DMU annual magazine cover competition.

There was a “double” for BCU student Kirsty Card, now a Daily Star video news reporter. She won the Digital Journalist and Data and Investigations categories. There was also a “double” for Shing Hei Yip from Nottingham Trent University, who won Social Media Video of the Year category, while his portfolio depicting “A Year in Nottingham” gave him the edge in the photography category.

The three gold awards for University of Warwick students went to Eden Fall-Bailey (news); Matthew Rendell (broadcasting, audio) and Laura Howard (sport).

In a message to students, Neil Williams, Amazon public relations manager, said: “The qualities you’ve demonstrated by entering these awards – hard work, commitment, dedication to your trade – will be essential characteristics to carry with you during your career.”

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CHAMBER PATRONS Increasing demand: StrEAT Kitchen at the NEC

NEC launches street food offer NEC Birmingham has launched a new street food offering as their live events calendar gears up.

Delivered by leading live events caterer Amadeus, the team has unveiled a new StrEAT Kitchen in Hall 3 at the venue, ensuring innovations and trends remain at the core of their food and beverage approach.

The new StrEAT Kitchen builds on the huge success of previous installations in the NEC’s Piazza, as well as mobile units at the venue, with the concept aiming to capture the theatre and excitement of street food in an exhibition setting.

Since StrEAT’s launch in 2019, Amadeus has seen increased demand for street food, with its themed, authentic stalls proving a continued hit with event goers.

Kane Bridgman, Amadeus NEC general manager, said: “Our latest StrEAT Kitchen at the NEC is an ambitious step where we are

amalgamating street and festival cuisines into a comprehensive outlet.

“The concept allows us to change and adapt our menus to cater for the diverse customer profiles we see attending shows at the NEC. The flexibility in its menu and concept ensures a continuous flow of novel offerings, driven by trends and consumer demands.”

Amadeus delivers catering solutions to venues and organisers who want to provide visitors with a unique and memorable food experience. They deliver exciting catering solutions to over four million visitors per year at NEC Group venues including the NEC, ICC, Vox Conference Venue and Birmingham’s two live music arenas, Utilita Arena Birmingham and Resorts World Arena.

Linda Ritchie, general manager at the NEC, added: “The new StrEAT Kitchen is another example of how we’re continually innovating to

provide the best possible offerings for our customers.

“Amadeus has done a fantastic job in bringing the concept to life in a vibrant and exciting way, and we know our customers will really value the increased creativity, choice and flexibility as we look to continually innovate with our venue’s F&B offering.”

The culinary development team is a vital part of Amadeus’ innovation strategy. Their exhaustive study tours, ideation sessions, and engagement with senior chefs lead to breakthrough concepts such as the StrEAT Kitchen. Amadeus promises numerous fresh concepts and a renewed focus on modern offerings that will captivate NEC Birmingham visitors.

To find out more about Amadeus’ ability to deliver innovative retail concepts, visit amadeusfood.co.uk

December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 41

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members

Premier Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 0121 274 3236

Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Freight firm in acquisition Europe-wide freight forwarders Knight Star Freight Limited have been acquired by Simpex Express.

The ever-expanding Simpex group, who are celebrating 14 years, welcomed the company with all activities going forward under the Simpex name.

Knight Star Freight was founded by Tim Fisher in 1989 providing Europe-wide road freight services coupled with a first class, focused, customer service.

Supported by his long-standing colleagues June and Claudine, they have been with the business for over 20 years and have seen the

company evolve, initially specialising in the French market but more recently into customs clearance post-Brexit.

‘From the moment I met Tim, I knew that we were on the same page’ Managing director Tim said: “In spending time with the Simpex team this year, I quickly saw how their customer values matched our own, and how they were the perfect fit to acquire Knight Star Freight.

New brand: Harj Millington (left) and Ruth Pipkin

Business growth fuels brand refresh Birmingham-based PR and marketing consultancy Rewired has unveiled a new brand identity following a period of sustained growth, fuelled by the expansion of both its consumer and business-to-business client base.

The agency, which celebrates its 15th anniversary this year, has expanded its client portfolio, welcoming brands including European law firm Fieldfisher, hospitality management company Switch and national charity Children with Cancer UK. Commercial director Harj Millington said: “The last 18 months have seen a period of significant growth for Rewired. Building on our core areas of expertise, we’ve successfully expanded our B2B portfolio into the professional services market and welcomed new consumer clients across the education and third sectors, alongside our existing work for leading brands including The Entertainer, Heal’s, England and Wales Cricket Board, Derbion, Mondelez International, Unity Trust Bank and Firethorn Trust.”

Managing director Ruth Pipkin added: “Reaching our 15-year milestone has really given us the opportunity to focus on how we can continue to provide the very best service and consultancy to our clients across a growing and complementary portfolio of sectors. Our new brand represents both the evolution of Rewired and the ambition we have for the next phase of our growth, as we continue to build and invest in our services for clients.”

42 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

“I have a great deal of pride in what’s been created here, and it was important to me that this was protected when looking to retire. I have every faith that our customers will remain in good hands at Simpex.”

Simon Beechener , managing director of Simpex Express Limite, said: “From the moment I met Tim, I knew that we were on the same page and it’s exciting to see the businesses brought together.

“I feel we are well-positioned to integrate Knight Star Freight's business seamlessly and this strategic move not only broadens

Shake on it: Tim Fisher (left) and Simon Beechener

Simpex’s capabilities, but it also opens opportunities to introduce Knight Star’s clients to our wellknown express services.”

Freeths boosts real estate team National law firm Freeths has bolstered its real estate offering with the appointment of Partner Emily Danson.

Emily joins from Roythornes and will head up Freeths’ housebuilding sector offering in the West Midlands.

Emily has over 10 years’ experience focusing on instant land transactions for national and regional housebuilders, also working in the wider “living” sector such as care home development and social housing.

She has a strong reputation in the West Midlands and is often

praised by her clients for her client service, pragmatism and commerciality.

Joining together with Emily is Sarah Ward, who deals with the plot sales for various clients including Tilia Homes, Piper Homes and Macc Group.

Patrick Adie, national head of housebuilding and strategic land at Freeths, said: “These key hires will help further grow the team across the country, on the back of other recent partner hires in other offices such as Sheffield and Milton Keynes.”

Welcome: Emily Danson and Patrick Adie

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Law firm hits the ice with sponsorship deal Full-service law firm Shakespeare Martineau is to sponsor Solihull Barons ice hockey club for the 2023/24 season.

Initially formed in 1965, the community-owned Barons currently compete in Northern Division One and regularly hold charity games to raise money for Birmingham Children’s Hospital.

Shakespeare Martineau’s trainee conveyancing executive Philip Mulcahy has been a strong presence in the squad’s forward line since joining the club in 2017/18.

To celebrate the partnership, head of Shakespeare Martineau’s Solihull hub Andrew Smith, business development partner Michael Cracknell and new build sales manager Sarah Parker attended the Barons’ first training session of the season, viewing their newly-refurbished changing rooms and hearing from the club’s chairman about their community work.

Andrew said: “As a firm, we are always on the lookout for opportunities to make a positive difference in everything we do, and investing in the local communities we work within is part and parcel of our B Corporation accreditation.

“Community assets like the Solihull Barons ice hockey club not

Navigating key challenges

Friendly rivals: Solihull Barons’ Philip Mulcahy (left) with Peter Cech, the former Chelsea and Arsenal goalkeeper who is now goaltender for Oxford City Stars after the match between to the two clubs which ended in a 2-2 draw

only works to raise essential funds for local charities, but it also provides talented individuals the chance to express themselves, including our very own Philip Mulcahy in our Solihull sales team.

“We’re proud of our people’s individuality and the interests that make them unique, and our commitment to empowering our people and contributing positively

to the local community made it a no-brainer to support the club this season.

“The team got off to a flying start to the season, winning all but one of their fixtures, and with season tickets available to all our people to bring clients and colleagues along to watch, we look forward to continuing to support them rinkside in their upcoming fixtures.”

Top ranking for Clarke Willmott The Birmingham office of national law firm Clarke particularly following our equally impressive Legal 500 Willmott LLP has again been recognised in the annual results earlier this month.

Chambers and Partners Guide.

“To rank in 26 specialist practice areas with an The office retained a Band 2 ranking for its family incredible 66 of our people receiving recommendations and matrimonial offering, together with three team is a great achievement and strongly indicates the members achieving individual rankings - Rayner Grice breadth and depth of our service offering. retains Band 1 while Caroline Young retains “We were particularly pleased with the excellent Band 1 and Adam Maguire improves testimonials from our clients who are quoted in the guide and can attest, first hand, to the work we do from “up and coming” to Band 3. and the way we look after them. Top tier ratings are Elsewhere, personal injury expert a great recognition of quality and we take great partner Philip Edwards also retains pride in achieving good results both in terms of his Band 1 rating. our practice areas and our individual lawyers, who Nationally, the firm is ranked in are so talented and hard-working.”

26 areas across their seven offices, Chambers and Partners differentiates the best with five practice areas achieving legal talent by identifying and ranking law firms the top Band 1 ranking. and lawyers globally.

Clarke Willmott’s lawyers have Clarke Willmott LLP is a national law firm with been recognised in 66 individual seven offices across the country in rankings with 11 Band 1 rankings.

Birmingham, Bristol, Cardiff, London, The firm’s national social Manchester, Southampton and housing team also retained Taunton. This year the firm is its Band 3 status. celebrating its 135th Clarke Willmott CEO anniversary.

Peter Swinburn, said: “We are delighted with For more information visit this year’s Chambers Recognition of quality: Peter Swinburn www.clarkewillmott.com and Partners rankings,

Trowers & Hamlins’ Birmingham office has launched a new campaign – ‘Growth Through Change’ – to help firms across the West Midlands navigate and benefit from significant changes taking place across the region’s business landscape.

The six-month campaign comprises a series of events and commentary that will highlight how business leaders can address key challenges such as the current macroeconomic environment and embrace opportunities such as fast-moving technological change and the move towards Net-Zero.

The recent Business Barometer survey, carried out for Lloyds Bank Commercial Banking, found that business confidence in the West Midlands fell six points during September 2023, to 36 per cent.

Despite this drop in confidence, with its rich industrial legacy and diverse economic base, the West Midlands is one of the leading economic zones in the UK. Research has shown that the region is growing at a faster rate than Greater London and Manchester.

With one of the UK’s youngest populations, strong creative and digital growth industries, five (main) universities with a student population of 77,000, there are strong indications that Birmingham is well placed to weather current economic headwinds and consolidate its place at the leading edge of the UK economy.

Commenting on the Growth Through Change launch, Yetunde Dania, head of Trowers’ Birmingham office, said: “While the West Midlands business community is currently navigating significant change, we know from history that businesses in the region are tenacious and resilient.

“The changes we’re seeing across so many areas of the economy, not least of all in our gig-economy and digital sectors, offer real hope for the region and this is a real chance to grasp the potential that the new opportunities are bringing.”

The Growth Through Change campaign can be followed by checking the news and insights page on the Trowers & Hamlins website.

December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 43

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade

T: 0121 725 8994 E: ibh@birmingham-chamber.com

Honour and privilege: Professor Aleks Subic

Vice-chancellor to lead global network Professor Aleks Subic, vice-chancellor and chief executive of Aston University, has been appointed by the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils to lead a new University Research Leadership Forum (URLF) initiative to create an international network of universities committed to place-based innovation.

The Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils (GFCC) is a global multi-stakeholder membership organisation founded in 2010 with a footprint spanning more than 30 nations.

The GFCC is committed to disseminating best practices to accelerate productivity, growth, and prosperity for countries, regions, and cities through high-level networking and events, in-depth conversations, advice, and education.

Starting in 2024, the URLF will promote study visits and workshops and develop case studies focused on understanding the critical enablers of university-anchored innovation ecosystems.

This new phase, unveiling the secrets of place-based innovation, will build on the forum's achievements and relationships with various stakeholders developed over the years to systematise best practices and experiences that can be applied to other environments.

Deborah L Wince-Smith, president of the Global Federation of Competitiveness Councils, said: “We're pleased to count on Professor Subic as the URLF's new co-chair.

He has done outstanding work leading Aston University towards its 2030 vision, which proposes a transformational impact on Birmingham's people, students, businesses and communities.”

Professor Subic said: “It is my honour and privilege to be appointed by the GFCC to lead the global URLF and co-chair the global alliance of innovation universities that drive place-based innovation in their respective regions, serving as catalysts of socio-economic transformation and placemaking.”

44 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Promoting the region: Chamber representatives in London

Chamber makes the case for the region Representatives from the Chamber’s international divisions were out in force promoting the region at the House of Lords during the Department for Business and Trade’s International Trade Week.

Patrons and committee members from the Global and Transatlantic Chambers attended the launch of the British Chambers of Commerce’s (BCC) trade manifesto.

It was opened by BCC director general Shevaun Haviland and guest speakers included Minister for the Department for Business and Trade Nigel Huddleston and Shadow Minister for Exports Afzal Khan.

The delegation – led by international director Mandy Haque and international partnerships manager Sian Timmins – included: • Deb Leary, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce president and CEO of Global Chamber patron Forensic Pathways • Mark Smith, Global Chamber president and executive director of business engagement at Aston University

• Shaun Gray, European managing director of Global patron Ginho Group and president of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce • Jack Keeling, US recruitment specialist at Transatlantic Chamber patron Beyond the Book • Peter Edwards of Transatlantic Chamber patron Kammac • Andy Dawson, co-founder and director of Curium Solutions, the GBCC patron with bases in Birmingham and Florida • Warwick Wakefield, director of customer experience at Transatlantic patron Flexeserve • Declan Cushley, head of London Office of law firm Browne Jacobson • Janie Frampton, vice president of the Global Chamber and CEO of Sports Officials Consultancy.

The group then visited the US Embassy, where members who have US connections discussed challenges, objectives and activities with commercial counsellor Brenda VanHorn.

Mandy moves to new role Mandy Haque (pictured), Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s international director, is leaving the organisation after five years to take up a role with BAE Systems.

Mandy joined the Chamber from Birmingham Airport in December, 2018. In her five years with the Chamber, she has overseen the launch of the Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce and its predecessor the Greater Birmingham Commonwealth Chamber, the hosting of the annual Global Trade Conference and helped forge partnerships with a host of Embassies, High

Commissions and overseas trade bodies.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the GBCC, said: “Mandy has made a huge impact on the development and growth of the international directorate and strategic leadership of the Chamber during her five years in the role. Her professionalism and talents for building partnerships and supporting her colleagues will be greatly missed.

“While we are sorry to see her go, I am delighted for her that she is heading on to a fantastic opportunity with a globally renowned business.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE Global Chamber Patrons

TRANSATLANTIC CHAMBER PATRONS

Divisions host joint AGMs The Greater Birmingham Global and Transatlantic Chambers of Commerce both welcomed new members to their committees at a joint annual general meeting.

The two international divisions of Greater Birmingham Chambers held their AGMs at the Birmingham offices of Ramboll, the civil engineering company based on Cornwall Street.

At the meeting, Global Chamber president Mark Smith and Transatlantic Chamber president James Tait reflected on the progress of their respective divisions over the past 12 months – and welcomed new members to their committees.

Joining the Global Chamber committee is Fabienne Bailey, director for Business Growth & Transformation at AIM Qualifications and Assessment Group; Shaun Gray, European managing director of Ginho Group and president of Burton & District Chamber of Commerce; Nick Hobbis, managing director at Vaughtons and Deepak Pathak, senior innovation and growth specialist at Innovate UK Edge.

The Transatlantic Chamber committee welcomed one new member - Andrea Edwards, director of global relations and research at University of Birmingham.

Mark Smith and James Tait also presented President’s Awards to members of their

respective divisions for their achievements over the past 12 months.

Mark Smith presented the Global Chamber President’s Award to Shaun Gray, European managing director of Ginho Group, a global specialist in manufacturing components for vehicles related in the automotive industry.

Over the past year, Shaun led the launch of the company’s new Mexican operation, to tap into the growth of the country’s thriving automotive sector.

James Tait’s Transatlantic President’s Award went to Jamie Joyce, global CEO of Flexeserve, the leading hot holding manufacturer and hot food to go specialist, who this year established a headquarters in Dallas, Texas.

Sian Timmins, the GBCC’s international partnerships manager, said: “The AGM is about sharing the successes of each of the divisions and looking forward to the year ahead, with even more exciting activities for our members.

“I’d like to thank both the presidents, and the Global vice-president Janie Frampton for their passion and support over the last 12 months.

“I’d also like to thank Mandy Haque, international director at GBCC for her tireless commitment to the divisions and l look forward to building on that work with our new committees.”

Transatlantic Award: James Tait (left) presents the Transatlantic President’s Medal to Jamie Joyce

Global Award: Mark Smith (right) presents the Global President’s Medal to Shaun Gray

Caution remains, but optimism on the rise

Impact of trends: Dr Ulrich Hoppe

The German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce say the outlook for the overall development of the UK economy continues to be very cautious.

However, according to a survey, companies remain more optimistic about their own activities, with 40 per cent of respondents planning to increase their investments and a similar number expecting to employ more staff.

Even if the main reason for investing in the UK is the importance of the British market (50 per cent plan to invest in sales and marketing activities), the appeal as a manufacturing location should not be underestimated say German businesses, as approximately 30 per cent of respondents are planning to invest in production and manufacturing activities.

Fifty-one online interviews were conducted with members of the German-British business community with UK operations. The study was

part of the World Business Outlook and conducted in conjunction with the German Chamber of Commerce and Industry (DIHK).

Fieldwork was conducted between 6 and 16 October 2023.

Unlike in spring, political uncertainty and the lack of demand (because of a relatively weak economy) now feature most prominently as challenges for our businesses. These are followed by trade barriers, shortage of skills and labour costs. In comparison to spring, energy costs have moved down the agenda from third to sixth position.

Dr Ulrich Hoppe, director general of the German-British Chamber of Industry & Commerce, commented: “The survey results suggest that the German-British business community continues to navigate the current challenges well, but cannot escape overall trends.”

December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 45

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ABCC Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK Contact: Anjum Khan T: 0121 274 3255

TV host wins ABCC President’s Award Noreen’s inspiration comes from her childhood, where her mother played records in the house, leading her to developing a passion to delve into a profession which involved music.

She has presented some of the most wellknown TV shows in the UK, including Back in Time for Birmingham, Countdown and Sport Relief.

‘Whether as an event host, a key figure in event curation, or a motivational speaker, she has consistently championed the cause’

TV icon: Noreen Khan with her President’s Award

Award winning TV host, radio presenter and comedian Noreen Khan was this year’s recipient of the Asian Business Chambers of Commerce President’s Award.

The President’s Award is given to an individual who has given outstanding contribution or sacrifice for the betterment of society.

The award was handed over to Noreen Khan by president Omar Rashid during the ABCC annual dinner and awards ceremony at the National Conference Centre, Solihull.

In previous years, the President’s Award has been awarded to Nobel Peace Prize winner, Malala Yousafzai, Flt Lt Rakesh Chauhan, who was an intelligence officer in the Royal Air Force, Harry Moseley, Anita Bhalla and Shani Dhandi.

Before making waves on the comedy circuit, Noreen was a host of the BBC Asian Network for over 12 years and co-hosted the opening ceremony of the 2022 Birmingham Commonwealth Games.

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Other major accolades for Noreen include cohosting the Edgbaston T20 cricket tournament, appearing on Celebrity Mastermind, Celebrity Antiques Road Show and Fighting Talk (BBC Radio 5 Live).

In recognition of her talent with the microphone, Noreen won the Radio Presenter of the Year, Asian Media Awards in 2021.

She stepped down from radio presenting in 2023 but moved to the stage as a comedian. Her show “Lol (Ladies of Laughter) with Noreen Khan” was immensely successful in 2019, and a second tour was announced for 2020, which had equal success.

Noreen toured all over the UK creating laughs and memories for all who came to the show. Most recently, Noreen was chosen to take part in the Asian Network Comedy E14, held in Birmingham, 2022.

She is now an ambassador for King Charles’ charity “The British Asian Trust” where she supports online campaigns around poverty, women and many other projects.

Noreen is also a patron of Asian Women’s Resource Centre (AWRC), a voluntary sector grassroots organisation which has been providing services for women who have experienced domestic abuse.

In 2017 Noreen started a concept of an allfemale comedy show line up to help women from diverse backgrounds to help get a bigger platform in comedy.

ABCC president Omar Rashid said: “Noreen has played a pivotal role in numerous events over the years, all with a strong focus on female empowerment.

“Whether as an event host, a key figure in event curation, or a motivational speaker, she has consistently championed the cause.

“Noreen's dedication and influence extend beyond these roles, as she has also become a valued role model for the Asian community, inspiring and empowering countless individuals with her remarkable journey.”

Outstanding female entrepreneur: Janani Prasad, Mojostack Limited

Award winners Outstanding Start-Up Business of the Year sponsored by DesiCity Winner – Find Me A Solicitor Outstanding Small Business of the Year sponsored by Lioncroft Wholesale Winner – A-Team Academy Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by NatWest Group Winner – Janani Prasad, Mojostack Outstanding Male Entrepreneur of the Year sponsored by Azets Winner – Sam Cinkir, Este Medical Group Outstanding Professional Services of the Year sponsored by Kenneth Jones Solicitors Winner – Wahed Invest Ltd Outstanding Tech and Digital Business of the Year sponsored by South and City College Birmingham Winner – Forward Carers CIC Outstanding Charity of the Year sponsored

by OTD (Our Training Department) Winner – FareShare Midlands Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year sponsored by Staffordshire University Winner – Gurdeep Chima, Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship (CRÈME) Overall Business of the Year sponsored by Shakespeare Martineau Winner - A-Team Academy President’s Award Winner – Award-winning TV host, radio presenter and comedian Noreen Khan

Outstanding male entrepreneur: Sam Cinkir, Este Medical Group

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ABCC ABCC Patrons

PREMIER+ PARTNERS

Educational firm wins top prize

By Jon Griffin Educational testing service A-Team Academy are top of the class in Greater Birmingham – after winning the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) Business of the Year award.

The educational specialists scooped the coveted overall prize, sponsored by Shakespeare Martineau, at the National Conference Centre, Solihull. They also won the Outstanding Small Business of the Year category, sponsored by Lioncroft Wholesale.

The President’s Award went to TV and radio presenter Noreen Khan, host for 12 years of the BBC Asian Network and star of TV and radio shows including Countdown, Sport Relief, Celebrity Mastermind and Fighting Talk.

The headline sponsors this year were Aston University, Doug Wright trading as McDonalds and Lioncroft Wholesale.

A-Team Academy emerged overall winners following a pivotal moment in 2022-23 when it embarked on an ambitious £40,000-plus investment programme with the launch of another innovative learning centre in Handsworth.

The judging panel, chaired by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce director of external affairs Raj Kandola, said: “Despite the significant expansion of the A-Team Academy’s business, their mission statement, ‘Learning Today. Leading Tomorrow,’ remains firmly ingrained in the heart of their operations.

“What truly sets them apart is their inclusivity. Embracing students ranging from 10 to 70 years old to sit exams with them exemplifies the belief that education transcends age, creed, or colour.

“This unwavering dedication to inclusivity and equal educational access is the foundational reason behind establishing the A-Team Academy.”

The Academy established collaborations with the Access to Music college in the Jewellery Quarter while engaging in partnerships with local community institutions, including the Nishkam Centre, Oakland Young People’s Centre and Lozells Central Mosque.

The increased engagement in the wake of the opening of the new state-of-the-art learning centre prompted rises in enrolment from the Sikh community, Afro-Caribbean, Romanian and Somali communities, boosting the academy’s impact for students from disadvantaged backgrounds.

The academy’s growing renown brought a prestige invitation from the Knowledge and Human Development Authority in the UAE to take part in an international educational fair which led to an invitation to an investors’ dinner in Dubai, with students from the Middle East state later travelling to Birmingham to sit their exams with A-Team.

The Academy owes much of its success to head of centre Amin Miah, whose experiences at the Teach First graduate scheme and

management of the National Citizen Service led him to set up the tutoring centre.

Students were welcomed initially from Bangladesh, Pakistan and India and the Academy later widened its net to Hong Kong, Romania, Italy, Spain, Nigeria and the Middle East with tutors hailing from Ukraine, Sri Lanka, China, Germany and elsewhere.

Amin admits that the transformative influence at his school in inner-city Birmingham of an Asian teacher who guided pupils through English language and literature changed his life and paved the way for his own influence on hundreds of young people who have since walked through the doors of A-Team Academy. Over 1,000 students have enrolled over the past year.

From the outset the academy has been entirely self-funded without external grants or loans and 2023 marked its highest turnover to date, building on its post-pandemic growth.

Despite the recent expansion, its mission statement ‘Learning Today, Leading Tomorrow’ remains the mantra at the heart of its operations.

ABCC President Omar Rashid told guests at the awards: “In this room I know there are some amazing business owners and entrepreneurs. We should never shy away or fail to highlight the immense value and potential that Asian businesses bring to the table. We need to champion that our cultural and business diversity can be a strength, not a limitation.”

• See all the winners – page 56 December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 47

Pictures: Jas Sansi

Top of the class: ABCC Overall Business of the Year 2023 A-Team Academy with ABCC president Omar Rashid and hosts Sunny and Shay Grewal

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Funding available for young entrepreneurs Grants of up to £2,000 are now available for people aged 18 to 30 across Staffordshire who need support with business start-up costs.

The Community Foundation for Staffordshire is managing the grant scheme for SWEF, a fund that invests in the business initiatives of young people with the aim of producing 500 entrepreneurs across the UK every year.

Companies and sole traders less than two years old, owned by people aged 18-30, are asked to apply at staffordshire.foundation/grants as soon as possible. Applicants must be able to give evidence of significant steps taken to get their business off the ground and demonstrate a financial need for the grant.

The funds will only be available for stock, equipment and materials, product development, one-off costs for developments plus rent or business-related bills.

The scheme is particularly wishing to support those who are not in education, employment or training. This is not a loan scheme and recipients do not need to pay the grant back. The full criteria including what business owners can’t apply for can be found at staffordshire.foundation.

Successful companies will also have access to an online business forum with other organisations that have been awarded a grant. The forum offers a space to exchange ideas, experiences and learn.

The Community Foundation for Staffordshire is a team of locally-based grant managers with extensive knowledge of local needs.

They create and administer benevolent funds and grant giving schemes for philanthropists, businesses, central government, and local authorities that want to improve their reach into local communities.

The Community Foundation manages more than £10m of charitable funds each year, which are designed to create a lasting local legacy.

Leanne Macpherson, head of programmes at The Community Foundation for Staffordshire, said: “Starting a business is challenging emotionally and financially and we hope this scheme will help make that leap of faith into entrepreneurship that little bit easier.

“And we want to make the application process simple, not taking up too much time that could be used to develop the business.

So I ask interested people to contact us to ensure their application is the best it can be.”

For more information, email office@staffordshire.foundation or call 01785 339540

48 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Christmas has come to McArthurGlen McArthurGlen has become a major part of the business scene in Cannock and Chamberlink’s Feron Jayawardene visited the designer outlet to find out what is happening there in the build-up to Christmas.

The huge arch at the McArthurGlen entrance is adorned with a green wreath. Christmas is here. Throughout the vast space of the designer outlet, there are many Christmassy additions including a giant Christmas tree which had to be craned in, a real-size Santa’s sleigh (sans the reindeers) and a bubble tent decorated in red. The time of giving is in full swing and the designer outlet is doing its part to the local community.

Earlier this year, McArthurGlen entered the Cannock Town Centre Partnership, an independent committee of business owners coming together to support the growth of the town centre, including the Christmas lights switch-on.

The designer outlet at Eastern Way, Cannock, is now 100 per cent let, with 33 stores operating; the latest of them being The Body Shop, Barbour, The North Face, Swarovski and Meli, which is due to open in January. This in return has created 1,200 job opportunities.

The outlet’s exclusive light switch-on event was also a success, with over 250 people and three local primary schools attending.

McArthurGlen’s Christmas workshop is running until 24 December. Each child will receive a chocolate gift and a photo of their experience will be available to purchase.

This experience costs £2.50 per child and all funds gathered through the workshops will be donated to Action for Children charity.

The charity protects and supports children and young people, providing practical and emotional care and support, ensuring their voices are heard, and campaigning to bring lasting improvements to their lives.

With a lot happening during these months, centre manager David Jackson (pictured inset) is a happy man. He said: “We are delighted to reach a fully let status, just over two years after opening.

“All 73 stores will be trading from early January 2024, and will offer jobs to the local community, as well as career progression into the retail sector for many. We look forward to the centre developing further, more job prospects and opportunities, and our continued imbedding into the local community.”

Switched on: Father Christmas and his helpers at the Cannock Christmas lights switch-on

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Chamber unearths a hidden gem

By Feron Jayawardene Strategic PR, communications and engagement firm MIH Solutions was crowned Burton’s Hidden Gem at a Celebratory Lunch organised by Burton Chamber of Commerce.

It was held at the Pirelli Stadium in front of Chamber members, business leaders and guests.

Benjamin Wileman from Select Car Leasing Burton upon Trent was awarded Burton’s Rising Star.

Over the last year, MIH Solutions continued to grow by welcoming new staff, doubling turnover and has attracted 11 new clients through organic growth.

They have recruited two more senior positions to enable better delegation and more effective distribution of account management, becoming more flexible with greater support for employees.

Other accolades include creating a staff wellbeing and inclusion “circle”, enabling colleagues to have a voice to help senior members of the team improve wellbeing, satisfaction and inclusion.

The communications firm has also contributed its part in the local community by designing a pro bono package of PR support for local charity Without Walls and its Thrive project, which supports those with mental health needs and combats loneliness.

MIH Solutions also became the main sponsor of Dunstall Cricket Club’s junior section. This arrangement is helping Dunstall to deliver on its mission of providing year-round training and

Winners all (left to right): Nik Hardy (Hardy Signs), Benjamin Wileman (Select Car Leasing Burton-on-Trent), Jo Yeaman and Jon Beech (both MIH Solutions) and Richard Brookes, (director of Burton Chamber)

playing opportunities to young players of all ages, abilities and backgrounds.

Meanwhile, Benjamin Wileman, from Select Car Leasing Burton upon Trent, became Burton’s Rising Star.

He joined Select Car Leasing in 2021 as a senior leasing consultant. His focus and drive led to Select Car Leasing earning a 4.9/5 Trustpilot rating with over 33,000 reviews. It has also led to over 1,500-plus enquiries submitted from clients of the Burton office alone and he has successfully consulted 250 new clients.

The President’s Award was presented to Nik Hardy of Hardy Signs by Shaun Gray, European

managing director Ginho. The firm has completed 30 years in business and has been recognised for the continued success, support and dedication to the Burton Chamber of Commerce, Burton college, town centre and for their investment into future technology.

Head of judges Chris Brewerton said: “It was hugely encouraging to see the breadth of applications and the quality of the applications and I know the judges were very impressed.

“It was a difficult decision and close call so therefore the winners should be very proud to be able to call themselves Burton’s Hidden Gem and Rising Star for the next 12 months.”

Another successful sleepout as YMCA reaches milestone Over 140 participants united for a night of rough sleeping in the 15th annual sleepout for YMCA Burton.

It took place at Pirelli Stadium, Burton Albion FC’s home even though temperatures dropped to four degrees.

There was also the option of the Xtreme Sleepout at St Modwen’s graveyard which gained more participants this year.

YMCA Burton celebrated the milestone of 15 years of holding this event, which is their largest fundraiser while their CEO Paul Laffey has taken part in every one.

He said: “I find participating in the annual sleepout a challenge and a humbling experience in equal measure. It’s a stark reminder of what many of our residents have faced before they found sanctuary and a place to call home at the YMCA. “Of course, it’s only one night sleeping rough as a participant, and I realise how blessed I am to

have a loving family, a support network and a home.

“Fifteen years is quite a milestone and I am pleased to have taken part every year the YMCA has run the event. I would like to thank everyone who has sponsored me to take part, all the wonderful participants who have Slept-Out and the people who have sponsored them, you really do help change lives.”

The participants also heard from YMCA Burton’s president Ben Robinson and ex-Brewer's boss Nigel Clough, who came to do the sleepout. They later presented Paul with a gift and certificate for his 15 years of sleepout service.

Fundraising and partnerships manager Paula Senior, who has organised the sleepout for the past eight years, said: “I am blown away and humbled by the support it gets.

“This year, especially with the continued cost of living crisis, has made fundraising really difficult so

Graveyard shift: Participants in the Burton YMCA Sleepout

we are grateful for all the money the fundraisers have managed to raise and to all our sponsors too.”

YMCA Burton are still taking donations for this years’ sleepout. To donate, do to: www.justgiving.com/campaign/ymca burtonsleepout23 December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 49

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LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Chris Brewerton T: 07753 453624

Chamber is focused firmly on the future A continued focus on sustainability, equity and diversity and engagement with the future workforce will be at the heart of Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber’s activities over the next 12 months, attendees at the organisation’s annual meeting heard.

Addressing delegates at Drayton Manor Hotel, president Fiona Rouse said the Chamber would look to build on those three key pillars during the second year of her term.

Fiona, director of programmes at PI-Kem, will continue to be supported by vice-presidents Hannah Montgomery, of Golddust Marketing, and Julie Poppleton, of Chase Terrace Academy.

She said: “The committee began the year with a survey asking local members their thoughts on topics they felt affected their business sustainability the most, as well as asking how they

Paralegal takes the next step in her career A Lichfield firm of family-run solicitors is celebrating one of its paralegals reaching a career milestone in a specialist field.

Adcocks Solicitors, based in Lombard Street, has announced that paralegal Francesca Allen (pictured) has qualified as a fully-fledged licensed conveyancer.

Francesca said: “I’m proud that I have now qualified as a licensed conveyancer after completing my Level 6 Diploma in Conveyancing Law and Practice.

“I’ve learned such a lot since joining Adcocks five years ago and now I’m very excited to continue to progress my career with the firm.”

Director Hedley Adcock, who is the great- grandson of the firm’s founder, said: “We take great pride in Francesca’s achievement. She has worked incredibly hard to reach this milestone. Her dedication to her work and clients is nothing but exemplary, and we have no doubt that she will continue to excel in her career as a fully-fledged licensed conveyancer.”

50 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Annual meeting delegates (left to right): John Moore (Fruition Accountants), Louise Lewis (Lichfield District Council), Thomas Hobbs (Tamworth Borough Council), Fiona Rouse, Hannah Montgomery, Julie Poppleton, Dawn Candy (Number Eight Tamworth), Klaudia Haines (Tamworth Borough Council), Nicole Plowman (KEP Print), Matthew Clay (Lichfield Garrick Theatre), Sharon McCormick (The Listening Centre), Clare Lubrano (Raphael Design) and Janice Silvester-Hall (Lichfield District Council)

engaged with local schools and training providers.

We used the information gained from this to plan our events for the year. There has been continually improving engagement through our business sustainability series, and we have put on a range of events including discussion panels.

“We are continuing to work with education and training partners to increase involvement with our future workforce.

“The survey showed that a high number of businesses offered work experience but equally a number were not engaging at all with young people.

“We have begun our work to highlight the need for equity within the workplace. Kate Johnson from Pickerings Solicitors wrote an insightful blog on unconscious bias, I spoke at an International Women’s Day event around hidden disabilities in Birmingham, and we are looking to run some further speaker panels focusing on this later this year.”

Also at the meeting, Michelle Ohren, director of The Cyber Resilience Centre for the West Midlands, shared her tips and advice on how businesses can protect themselves against cyber-attacks.

Theatre launches ticket appeal to help spread joy Lichfield Garrick Theatre is once again gearing up for a magical Christmas season with its Christmas Ticket Appeal.

And the theatre, which features the Beauty and the Beast this year, is calling on businesses to support the appeal which allows those in the community who have faced adversity to attend the annual pantomime.

Since the inception of the initiative in 2017, more than 500 families have been able to attend the Garrick’s pantomime, all thanks to the generosity of local firms.

Daniel Buckroyd, artistic director and CEO at Lichfield Garrick Theatre, said: “We believe in the power of the arts to uplift and heal, especially during the holiday season. And we know that with the generous support of our local businesses, we can make a real difference to the lives of those in our community.”

Business sponsor Friary Shoes said of the scheme: “We wanted to get involved as it is a great opportunity to support a fabulous local venue and also give something back to the community.”

The Garrick is inviting all local businesses to become a part of the tradition by being a sponsor. For more information contact Matt Clay,

Matthew.Clay@lichfieldgarrick.com or 01543 412123.

The appeal runs until 7 January, with suggested business sponsorship from £150 +VAT. Individuals can make a donation of any size online or through the box office.

Find out more at www.lichfieldgarrick.com/supportus/ christmas-ticket-appeal

Charitable spirit: The Beauty and the Beast cast

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Chris Brewerton T: 07753 453624

Funeral director brings building back to life A historic Sutton Coldfield building which has stood uninhabited for nearly 70 years is being brought back to life – thanks to long-running funeral directors Ian Hazel Funerals.

The Old Bakery cottage on Lichfield Road in Mere Green, near Ian Hazel Funerals’ premises, was last inhabited by a family in 1955, although there is no evidence it was ever a bakery.

Working with Royal Sutton Coldfield Town Council’s preservation and planning teams, managing director Ian Hazel has been able to salvage the building with a new roof, walls and windows, while saving centuries-old features including original fireplaces, window frames and beams. It will now become a 656sq ft retail unit.

Mystery name: Ian Hazel

The remaining site is set to become a commercial development with 3,500 square feet of office space across three floors. Ian, a fourth-generation funeral director who started development plans for the site in 2020, says it will accommodate more than 20 employees.

He added: “It is a very proud moment for me to return to use an area of Sutton Coldfield that for various reasons has been derelict for several years.

“As a long-standing business based in Mere Green, serving the local community in their time of bereavement and loss, we are so happy to see the work near completion and the site soon to be in full use.

“The cottage has been described as The Old Bakery, although we have not unearthed any evidence of a bakery ever being there and no reason as to why it is called that.”

Residents of Sutton Coldfield who have any further knowledge of the site are encouraged to contact Ian Hazel on 0121 308 7777.

Hotel celebrates promotions The Belfry Hotel & Resort, near Sutton Coldfield, has announced the promotions of six female members of staff.

The resort says these interim positions, which came into effect this month, recognise their steadfast commitment to the internal growth of its employees, as well as its sustained endeavours towards gender parity.

The Belfry achieved a 50-50 split between male and female employees in its executive team for the first time in its history in 2023.

Lynsey Smith has been promoted from resort desk manager to revenue manager. Taking over from Lynsey as resort desk manager is Esther Pinedo, who has recently been shortlisted for the Front of House Manager of the Year Award at the Hotel Cateys 2023.

Taking the reins as reception manager is Sarah

Promotions: Rebecca, Julie and Esther

Hughes, who worked as assistant reception manager for 10 years.

Advancing from her current role as reception senior supervisor, a position she has held for two years, is Julie Marquie who will now become reception assistant manager.

Rebecca Graffy, who has shown remarkable potential in her seven months at The Belfry, moves from receptionist to reception supervisor.

With 12 years’ experience in delivering the highest levels of customer service to guests, Kerry Shepherd has been promoted to guest relations manager.

Chris Eigelaar, resort director at The Belfry, said: “It fills me with immense pride to recognise the expertise, enthusiasm and capability of so many of our incredible female employees here at The Belfry. Their appointments are well-deserved.”

Well-deserved: Kerry, Lynsey and Esther

In focus: The Adventure team featured on their new-look website

Design agency reveals modernised website Sutton Coldfield design agency Adventure Graphics unveiled its new-look website and launched several fresh products to add to their one-stop design shop.

The revamped website features new photography by Lisa Carpenter Business & Branding Photography, while the team are captured with their Adventure speech bubbles which form an essential part of the new website branding approach.

Creative director Warwick Kay said: “Obviously, as a web design company it’s important to us that our website is kept upto-date and fresh.

“We were still getting lots of nice comments from potential clients about our old website but we just felt that it was looking a little dated and didn’t really project enough about who we are and what we can offer.

“The speech bubbles were a way for us to show why clients like working with us but also to capture our personable, friendly approach that we know our clients really appreciate from our reviews.”

Warwick’s wife Penny, who is responsible for marketing and projects at Adventure, said the website has been an ongoing process, having fallen down the list of priorities due to the team helping customers with their own websites.

She said: “It has been a bit of a busman’s holiday and we kept thinking of new ideas too so it has grown quite a lot.”

Adventure’s new website now includes a dedicated Small Business Website Service which offers special support and packages for new, independent firms.

Adventure have also added copywriting and animations as a dedicated service.

“We have been offering these services for quite a few years now”, explains Warwick.

“But our old website probably didn’t clearly explain that we did.”

The team have also put together free downloadable guides to help businesses pin down exactly what they would like their website to say and do.

Visit the new website at www.adventuregraphics.co.uk

December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 51

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SOLIHULL All the latest news, advice and events for the Solihull business community Contact: Samantha Frampton T: 0121 678 7488

Innovative lab to shape the future of telecoms The government’s state-of-the-art UK Telecoms Lab (UKTL) will open at UK Central in Solihull, with plans to create up to 50 skilled tech jobs by March 2025.

The announcement was made during Global West Midlands: The Tech That Makes Tomorrow Work – a dedicated event hosted by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) during Birmingham Tech Week 2023.

The event saw Birmingham Tech Week pivot towards a global audience for the first time, with WMGC actively targeting overseas firms looking to nurture new innovations in the UK. The first of its kind in the country, UKTL was established as a response to the government’s 5G diversification strategy and aims to make the UK a “science and technology superpower” by 2030.

Funded by the Department for Science, Innovation and Technology (DSIT), it will be run on DSIT’s behalf by the National Physical Laboratory (NPL), championing cybersecurity and shaping the future of telecoms infrastructure.

Experts from NPL will provide testing and advice to venders, suppliers, and users, for

example on network vulnerabilities to enable them to improve their systems before deployment or use, helping to keep the UK’s networks safe and secure.

As well as helping to boost the security, resilience and performance of the UK’s mobile networks, the UKTL will play a role in closing the UK’s digital skills gap.

With a tech sector valued at over £15bn, the West Midlands was crowned the best-connected UK region for 5G. Major commercial players including BT, Vodaphone, Fujitsu, Ericsson, Telent and Telefonica/O2 are already reaping the benefits of the region’s faster data speeds, ultralow latency and high connection density.

Councillor Ian Courts, leader of Solihull Council and portfolio holder for the economy, said: “This strategic investment supports Solihull’s ambition to be an important driver of national connectivity, with ‘UK leading connectivity’ already forming the hallmark of our proposition.

“By helping new businesses to secure a foothold in the telecoms market, UKTL also

Supporting Solihull: Emma Haynes with Councillor Ian Courts

strengthens Solihull’s reputation as an ideal environment for ambitious companies to thrive.”

Emma Haynes, partnerships director at NPL, said: “NPL is delighted to operate UKTL on behalf of DSIT. From its Solihull base, UKTL will support the UK’s mission to become a global leader in digital connectivity while strengthening supply chains and creating a more diverse and innovative 5G market.”

School’s green efforts scoop top prize Solihull Chamber of Commerce have sponsored Forest Oak School in this year’s Greener School Awards, in which the school has been awarded a prize.

Forest Oak is a special school catering for children and young people with special educational needs. They cater for young people with moderate learning difficulties

and some may have additional needs such as autism, ADHD, Downs Syndrome, cerebral palsy and global learning display. Pupils can also have a range of complex medical needs including diabetes and epilepsy.

The school has had an exciting year, including the recent opening of their new satellite centre,

Championed by Chamber (left to right): Solihull mayor Councillor Diana Holl-Allen; principal Donna Luck; eco-leader Janis Smith and Solihull Chamber director Samantha Frampton

52 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Oakwood. The site was originally a children’s centre and was bought

by Solihull Council early in 2023 for Forest Oak pupils. It has since been refurbished and fully equipped to provide the very best opportunities for Forest Oak pupils.

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, visited the site opening to present the school with their prize. She said: “It is my pleasure to award Forest Oak school with the Solihull Chamber prize. It is wonderful to see the ongoing hard work and commitment that the school put into achieving level 1 and level 2, especially since re-starting the Eco Team in January this year. Forest Oak are very worthy winners.

“It is inspiring to read all about how the pupils have embraced being part of the Eco Team and are helping to raise the awareness (Eco display board) as well as encouraging fellow pupils who have ECO responsibilities (checking that unnecessary lights are turned off).

“I especially enjoyed reading all about the campaigns that they

have ran throughout the year which the whole school take part in ASDAN Challenge, Switch off Fortnight and Great Big School Spring Clean.

“The Chamber is heavily involved in supporting businesses across the West Midlands in their own journey towards more sustainable business practices and recently hosted a sustainability speaker event in Solihull which followed on from the Sustainable Business conference.

It’s all helping to increase awareness and stimulate action on achieving net zero targets.

“Congratulations again to Forest Oak school on their achievements.”

Janis Smith, Forest Oak School, said: “We are a small group as we only started back up last year. This group are part of the 2022/2023 ECO team.

“We are going to use the prize towards sprucing up the outside area of our new KS4 Oakwood Centre. We are really looking forward to settling in properly and are excited for what is to come in future years for Forest Oak School.”

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

CIPP ranks among top firms to work for The Chartered Institute of Payroll Professionals (CIPP) has been named as one of the best 100 small-sized companies to work for in the UK. The membership body for professionals in payroll, based in Solihull, secured 60th place on the Best Companies’ list of the UK’s Best Small Companies to Work For, rising 20 places from 80th last year.

Assessors praised the CIPP’s commitment to creating a family feel in the business, while also recognising that employees were given a chance to feel empowered and make their voices heard as part of their ‘Employee Voice’ internal group.

Initially launched in 2001, Best Companies lists and accreditations are seen as the gold standard in workplace engagement in the UK, recognising organisations and managers who genuinely value and respect their employees.

As well as the national achievement, the CIPP

was also ranked 55th in the regional list for the West Midlands and eighth in the category for not-for-profit organisations.

The success of the Best Companies listing for the CIPP also follows another accolade for the CIPP’s membership magazine, which picked up the Best Association Newsletter or Magazine (circulation 6,000 – 25,000) Bronze Award at the GCN Events Association Excellence Awards 2023.

Vickie Graham, business development manager at CIPP, said: “We strive to be a business that employees are proud to be working for and the recognition by Best Companies is a testament to that dedication.

Placing on the national list of best small companies to work for in the UK is once again a major honour, but to also take a significant jump up in the standings to 60th is proof that we are supporting our employees in the right way.”

Major honour: Vickie Graham

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FUTURE FACES FUTURE FACES CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell T: 07540 751590

Activities focused firmly on Future

Sophie Poduval-Morrell, manager of Future Faces, the young professionals’ arm of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, looks back on an exciting year of activity and ahead to what’s happening in 2024.

As the Future Faces manager, reflecting on the past year fills me with immense pride and excitement.

The journey has been nothing short of dynamic, from early morning McDonald's breakfasts to fostering meaningful connections through our diverse range of initiatives.

In 2023, Future Faces has emerged as a beacon for young professionals in Greater Birmingham, offering a platform for growth, collaboration and celebration.

‘As the Future Faces manager, I am thrilled to be part of this vibrant community’

New Members Jamie Gibson BDO LLP Maddalena Geroli Browne Jacobson LLP Robert Bushell Eventmasters Limited Kavita Mehey Lawrence Kurt Solicitors James Clark Newstead Clark Financial Services Ashley Dougliss Newstead Clark Financial Services

54 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

Dynamic journey: Sophie Poduval-Morrell

One of the highlights of the year was the inaugural Greater BYPY (Birmingham Young Professional of the Year) awards, a momentous occasion that recognised the outstanding achievements of our young professionals.

Zaylie-Dawn Wilson, the head of creative partnerships at Birmingham Hippodrome, rightfully earned the title of Greater Birmingham's Young Professional of the Year.

Her success not only embodies the spirit of Future Faces but also showcases the incredible talent within our vibrant community.

In addition to celebrating achievements, we took a deep dive into the diversity and inclusion within our network. The findings were enlightening and have spurred us into action.

As we look ahead to 2024, we are committed to implementing positive changes that will foster a more inclusive and welcoming environment for all Future Faces members. Our goal is to ensure that every young professional in Greater Birmingham, regardless of background or identity, feels a sense of belonging within our network.

The coming year promises to be another chapter in our journey of growth and empowerment. We have a wonderful new committee, with some familiar faces as well as some new ones, from a wide range of backgrounds and sectors. They are all looking forward to getting stuck into Future Faces and the various areas that come with it, from welcoming new members to matching mentors with mentees.

As the Future Faces manager, I am thrilled to be part of this vibrant community, and I look forward to the exciting possibilities that lie ahead.

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FUTURE FACES

The Chamber’s ever growing network for young professionals and the leaders of tomorrow.

Quiz night supports mental health charity

Ready for action – the new Future Faces committee (left to right): Will Crawford, Harry Paige, Tom Bower, Amy Jacklin, Sophie Poduval-Morrell (manager), Kasim Choudhry, Freya Dearman, Jasmine Caine, Faye Jacklin, Adam Gadsby and Jamie Gibson

New committee introduced at AGM The new Future Faces committee was introduced at their annual meeting at the Everyman Cinema in the Mailbox.

Headed by president Kasim Choudhry, the committee now has two new vice-presidents, Freya Dearman (BT) and Sarah Griffiths (Intercity Technology), who will join ongoing vice-president Amy Jacklin (Virgin Money).

The rest of the committee includes Jamie Gibson (BDO), Jasmine Caine (Rewired PR), Faye Jacklin (Claritas Tax), Adam Gadsby (PIKEM), Harry Paige (Digital Innovators), Tom Bower (Woods Hardwick), Harriet Saunders (The FSE Group), Hannah Ellis (Lloyds Bank), and Will Crawford (quietnote).

The committee will also be split into working groups for different areas of Future Faces. They are: • Podcast- Hannah Ellis • Events and New Members WelcomeFreya Dearman • Diversity and Inclusion- Harriet Saunders • Mentoring- Tom Bower • Charity- Sarah Griffiths • Greater BYPY- Kasim Choudhry and Amy Jacklin • Wellbeing- Will Crawford The meeting reflected on the incredible achievements and milestones Future Faces has reached in the past year, thanks to the dedication and hard work of their members and partners and committee.

It was also an opportunity to network with fellow industry leaders, professionals, and young professionals, and a chance to connect and collaborate with the best and brightest minds in Birmingham's business community.

Kasim Choudhry spoke of the successes and achievements Future Faces has had in the last year, and the committee’s plans for the year ahead into 2024.

He said: “It’s brilliant to see this network growing and really becoming a diverse and inclusive community, I am so excited to be working with a fantastic committee of young professionals across Greater Birmingham.”

Mandy Sidhu, winner of the People & Wellbeing category at the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year awards 2023, said: “Winning the GBYPY award and being a part of such a fantastic group of young professionals through Future Faces has been incredible.

“Not only does it help to broaden my professional network and support my CPD, but the topics covered in the networks events calendar are so relatable and make a difference to my own critical thinking in the workplace.

“The AGM was a great insight into what’s coming up for the year ahead and how the network will continue to support me in my career. I can’t wait!”

Future Faces will also be hosting a ‘Meet the Committee’ podcast episode, which will go live on Tuesday, 12 December. Find all of the previous Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast episodes by scanning the QR code.

Over 100 young professionals attended a Future Faces quiz night to raise funds for their nominated charity, Birmingham Mind.

The quiz night, staged by the young professionals arm of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, was hosted by The Button Factory and Tom Green from msix & partners acted as the quiz master.

A total of £2,473.51 was raised for Birmingham Mind, with Claritas Tax coming out on top as the winning team.

Future Faces also raised over £1,000 in funds for the charity through a raffle at the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year awards this year.

Birmingham Mind is a leading charitable provider of mental health services in Birmingham. They specialise in supporting people with mental health difficulties providing low level prevention services to highly supported services for people with complex needs.

Through donations and fundraising, Birmingham Mind is able to operate a 24/7 mental health Helpline and in the last 12 months they have supported over 34,000 people in the region. They are affiliated to National Mind, the largest Mental Health Charity in England and Wales.

They are proactive in removing stigma around mental health in the city and have worked with partners such as the Bullring and Grand Central for the past two years to deliver campaigns that highlight the needs to talk about mental health, and access services.

Helen Wadley, CEO at Birmingham Mind, said: “We would like to extend our sincere thanks to all the Future Faces members who were able to support the charity quiz night. Your ongoing support and donations will assist us in supporting our Helpline for those living in the Birmingham & Solihull area who seek assistance on a range of mental health issues.

“The Helpline continues to be a muchneeded service and Birmingham Mind, in partnership with the Birmingham & Solihull Mental Health Foundation Trust, is only able to offer the people of Birmingham this dedicated advice and helpline service with donations like this.”

Danny Booth, director of business development at Birmingham Mind, said: “We’re so grateful for the support Future Faces have given Birmingham Mind with the recent Greater BYPY Awards and quiz night at The Button Factory. All the money raised ensures our teams are able to support people here in Birmingham with their mental health, when and where they need it.

“These events have also helped us to reach so many young professionals in the city to talk with about mental health.”

December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 55

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Christmas season in full swing...

Festive celebrations dominate the events programmes for Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) members during December. Among the highlights will be free Future Faces gatherings at Gymshark ‘s Solihull HQ on 1 December for networking and at Alberts Schloss in Birmingham city centre on 14 December, for a Christmas social. And there will be similar events throughout the GBCC network in December and into the New Year.

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/networking-events

ABCC success: All the prize winners at the annual awards and dinner of the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Gymshark Future Faces & Solihull Networking Date: 1 December Time: 4:30pm – 6:30pm Venue: Gymshark HQ Division: Future Faces/Solihull Cost: members: free Future Faces members: free Marketing Experts Speaker Breakfast Date: 1 December Time: 7:30am – 9:00am Venue: Drayton Manor Hotel Division: Lichfield and Tamworth Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Speed Networking Solihull Date: 5 December Time: 9:00am – 11:00am Venue: The Best Western Manor Meriden Division: Solihull Cost: Members: free Future Faces members £15 + VAT Non-members: £20 + VAT Christmas Social Networking Burton & District Date: 7 December Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: Annie Maison

Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT 1813 Club & Premier Members Christmas Lunch 2023 Date: 8 December Time: 12:00pm – 2:30pm Venue: Edgbaston Park Hotel and Conference Centre Division: GBCC Cost: 1813 Club & Premier Member: £28pp + VAT Premier Members Networking Breakfast Date: 13 December Time: 8:30am – 10:30am Venue: Alpha Works Division: GBCC Cost: Free to Premier Members Christmas Social Networking Sutton Coldfield Date: 13 December Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: WAA Chosen Division: Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

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Future Faces Christmas Social Date: 14 December Time: 4:30pm – 6:30pm Venue: Alberts Schloss Division: Future Faces Future Faces Members :free Cannock Chase and Lichfield Christmas Social Networking Date: 14 December Time: 4:30pm – 6:30pm Venue: The Boat Inn Division: Cannock Chase Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Solihull President’s Christmas Drinks Date: 14 December Time: 5:30pm – 7:00pm Venue: Harry’s bar, The Regency Hotel Division: Solihull Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT Professional Development Date: 11 January Time: 5:30pm – 7:30pm Venue: See website Division: Future Faces Cost: Members: free

1813 + Prem Social Networking Date: 18 January Time: 5:30-7:30pm Venue: See website Division: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Cost: Members: free Speed Networking – online Date: 23 January Time: 12:00pm-1:00pm Venue: Online Division: All Divisions Cost: Members: free Future Faces members £15 + VAT Non-members: £20 + VAT Good Business Forum Date: 24 January Time: 3:00-5:00pm Venue: See Website Division: Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce Cost: Members: free Pro Solihull Networking Date: 25 January Time: 5:30-7:30pm Venue: See website Division: Solihull Cost: Members: free Future Faces members: £15 + VAT Non-members: £50 + VAT

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CHAMBER EVENTS

TV and radio star to host 2024 dinner Award-winning TV and radio personality Noreen Khan will host the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) annual dinner and awards at the ICC next year.

The winner of this year’s Asian Business Chamber of Commerce President’s Medal (see page 47) said: “I’m thoroughly looking forward to hosting the region’s biggest celebration of businesses. It’ll be fantastic to see many organisations vying for glory at the GBCC annual dinner and awards and it’s a real honour for me to be hosting it.”

The event takes place at the ICC Birmingham on Thursday, 15 February.

Go to greaterbirminghamchambers.com for more information, buy tickets and learn about sponsorship opportunities.

The GBCC have received backing from a host of firms for the annual dinner and awards – including headline sponsor Birmingham City University. Around 1,200 people are set to attend the region’s biggest celebration of business.

Professor Julian Beer, deputy vice-chancellor (research, innovation and enterprise) at Birmingham City University, said: “Birmingham City University is proud to once again be supporting the annual Chamber awards.

“The University has been part of the fabric of our great city for more than 180 years, with a strong focus on applied and practice-led education.

“Driven by our mission to be the University for Birmingham, we work with hundreds of regional entrepreneurs and businesses each year to support growth and innovation – an ambition demonstrated by the recent opening of our 100,000 sq ft STEAMHouse innovation centre.

“BCU is also ranked first amongst West Midlands universities for the volume of business start-ups, and 14th nationally, demonstrating our strong support for entrepreneurship.

“Reflecting our business focus and industry engagement, the opportunity to support and celebrate “the very best of Birmingham through the awards made perfect sense!

“We very much look forward to welcoming you on the night.”

A number of businesses have also signed up as award category sponsors, including: runyourfleet (Excellence in Contribution to the Community), Birmingham Airport (Excellence in Customer Service), Gowling WLG (Excellence in International Business), Thursfields (Excellence in Manufacturing), South & City College Birmingham (Excellence in Inclusive People Development), Schumacher Packaging (Excellence in Sales & Marketing), Aston University (Excellence in Sustainability), Close Brothers Asset Management (Excellence in Technology and Innovation and Unity Trust Bank (Excellence in the Third Sector).

The overall Greater Birmingham Business of the Year – chosen from the winners of the 12 sector award categories – is sponsored by Crowe LLP. The table décor sponsor is mfg Solicitors.

Hosting: Noreen Khan

Twelve sector awards will be handed out on the night, with one of the category winners going on to be crowned overall Greater Birmingham Business of the Year (sponsored by Crowe).

Judging the awards categories are: • Zoe Bennett, founder of Training Personified • Andreas Antona, chef-owner at Simpsons Restaurant • Alex Nicholson-Evans, founder and director of Living For The Weekend • Karl George, partner at RSM UK and GBCC board member • Gurmit Kler, trustee of Birmingham Women’s and Children’s NHS Foundation Trust • Raidene Carter, creative director, Birmingham Festival • Omar Rashid, president of Asian Business Chamber of Commerce and managing director/owner of The HR Dept Bham Central & Wolves • Suzie Branch-Haddow, vice principal - external development, Birmingham Metropolitan College • Steve Allen, GBCC past president • Rob Valentine , regional director – Birmingham at Bruntwood • Nicola Beckford, BBC Midlands Today presenter and journalist • Heike Schuster-James, head of partnership development at Birmingham City University Lillian Elekan, head of membership at the GBCC, will be chairing the judging panel. She said: “I am truly honoured to chair and guide this year’s judging panel in recognising and celebrating the remarkable achievements of businesses in Greater Birmingham.

“The calibre of entries for these awards year on year is a testament to the region's vibrant business community and entrepreneurial spirit. I am excited to work with our esteemed judges to carefully review each submission and select the most commendable winners.

“These awards showcase the excellence and innovation that define Greater Birmingham's business landscape, and I look forward to following the exciting journeys of all of our finalists and winners.”

Recognition for long-standing members of the Chamber Three firms were recognised with long-service awards at the annual meeting of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

They were presented by outgoing president Deb Leary to Thomas Fattorini Ltd (58 years), Crowne Plaza Solihull (33 years) and Art Business Loans (25 years).

58 years: Director Tom Fattorini with Deb Leary

33 years: Nicola Corfield, sales and marketing manager, Crowne Plaza Solihull

25 years: Steve Walker, of Art Business Loans

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FEATURE: EXECUTIVE SEARCH & RECRUITMENT

What is

executive search?

Recruiting can be a difficult task, especially if you’re looking for senior management or board level staff. You need the right level of skill and experience, but you haven’t got access to the top talent you’re looking for – so when it comes to hard-to-fill roles, an executive search consultant might be the answer.

What is executive search?

Executive search recruitment is primarily used to find candidates for senior-level jobs, particularly niche or highly specialist roles that may be hard to fill. Executive recruiters usually operate within small sectors and are responsible for sourcing talent within that specific industry. Also known as search and selection, or, more commonly, headhunting, this kind of recruitment takes a proactive approach and doesn’t follow traditional recruitment methods.

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What’s the difference between a recruiter and an executive search consultant?

The end goal for a recruiter and an executive search consultant is the same – they want to fill a role on behalf of an employer, their client. However, there are a number of key differences between the two and the way they operate.

Although they can work across all industries and levels of skill, recruiters commonly focus on entry level and mid-management roles. They will advertise a job

‘The end goal for a recruiter and an executive search consultant is the same’

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FEATURE: EXECUTIVE SEARCH & RECRUITMENT

on behalf of the client and then draw from the large pool of active job seekers who express interest in the role. Candidates might be registered with multiple recruitment agencies and there may be a lot of competition for each role.

Executive search firms focus only on technical specialists, upper management and executive roles. A headhunter’s role is to find the very best match to meet a very specific job description – and quite often, this might mean directly approaching a passive candidate who isn’t actively looking for a new role (or someone who is putting the feelers out for new opportunities but hasn’t started applying for roles yet). In a lot of cases, the best candidate for the job is already engaged in a senior position elsewhere (and may even be working for the competition) so it’s the executive search consultant’s job to contact them and discuss whether they would consider a move. In order to identify the very best candidates from a small pool of individuals, they will have excellent contacts and expert knowledge of the sector.

While more expensive, this process will allow the headhunter to dedicate time to getting to know the organisation, its values and the specific skills and experience it needs, allowing them to conduct a more tailored and thorough search.

Additionally, they only work on a small number of roles at any given time, which means they can also spend time getting to know candidates in depth, particularly their career goals – a beneficial process when persuading a passive candidate to take on a new role.

Having been granted exclusive rights to work on the placement, an executive search firm will be involved with every step of the process, from approaching candidates and drawing up a shortlist, to making introductions to clients, assisting with negotiations and seeing a candidate placed in a role.

When to use an executive search firm The choice to use an executive search firm over a traditional recruiter will depend on the role you need to fill. If the position is high profile, niche, or requires hard-to-find skills, you might consider retaining the expert services of a headhunter. While more expensive, engaging an executive search firm could actually save you time and money in the long run.

A headhunter will eliminate such timewasting risks as shortlisting and interviewing ill-qualified candidates, and reduce the chance of a bad hire. Additionally, by providing you access to the very best candidates in the field, they will help you gain an edge over your competitors.

How executive search works Recruiters operate on a contingent model, and are often in direct competition with other agencies to fill the same position – which means they will only receive a commission if their candidate is placed – and they usually balance many clients and candidates at once.

In contrast, an executive search firm operates on a retained basis; they will charge a retainer fee upfront, and then charge additional fees at regular intervals throughout the search process.

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FEATURE: EXECUTIVE SEARCH & RECRUITMENT

Diverse leadership breaking the barriers and shaping success in executive recruitment

By Carmen Watson, chair of Pertemps Network Group n a world that is becoming increasingly interconnected and globalised, the need for diverse leadership in executive roles is more crucial than ever.

Companies across the world are recognising the significance of having a leadership team that reflects the diversity of their workforce and their customer base. The value of diversity in executive recruitment goes beyond just ticking boxes for inclusion. It is a strategic imperative that drives innovation, fosters creativity and shapes the success of organisations.

Diverse leadership is not just a matter of moral obligation. The evidence supporting the benefits of it is overwhelming. Studies consistently show that diverse executive teams make better decisions, foster innovation, and drive better financial results. McKinsey & Company's “Diversity Matters” report found that companies with more diverse executive teams are 33 per cent more likely to outperform their industry peers in terms of profitability. The reasons behind this are multifaceted.

First, diverse teams bring a wider range of perspectives to the table. When people from different backgrounds, with different life experiences and varying worldviews, come together, they approach problems from multiple angles, leading to more creative and effective solutions. A diverse leadership team is better equipped to navigate the complexities of an everchanging global market.

Second, diversity in executive roles is crucial for a company's ability to connect with its diverse customer base. In a world where consumers increasingly demand brands to be socially responsible and inclusive, having leadership that reflects this diversity is a strategic advantage. It can help companies build trust, develop more inclusive products and services, and tailor their marketing efforts more effectively.

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It also enhances employee engagement and retention. When employees see people who look like them in leadership roles, they are more likely to feel valued and included. This, in turn, boosts morale, productivity and loyalty. A diverse leadership team sends a powerful message that an organisation is committed to equal opportunities, which can lead to greater job satisfaction and a more positive workplace culture.

‘Studies consistently show that diverse executive teams make better decisions, foster innovation, and drive better financial results’ Despite the compelling case for diverse leadership, achieving it is often easier said than done. Barriers can be deeply rooted, and companies need to be proactive in breaking them down.

One major challenge is the “pipeline problem.”

Historically, executive positions have been dominated by certain demographics, making it difficult to find qualified candidates from underrepresented backgrounds. Companies can address this issue by implementing mentorship programmes, leadership development initiatives and targeted recruitment efforts to identify and nurture diverse talent within their organisations.

Bias in hiring and promotion processes is another significant obstacle. Unconscious biases can creep into decision-making at every level of an organisation. To combat this, companies are implementing training and awareness

programmes to help employees recognise and mitigate bias. Additionally, some organisations are using blind recruitment processes, where candidates are evaluated entirely based on their qualifications and experience rather than any personal characteristics.

Diversity goes beyond just filling quotas. It requires fostering an environment where all employees feel welcomed, valued and respected.

Companies must invest in diversity and inclusion programmes, offer support networks and actively engage employees in shaping the company's diversity initiatives.

Some companies have made significant strides in achieving a diverse leadership. For example, technology giants like Google, Apple and Microsoft have pledged to increase the diversity among senior leaders. They are setting specific targets and actively working to recruit and promote people from underrepresented groups.

Additionally, they are investing in educational programmes and partnerships with organisations that promote diversity in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) fields.

The finance industry, traditionally perceived as male dominated, is also making efforts to diversify. Several major banks and financial institutions have appointed diverse leaders to top positions, signalling a shift in the industry's culture. These organisations are not only striving for gender and racial diversity, but also diversity in terms of sexual orientation, disability and age.

Nonetheless, there is still much work to be done. Achieving diverse leadership in executive recruitment requires a sustained commitment, as it's not a problem that can be solved overnight.

Companies must consistently assess their progress, adjust their strategies, and remain accountable for achieving their diversity goals.

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FEATURE: MANUFACTURING

Innovating with Industry 4.0: A guide for Midlands manufacturing

By James Marshall, director at Marshall Mahoney, Ltd. he Midlands has historically been the powerhouse of innovation during the first Industrial Revolution, and today, it stands on the cusp of a new era with Industry 4.0. It’s a transformative period that introduces advanced digital technology into the manufacturing process, fostering a fundamental shift in operational, innovation, and competitive dynamics for local businesses. Industry 4.0 heralds a convergence of digital and physical systems, offering Midland’s businesses a chance to revamp their operations.

The local legacy of industrial strength serves as a fertile ground for adopting such cyberphysical systems, which are revolutionising traditional manufacturing concepts. This piece will explore the benefits and strategies for integrating intelligent manufacturing systems, thereby enabling the Midlands to adapt to production demands with enhanced efficiency and sustainability.

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techniques with the Internet of Things (IoT). In the Midlands, a historic bastion of industry, the adoption of IoT is transforming traditional production plants into dynamic, interconnected systems. These smart factories enable machines to communicate with each other and with human operators, leading to more informed decision-making and increased operational efficiency. With IoT implementation, Midlands’ manufacturers can monitor production processes in real time, swiftly adjust to changes, and predict when machines will need maintenance.

This shift not only enhances productivity but also elevates the competitiveness of businesses by providing greater agility and reliability, and by reducing costly downtimes.

Data analytics and machine learning as competitive edges In the data-rich environment of modern manufacturing, big data analytics and machine learning are vital for Midlands manufacturers to stay ahead. These technologies allow for the collection and analysis of large volumes of operational data, translating into actionable intelligence for better decision-making. With these insights, manufacturers can optimise their production lines for efficiency, predict when equipment will require maintenance to prevent failures, and refine their supply chain for maximum efficiency. The implementation of machine learning algorithms offers a competitive advantage, enabling the prediction of market trends and ensuring products meet current and future demands while maintaining a smooth operational flow.

The Human Aspect: empowering Midlands’ workforce for Industry 4.0 The progression to more complex manufacturing systems requires a workforce skilled in new and emerging technologies. The Midlands can leverage this transition by developing a workforce proficient in Industry 4.0 technologies. It

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FEATURE: MANUFACTURING suppliers, designers—within the Midlands to enhance supply chain efficiency and responsiveness. Such integration facilitates the sharing of real-time data across organisations, which can dramatically reduce the impact of disruptions and elevate supply chain agility, fostering a more robust and resilient industrial environment.

Prioritising cybersecurity in the age of digital manufacturing

involves investing in the education and training of current and future employees to manage advanced machinery and analysis tools. This preparation not only equips workers with the necessary skills but also promotes a culture of innovation and continuous improvement. By doing so, the workforce transitions from potential production bottlenecks to pivotal assets in realising the full potential of a technologically advanced manufacturing environment.

Customisation and manufacturing flexibility Customisation is defining the future of manufacturing, allowing businesses to offer tailored products to meet specific consumer demands. For Midlands manufacturers, this

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presents an opportunity to differentiate themselves in the market. Embracing digital tools that support customisation enables the creation of flexible and modular production systems. These systems can rapidly adapt to changing consumer preferences, allowing manufacturers to serve niche markets effectively and economically, thus enabling a higher level of service and product personalisation previously unattainable in mass production.

Enhancing collaboration and integrating supply chains Industry 4.0 fosters a collaborative ecosystem, with cloud computing as its core, to integrate different facets of manufacturing seamlessly. The strategic use of digital platforms can knit together various stakeholders—manufacturers,

The embrace of digital technology in manufacturing naturally expands the threat landscape, making cybersecurity a critical concern. For Midlands manufacturers, safeguarding digital infrastructure is crucial to protect sensitive data and intellectual property.

A strong cybersecurity framework is not just a protective measure but also a competitive necessity. It ensures the continuity of business operations and maintains consumer and stakeholder trust, which is invaluable in a digitally dependent industrial economy.

Embracing sustainable practices through technological innovation Sustainability is an increasingly central theme in manufacturing, with technology as its driving force. For Midlands manufacturers, sustainability is a strategic imperative that aligns with both ethical standards and business efficiency. The application of technology to improve resource efficiency and reduce the environmental impact of manufacturing processes not only meets regulatory and consumer demand for greener products but also drives down costs and opens new market opportunities.

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Commons leader gets update on tram progress The Leader of the House of Commons joined local leaders to mark significant track progress on the Wednesbury to Brierley Hill Metro extension during a visit to the future terminus of phase one of the scheme.

Penny Mordaunt was invited by West Midlands mayor Andy Street to see some of the tram tracks being laid in Flood Street by the Midland Metro Alliance. They were joined by Nicola Richards, MP for West Bromwich East, and Councillor Patrick Harley, leader of Dudley Council.

The visit came after Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) welcomed a £2.7bn investment into the region’s

transport infrastructure to fund a wide range of improvements.

An immediate £100m will enable TfWM, part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), to complete the second phase of the extension in full, taking trams from Dudley town centre to Brierley Hill High Street.

Andy Street said: “It’s great to see such tremendous progress being made on this much anticipated route - with funding now confirmed from Government to enable us to extend the metro route all the way through to Brierley Hill High Street.

“Large-scale public transport projects like this play a pivotal role

Leader of the House of Commons Penny Mordaunt joined Andy Street, Dudley Council leader Patrick Harley and representatives of the Midland Metro Alliance to see progress at Flood Street, Dudley

in boosting our regional economy creating highly skilled jobs and training opportunities for local people. I cannot wait to see residents benefitting from this fantastic new infrastructure in the months and years ahead.”

The Midland Metro Alliance, which is designing and delivering the scheme on behalf of TfWM, has been working in the Black Country town in phases since 2020 with the

Best customer experience: Cross Country Trains

Successful test for CVLR project The pioneering Coventry Very Light Rail (CVLR) project has achieved a major milestone with successful running of the vehicle on its test track at the Very Light Rail National Innovation Centre (VLRNIC) in Dudley.

The battery-powered vehicle and revolutionary track system will offer cities the chance to install rapid passenger tram systems faster and at a much lower cost than traditional light rail systems.

The innovative track is thinner than the track used in existing light rail or tram systems. As a result, it can be laid just 30cm deep into the road surface, reducing the need to divert all pipes and cables.

The project is backed with funding from the £1.05bn City Region Sustainable Transport Settlement (CRSTS) awarded to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) by the Department for Transport.

majority of track work now in place and the final elements in Flood Street set to be completed in the coming months.

Throughout 2024, 860 tonnes of entirely British-made track will be laid in the former railway corridor which makes up the majority of phase one of the route. The use of British steel on the project follows the mayor’s signing of the UK Steel Charter.

CrossCountry trains win best experience award CrossCountry Trains, whose national hub is in Birmingham, has been recognised as an Elite Award winner at the InMoment CX Elite Awards.

The rail service was named as having the best customer experience transformation in an awards ceremony in London.

The award recognises an organisation that has undergone a customer experience) (CX) transformation and demonstrated exceptional adaptability and resilience in the face of challenges while successfully transforming strategies and practices.

InMoment said in a statement: “CrossCountry continues to adapt to customer expectations within the rail industry.

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“What sets them apart is their steadfast commitment to listening to their customers and letting those voices and their insights support their strategy.

“Since the launch of their Voice of the Customer programme, they have incorporated real-time data collection to identify potential operational changes but also define and support their long-term vision.

“It's not just about where they stand in the market, but where they aim to go that truly drives their passion.

The goal is not merely to restore customer trust but to pioneer new approaches that will redefine customer satisfaction within the rail industry.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Support on offer for tech firms High growth West Midlands tech companies are being invited to apply for a 12-month export support initiative, fully-funded by the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC) and the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

The announcement comes as WMGC prepares to expand its successful Global Growth Programme, which supports West Midlands businesses in getting export-ready, as well as providing a comprehensive support package for international companies looking to grow in the region.

The new programme is the result of a unique partnership with London & Partners – London’s official investment promotion agency.

The collaboration sees London & Partners’ “Grow Global” programme expanded beyond the capital for the first time, providing exclusive access for ten ambitious West Midlands scale-ups.

The world-leading programme has served as a springboard for the global growth of numerous scaleups that are now household names, including Monzo, Bloom & Wild, Brompton Bicycles, Mr & Mrs Smith, Onfido, Elvie, InstaDeep, Revolut, Mindful Chef and Ocean Bottle.

The businesses will be selected to receive a range of benefits to help drive their overseas expansion.

This will include expert advice and guidance around shaping a 12-

Right option: Adam Rollason

Consultancy sold to EOT Left to right: Neil Rami, Janet Coyle, and Mayor Andy Street

month internationalisation plan, tailored to the company’s growth objectives.

Neil Rami, chief executive at the West Midlands Growth Company (WMGC), said: “To date, our Global Growth Programme has proven a resounding success, helping a number of the West Midlands’ high-growth tech firms to get their global export plans off the ground, while also helping international companies to kickstart their growth journey in the region.

“Through this unique partnership with London & Partners, our enhanced Global Growth Programme will enable us to build on these foundations, using our best-in-class expertise to support even more scale-ups with their eyes set on international expansion, or in taking their business to new heights right here in the region.”

Janet Coyle, managing director of Grow London at London & Partners, said: “As the West

Midlands is a global leader in investment and emerging technologies, partnering with the West Midlands Growth Company and inviting applications from export-focused scale-ups seemed like a logical step.

“I am eagerly anticipating the announcement of the 10 selected companies and working alongside them to shape their international growth strategies.”

West Midlands businesses from across the following sectors are invited to apply: • Business, professional and financial services • Creative and digital technologies • Life sciences • Low carbon For a company to apply, they must be an SME employing 10 or more staff, with a turnover (or total equity raised) of at least £1m, and able to demonstrate 20 per cent year-on-year growth.

Start-up boost vital for economy A sharp rise in the number of companies set up in the West Midlands is a welcome boost to the local economy, with the possibility of an increase in employment rates and business growth in the vital pre-Christmas trading period.

According to the Midlands branch of R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body, startups rose by 5.86 per cent in the West Midlands, from 5,998 in September to 6,351 in October. This was one of the highest numbers for start-up businesses in any UK region outside Greater London.

R3 Midland’s figures, which are based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe, also show a year-onyear rise of 10.63 per cent in the

West Midlands compared to October 2022, when start-ups numbered 5,741.

The R3 analysis also highlights a fall in the number of West Midlands companies with late payments on their books, a trend which has continued over the last six months.

Insolvency-related activity in the region has also decreased over the past month.

R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome said: “It is encouraging to see positive statistics for our region, particularly as trading conditions are so challenging at present. With the upcoming Christmas period a crucial time for so many firms, the data indicates that there is still scope for growth in the Midlands.

“The fall in companies with late payments is further good news for

Positive statistics: Stephen Rome

our region, however it should be noted that late payment figures remain relatively high and can pose a significant threat to a company’s health if not dealt with promptly.

“Should significant cash flow difficulties arise, it’s crucial for business owners to take professional advice as soon as possible. There is a significant amount which can be done to rescue and support local businesses, beyond traditional insolvency solutions, if help is taken early enough.”

Award-winning technology consultancy firm Griffiths Waite has been sold to an employee ownership trust (EOT) in a deal led by the transactions tax team at PKF Smith Cooper.

Griffiths Waite was cofounded by Mark Waite in 1994, starting out as an IT services provider, developing bespoke applications for its UK corporate client base.

In recent years, the success of the business has allowed it to diversify its service offering, providing the platform for its evolution into the digital product development business that exists today.

The EOT concept was born out of a government-backed initiative, designed to promote employee ownership, by giving all employees a significant and meaningful indirect stake in the business, including a say in how it is run.

The PKF team was led by tax partner Adam Rollason, who provided tax structuring advice on the deal, and sellside tax support to each of the selling shareholders.

Mr Waite said: “Prioritising the needs of our employees, while securing the long-term future of the business, has always been of the utmost importance to me. I am incredibly proud of what we have been able to achieve over the past 30 years, but it is time to start looking ahead to the next chapter, and I believe that this transaction sets us up nicely for that.

“The first-class advice and support we received from Adam and his team were instrumental in getting this transaction done, in fact, we have already recommended the team to others.”

Mr Rollason said: “I was delighted to advise Mark and his fellow shareholders on this transaction. It was clear to me that an EOT was the right option for all parties, and I am proud to be a small part of the transition to the new structure.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

Protecting against competitors Mental health specialist: Rebekah Sambrooks

Promotions at Anthony Collins Social purpose law firm Anthony Collins (AC) has announced the promotion of six senior associates and five associates across its specialist sectors, including social housing, charities and private legal services.

This is alongside promotions within the central management team across the firm.

The appointments span several of the B Corp accredited firm's specialist departments including clinical negligence and personal injury, property, family, projects, corporate litigation and the governance funding and corporate teams.

Senior associate promotions include Michael Nutman, a funding specialist in the governance, funding and corporate team, Nicola Woods in the clinical negligence and personal injury team, Emma Watt in the projects team, Rebecca Sembuuze in the housing litigation team and Liam Fitzgerald and Rhys Baker who both act on a wide range of property disputes.

At associate level, Rebekah Sambrooks, who specialises in mental health and Court of Protection Welfare law, Tom Gregory in the matrimonial team, Kirsty Duxbury who is a key part of the charities sector, Deborah Frost who advises on a range of in-housing related matters and Bethan Jones who is part of the housing litigation team, have all been promoted.

Phil Saunders, head of HR and office services at Anthony Collins, said: “We are pleased to announce these welldeserved promotions.

“Each individual will help to further strengthen the teams here at Anthony Collins and allow us to grow our work as a social purpose law firm and achieve our mission to improve lives, communities and society.

I look forward to seeing the contribution they bring to the firm and our clients.”

Employment law specialists at Mills & Reeve, Jameel Mann, principal associate, and Emma Williams, senior associate, look at problems which might occur when an employee joins a competitor.

Contract of employment We often see problems arise when employees leave a technology business and seek to use confidential information for the benefit of their new employer or attempt to take intellectual property.

It is therefore crucial that businesses have appropriately drafted contracts of employment in place to protect key assets and help mitigate the risks when employees leave.

How do I protect my key assets when a former employee goes to work for a competitor?

Restrictive covenants within contracts of employment can seek to prevent employees from undertaking certain activities when their employment comes to an end. This may include preventing them from joining competitors, poaching key staff or dealing with suppliers and customers for a period of time.

The importance of well-drafted restrictive covenants was highlighted in the case of Dyson Technology Ltd v Strutt. In this case, Dyson successfully obtained an injunction restraining a former engineer who had joined another company that designed and manufactured tools including vacuum cleaners from carrying on business or

Jameel Mann

Emma Williams

having an interest in a business that was similar to or competed with Dyson for 12 months.

Dyson had concerns about the individual disclosing confidential information to his new employer and the Restrictive Covenants enabled them to restrict the individual’s activities for a period that was long enough to protect those trade secrets.

What else should the contract of employment cover?

In certain roles, it is also likely that employees will create substantial intellectual property rights in the course of their employment. It is therefore vital that the contract is clear that any legal title will vest in the employer and necessary mechanisms are in place to transfer any such rights on termination in the event of a dispute.

Tight and robust confidentiality provisions that are tailored to your organisation and include steps required to return confidential information on termination should also be included.

Practical advice for your business Take the time to review your existing contracts of employment and ensure they are fit for purpose.

You may also wish to consider your approach in the event an employee leaves and joins a competitor. At the very least, we recommend reminding departing employees of these provisions and if necessary, confirming your intention to enforce them, if breached.

An exit interview is a good opportunity to flag this.

Family expert named chair of Resolution West Midlands Resolution, the national organisation for family justice professionals in England and Wales, has announced Birmingham lawyer Adam Maguire as the new chair of its West Midlands group.

A partner at national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, Adam Maguire takes the reins from outgoing chair Chris Lloyd-Smith, to head up the regional subcommittee of the organisation which covers Birmingham, the Black Country, Wolverhampton and Worcester.

Adam is a former president of Future Faces, the young professionals arm of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Resolution provides training and educational resources to members, ensuring they can support families and individuals during difficult times whilst also promoting alternative methods of dispute resolution which helps families find more amicable solutions and avoid the costs and acrimony associated with court. There are also networking opportunities.

The organisation advocates a non-confrontational approach to resolving family law issues and also lobbies for a fairer family justice system.

Adam, who has acted as vice-chair of Resolution since 2021, said: “I am really passionate about helping people navigate family law issues in a constructive, nonconfrontational way. This includes supporting individuals themselves and providing legal representatives with the Helping people: Adam Maguire right tools and resources to facilitate this.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

Don’t let alcohol spoil Christmas Alcohol at work Christmas parties can cause a raft of problems from inclusivity issues to serious sexual misconduct and employers should consider switching to more sedate alternatives.

That’s the opinion of Higgs LLP employment law expert Katherine Cooke, who said the firm sees a surge of disciplinary cases as a hangover of festive excess on workorganised dos.

Katherine said: “Christmas parties that revolve around alcohol have always led to an increase in problems that need to be resolved.

“In December and January we often see a surge in businesses asking for disciplinary advice around bad behaviour on various levels, including physical violence and discriminatory comments.

“There is an obvious correlation between the amount of drinking that happens at an event and the number of problems experienced.

Some of our clients who have scrapped their free bar policy have noticed a clear improvement in staff behaviour.”

Katherine said some employees do not appreciate that poor conduct at the Christmas party can lead to disciplinary proceedings.

“Christmas parties are work events so employers can be liable for employee actions during those events and employees can face disciplinary consequences for their actions. We’d recommend sending an email to all staff before the event clearly setting out behavioural expectations and responsibilities.

‘Christmas parties are work events so employers can be liable for employee actions during those events’ “There is also a duty of care owed to employees to look after their safety at work-related events.

It is a good idea to risk assess an event beforehand and consider measures like arranging or reimbursing transport home. At least one senior person should be nominated to remain sober to keep an eye out for colleagues.”

Katherine said there have been cases that have reached Tribunal arising from management

discussions of pay rises while caught up in the excitement of the event, which employees have then challenged legally when the offer hasn’t materialised.

Katherine's warnings come as new research from Easy Offices showed 34 per cent of UK employees avoid work socials because they know alcohol is going to be there. Furthermore, 43 per cent of UK workers said they feel pressure to drink at work socials - but, despite this, 84 per cent of work socials involve alcohol.

“Having alcohol-centred events also raises inclusivity issues. It can create isolation.

I would encourage businesses to be more creative by incorporating more team-based activities into a Christmas event, to change the focus from only the food and drink.

“Try to create events that are accessible to all – not just those who enjoy a knee’s up.”

Drink warning: Katherine Cooke

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Pickford Solicitors celebrate large-scale pharmacy sales project

ickford’s corporate team are known for being health care specialists and has assisted customers across England and Wales with nursery, care home, pharmacy, domiciliary care agency and dental transactions.

Their main focus over the past few years were people buying and selling children’s nursery settings and care homes.

P

However, this changed in 2022 as Lloyds Pharmacy Group announced they would be selling all of their pharmacy branches.

As pharmacy experts, they saw huge demand from buyers all over the UK including County Durham in the North, Hampshire in the South, Wales in the West and Lincolnshire in the East.

Their customers included existing customers, referrals from Hutchings Pharmacy Brokers and word of mouth referrals from other pharmacists.

Pickford has been involved in over 100 purchases, acting for first time buyers as well as existing and developing regional pharmacy chains.

As the Lloyds transactions reached a peak, Jas on the corporate side and Arti, who deals with property aspects, continued to work on purchases and sales in transactions not involving the big pharmacy chains, and also purchases from Rowlands and Boots.

The firm’s talented trainees were involved as project managers to coordinate between buyers and sellers, between the corporate department and the commercial property team and between borrowers and their lenders. This was a huge opportunity for Aisha and Lauren, who are due to qualify in 2024 and 2025 respectively.

Jas, Arti, Aisha and Lauren (pictured) have, through the Lloyds transactions, significantly extended Pickford’s network of pharmacy sector clients and are now turning to post completion refinancings, lease extensions and group reorganisations.

Here’s what some of their customers had to say: “Brilliant service from Jas, Arti and Aisha. From the initial query, to timely answers and replies to emails, the whole transaction was handled really smoothly. Well done to the team and thank you!”

Earls Barton Pharmacy – Northamptonshire “We have just completed a pharmacy sale with Pickford. I can’t thank Lauren Thornton enough she worked very hard to ensure completion was done on time communicating throughout.”

Rahul Taneja - Wales

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

AI innovation pioneered by university

In the mix (left to right): chief operating officer Jack Sykes, CEO Dominik Werner, chief technology officer Leonard Nicusan, and chief scientific officer Dr Kit Windows-Yule

University of Birmingham Enterprise has announced the launch of EvoPhase, an AI systems which delivers services to optimise existing and new process equipment that mixes, blends, stores, or stirs granular materials.

EvoPhase will use evolutionary AI algorithms, coupled with simulations of particulates in systems such as industrial mixers, to evolve an optimised design for the mixing blade, and the shape or size of the blending vessel.

This AI-led evolutionary design approach is applicable to a diverse range of process equipment, including mills, dryers, roasters, coaters, fluidised beds, stirred tanks and is expected to produce huge cost and energy savings for industry.

EvoPhase has been set up using a model of commercialisation known as an Operating Division, which allows industry rapid access to flexible, cutting-edge services from Birmingham’s academic innovators.

Founders chief executive officer Dominik Werner, chief technology officer Leonard Nicusan, chief operating officer Jack Sykes, and chief scientific officer Dr Kit Windows-Yule, are from Birmingham’s School of Chemical Engineering.

Dominik Werner said: “Up to 50 per cent of the world’s products are created by processes that use granular materials, but granules are difficult to characterise or understand.

“If you consider coffee, its granules are solid when they are contained, like a liquid when poured out of the container, and become gas-like and dispersed if you blow on them. This type of variability means granules are the most complex form of matter to process.”

The team will use a novel AI technology called highly-autonomous rapid prototyping for particulate processes (HARPPP), which works like natural selection, testing out designs it has evolved to come up with to find the best one. It allows the user to set multiple parameters for optimisation, allowing evolution of a design that will meet, for instance, targets on power draw, throughput and mixing rate, rather than trading these parameters off against each other.

EvoPhase will also use a numerical method called DEM (discrete element method), which predicts the behaviours of granular materials by computing the movement of all particles. These computations can be validated using positron emission particle tracking (PEPT), another technique invented at Birmingham, which is a variant of the medical imaging technique positron emission tomography (PET).

Leonard Nicusan said: “Our approach is suitable for designing powder, granule and fluid processing equipment across all industries, where it will deliver cost savings by increasing energy efficiency, mixing effectiveness and throughput.”

Developer completes new SMART building Enterprise Wharf, Birmingham’s first truly SMART building, has reached completion marking a major milestone for Bruntwood SciTech, the UK’s leading developer of city-wide innovation ecosystems and specialist environments.

The EPC A rated, 10-storey, 120,000 sq ft building has been developed for innovative occupiers to offer an innately tech-enabled environment to its users.

The embedded SMART building infrastructure will optimise user experience and wellbeing, reduce emissions and lower operational costs.

Through its smart building blueprint, Enterprise Wharf can offer more than 90 user experiences across the building, creating a significantly improved environment and working experience than would typically be experienced in any other office space.

New technologies, including state-of-the-art “Internet of Things” sensors, have been embedded throughout the building, forming a central “nervous system” that will provide insights into people flow, energy usage and temperature within different areas of workspaces.

Where most buildings’ systems work in independent silos, Enterprise Wharf will provide

businesses with much greater visibility of what’s happening in the building, with immediate access to data allowing for real-time response to any customer or visitor challenges that arise.

The building will also use air source heat pumps and significant solar panelling to aid its ESG objectives.

Smart thinking: Enterprise Wharf

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Other key features of the landmark gateway building into Birmingham city centre are a large, open plan reception and collaboration space, cycle storage, space for electric vehicle charging, showers and a private roof garden with stunning views over the city.

Businesses taking advantage of Enterprise Wharf’s SMART Grade A

workspace will also benefit from its location within Bruntwood SciTech’s Innovation Birmingham campus.

The completion doubles the capacity of Innovation Birmingham, which is home to more than 120 start-ups, scale-ups and global businesses across fintech, cyber security, AR, VR, blockchain, sports tech, edtech, and other tech and digital sub-sectors.

The new investment makes Bruntwood SciTech the largest dedicated property platform serving the UK’s innovation economy, and it has plans to create a £5bn UK-wide portfolio that can support 2,600 high-growth businesses by 2032.

Rob Valentine, regional director at Bruntwood SciTech, said: “Birmingham is playing an increasingly vital role in the UK economy as an incubator for innovative businesses across the digital, tech and life science sectors.

“There is huge potential for further inward investment and growth here, and Enterprise Wharf is uniquely positioned to capitalise on that.

“Birmingham and the wider West Midlands forms a key pillar of Bruntwood SciTech’s strategic focus and with our new investment, we will continue to provide and increase much-needed infrastructure and support for the growth of the innovation sector.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

Flexeserve first: Cloud connectivity

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY Vision: How the water garden at Smithfield might look

New Smithfield plans revealed Feedback from the public is now being fed into Birmingham City Council deliberations on changes to the designs of a landmark scheme planned for Smithfield Birmingham.

Designs were shared ahead of an updated planning application, which is due to be considered by the Council’s planning committee in early 2024. Plans for the 17-hectare development in the heart of the city include more than 3,000 new homes and have the potential to create major economic opportunities, including 9,000 new jobs.

The designs have changed to address an objection from Historic England to the planning application; and respond to changes as a result of the Building Safety Act. Changes to the designs include: • Festival Square, now called ‘Manor Square’, has been relocated to sit above the buried moat and manor house to celebrate the importance of the site as the birthplace of Birmingham.

• The markets have been split into two plots with one plot consisting of an indoor market, dining hall, restaurant and event space; while

the second plot will home the open and rag market. The new location has been designed to avoid building over the buried archaeology of the moat and manor house while retaining their historic location close to St Martin’s Church.

• Culture and music facilities will now be located in one building instead of separate buildings, on the southern corner of Manor Square.

• The footprint and height of some of the residential buildings has changed to address upcoming changes to the Building Safety Act. • Changes to the public space include increased tree planting in Manor Square, retaining existing trees on Edgbaston Street, shortening upper Dean Street to accommodate the new layout of the markets and ensure a direct connection between the Markets and Manor Square.

Colin Murphy, project lead on Smithfield Birmingham for Lendlease, said: “We held public meetings and make information about the proposed changes available online as early as we

Prime Park units on track for completion New trade and warehouse units for occupiers including Greggs and self-storage operator Sure Store are taking shape at Prime Park in Great Barr, Birmingham.

The steels are up, and the roofs are going on at the speculative development of 10 energy efficient units totalling 72,000 sq ft.

Legal & General’s specialist industrial fund IPIF and Prime Box are responsible for the scheme situated on 3.4 acres of brownfield land on Hamstead Hill near the new Lidl food store.

KWB’s Kenny Allan, one of the agents marketing the site, said:

“Progress is going well on site and we’re on track for a Spring 2024 completion.”

Prime Park is a prominent roadside opportunity just four miles north of Birmingham city centre and is well served by public transport. It is close to the main A34 arterial route and junction 6 of the M6 motorway.

All the units will benefit from roof solar photo voltaic panels (PVs) and electric charging for cars and vans. Units 7-9 will have first floor fitted offices and will benefit from air source heat pumps, and LED lighting. Eaves heights are six

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possibly could before submitting the changes to the planning application.

“We’re fully committed to building trust and a strong relationship with local communities in Birmingham. Their perspectives are essential as we look to take this scheme forward.”

A market has operated at Smithfield for over 800 years and the revised plans still provide a new home for the city’s historic Bull Ring markets. Smithfield Birmingham will form an iconic new centrepiece for the city centre and the vision for the project is of a sustainable, green and inclusive place with people at the heart of a zero-carbon development.

Smithfield Birmingham will drive opportunities for the city’s economy, create new cultural and leisure attractions, vibrant retail markets and space for start-ups, small business and entrepreneurs. It will be a distinctive place that reflects the area’s rich history with high quality architecture, a network of green infrastructure, public spaces and a dynamic new residential neighbourhood.

Queries about the plans can be emailed to: hello@smithfield.co.uk

Work underway: Prime Park Birmingham

metres for Units 1-5 and eight metres on Units 7-9. Contractor A&H Construction is building the development.

Other units are under offer, so for more details on the remaining net

zero carbon units to let, contact Kenny Allan at KWB: kallan@kwboffice.com /07785 2450203 or Mark Fitzpatrick of Johnson Fellows: mark.fitzpatrick@johnsonfellows .co.uk /07305 335 286

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

Funding boost for training One of the UK’s leading independent training providers has secured a £429,000 boost for delivering advanced engineering and manufacturing skills.

In-Comm Training, which already supports 865 apprentices and over 2,500 learners, has been awarded Higher Level Skills funding by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) in a bid to help industry bridge the skills and competency gaps.

Accessed via the Training & Manufacturing Group (TMG), up to 126 learners in the WMCA area will be able to tap into modularised units for the first time. The bespoke courses will be delivered at state-of-the-art technical academies in Aldridge and Telford and give individuals the opportunity to study specific modules of the Level 35 Engineering & Management programmes tailored to ensure job progression and sustainable employment.

Gareth Jones, managing director of In-Comm Training, said: “This is the flexible type of training we have been looking to deliver for some time and the WMCA funding has now made it possible for skilled engineers to upskill even further.”

The Higher Level Skills funding is available for any existing workers who live in the West Midlands Combined Authority area and looking to embark on Level 3 or higher training in engineering and manufacturing. The In-Commbacked Training & Manufacturing Group is a collection of 100 likeminded businesses bound by a commitment to achieve world class best practices and futureproof training to boost UK industry.

Clare Hatton, interim director for employment, skills, health and communities at the WMCA, said: “We’re delighted to have In-Comm Training onboard to deliver higher level skills training in engineering and manufacturing to our residents and employers.

“Through our Plan for Growth, we have highlighted Advanced Manufacturing as a cluster set to see accelerated growth over the next 10 years and this modularised approach will play an important part of the skills response to support this growth.”

Action: Sador Zerie on the set of This Town

Bootcamp graduate lands job on TV show Since going on a TV production skills course funded by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), Sador Zerie’s career has catapulted to such an extent that the 24-year-old found himself working behind the camera on This Town – the upcoming drama from Peaky Blinders creator and fellow Brummie Steven Knight.

Sador is one of more than 70,000 people across the West Midlands who have undergone WMCA courses to learn the skills they need to find employment, progress at work or even change careers.

Sador, from Quinton, graduated from Birmingham City University with a BA in film making and followed this with freelance music video production, shooting documentaries and some commercial work.

But he then decided to complete the Create Central TV production skills bootcamp, delivered by Solihull College & University Centre and funded by the WMCA, in a bid to focus his skills and further develop his career opportunities.

Following completion of the bootcamp, Sador was offered the opportunity to work as a camera trainee on Steven Knight’s BBC drama, This Town and then on to another show ‘Legacy’ for Apple TV. Sador said: “Completing the TV Production bootcamp gave me a realistic approach to entering the film and TV industry and offered opportunities that I

would otherwise most likely not be presented with while doing my freelance work. One of the great things about the bootcamp is being able to do placements – I got to work on a show for Tiger Aspect/ITVX – Deep Fake Neighbour Wars – which helped me to build up my network and get me noticed by other production companies for my skills.”

Ed Shedd, Create Central chair, said: "Our pioneering skills bootcamps reflect the unwavering dedication of the West Midlands to fostering talent within the creative content industries.

“With support from the WMCA and training providers like Solihull College and University Centre, Create Central is committed to breaking down barriers for creative individuals from underrepresented backgrounds, empowering them to embark on promising careers in this growing sector."

Sophie Jolly, Bootcamp manager at Solihull College and University Centre, said: “Sador's success demonstrates how the combination of incredible talent and bespoke training on our Bootcamps work together to produce stunning outcomes. Bootcamp training in Production and Skills Development paves the way for new opportunities in the creative world of production.”

This Town is a high-octane thriller and a family saga set in 1981 at a time of huge social tensions and unrest.

It is due to be aired on BBC and BBC iPlayer next year.

New board to tackle skills gap More than 60 high-profile business leaders and industry professionals from across the Midlands gathered at University College Birmingham to help shape policy, combine research and bring fresh ideas to address the region’s skills gap.

Centre for the New Midlands (CNM) - a not-for-profit thinktank officially launched the ‘People and Skills Workstream’, which brought together business leaders, regional leaders and policymakers, and prominent academics to discuss how best to address the region’s skills shortages. Following the launch of the West Midlands Plan for Growth by the West Midlands Combined Authority last year, where key areas for economic growth were highlighted, the priority skills needed to support that growth form the heart of this new workstream’s focus.

Chaired by Megan Cooper, principal business development lead at Serco, the workstream brings together key representatives from across sectors and the region as a representative leadership board. The board will consider the

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impact of greater devolution and the opportunity this creates to tackle issues such as social mobility, creating a talent pipeline aligned to emerging needs and support for all workers in adapting to the changing nature of work and the regional economy.

José Lopes, pro vice-chancellor (external affairs) from University College Birmingham, said: “Being at the forefront of offering skills-focused training and education in our region makes us well placed to lead in these discussions and emphasise the

importance of working with universities and colleges to address regional skills gaps.”

Delegates included leaders of local businesses such as Balfour Beatty and Mott MacDonald, as well as the Department of Education and West Midlands Combined Authority’s productivity and skills officers. Richard Parker, Labour Party candidate for West Midlands mayor and The Rt Hon Anne Milton, former Minister of State for Apprenticeships and Skills, were guest speakers.

Tackling the skills gap (left to right): Jose Lopes, Anne Millon, Richard Parker and Chris Smith from CNM

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Safer software to provide critical security A group of Birmingham-based tech founders are uniting to provide businesses with cuttingedge software designed to make outsourcing a safer process.

Following a concerning increase in the cost of data breaches, Cude gives businesses the tools to protect key business information and IP. Founded by a group of seasoned AI and tech experts, the Birmingham-based company aims to tackle the reported 15 per cent increase in cost of data breaches and provide businesses with a safer way of introducing outsourcing through real-time monitoring and detailed encryption measures.

Headed by CEO James Alabi, CTO Bamidele Popoola, and COO Laurentiu Nae, Cude marks the next step in protecting businesses from digital threats and data mismanagement.

With the help of AI, the platform will aim to combat the potentially catastrophic costs associated with high-level data breaches.

But other outsourcing issues such as scope creep and fair pay can be managed through Cude’s game-changing tech.

‘Cude marks the next step in protecting businesses from digital threats and data mismanagement’ CEO James Alabi said: “I can speak for the whole team when I say that we’re excited to introduce Cude to the world. In Birmingham, we’ve been working incredibly hard to give businesses a tool that reduces risk and helps business owners focus on the important things.

The Cude senior team: James Alabi with Bamidele Popoola and Laurentiu Nae

“The digital landscape offers endless opportunity for businesses, but the risk involved is either putting businesses under unnecessary stress or putting businesses off outsourcing altogether. Our platform will provide businesses with a safe and credible path into outsourcing and

support them in their business growth journey.

“We hope the introduction of Cude marks a step towards a safer, more connected future for business in the West Midlands and beyond.”

Cude is currently open for early access registration and will be widely available in 2024.

New way to recycle batteries developed University of Birmingham researchers have announced a new approach for recycling the highest value component of end-of-life electric car batteries, the battery cathode, that is less energy-intensive and uses less hazardous chemicals than current recycling methods.

Their novel method uses organic acid such as ascorbic acid (Vitamin C) as a leaching agent, and has been tested on cathode material from a first generation Nissan Leaf battery cell that had powered 40,000 miles of driving.

The results of this testing, published in ChemRxiV, demonstrated that ascorbic acid selectively leaches low-value electrode material (lithium manganese oxide), and leaves the higher value nickel and cobalt-based material in a solid state, from which it can be directly recycled.

The new method has considerable potential for simplifying battery recycling, which currently concentrates on recycling elements by dissolving battery cathodes using strong acids.

This poses an additional conundrum of disposal of potentially hazardous waste from the recycling process. Moreover, it relies on the initial shredding of the batteries, which mixes components and creates a jumble of chemistries that can only be separated by chemical processes.

The new leaching method was invented by Professor Peter Slater, Professor Paul Anderson, and Dr Laura Driscoll from Birmingham’s School

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Looking for partners: Professor Peter Slater

of Chemistry and has been patented by University of Birmingham Enterprise.

Their research is part of the ReLiB (Recycling and Reuse of EV Lithium-ion Batteries) project, a multi-institution consortium of researchers funded by the Faraday Institution and led by the University of Birmingham, which aims to improve the speed, economics and the environmental footprint of recycling processes.

Professor Slater said: “Battery chemistry, and cathode chemistry in particular, is constantly evolving to meet the demand for greater energy density.

“However, battery recycling has remained relatively static, and has focused on breaking down the cathodes into their individual element components particularly when recycling mixed chemistries, which loses a lot on the internal value of the cathode material.

“The challenge with recycling mixed chemistries is to separate out the low and highvalue materials. Our method removes the lowvalue material, while leaving the high-value material in a solid state, so it can be directly recycled, maintaining its high value.”

The research team started their research from a real-world perspective, by looking at what is actually going into recycling chains.

They chose a battery from a Nissan Leaf, as this car was the first mass-market electric vehicle, and both cars and batteries will be among the first to enter recycling chains, and the recycling industry.

Professor Slater added: “Our method will reduce the cost and number of steps to recover cathode materials, so they can be remanufactured and put back into new batteries, with minimal environmental footprint.”

The research team is now working on scaling up this approach, and is looking for long-term partners for pilot studies, deliver this technology to existing infrastructure, or collaborate on further research to develop the system.

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

Celebrating Amy: The Amy Winehouse Band with singer Bronte Shandé

Art gallery to mark 60th year

B:Music reveals packed programme for winter B:Music has launched a wideranging winter programme that will include a celebration of the 20th anniversary of Amy Winehouse releasing her acclaimed debut album ‘Frank’.

The charity responsible for Symphony Hall and Town Hall will welcome Amy’s original band The Amy Winehouse Band on 21 December at the Town Hall, featuring the musicians who stood alongside her on stages all around the world who will play the album in full.

The band will be led by her long-term musical director and bass player Dale Davis and fronted by the incredible young vocalist Bronte Shandé as they celebrate Amy’s era-defining music and live performances.

In December, there is plenty of live music to choose from, with everything from the awardwinning British Police Symphony

Orchestra to Roachford. And January marks the return of the Classic Rock Show, as well as Wet, Wet, Wet & Go West.

Strictly Come Dancing’s Janette Manrara and Aljaž Škorjanec take to the Symphony Hall stage with their show Dancing in a Winter Wonderland with Aljaz and Janette (10 December).

B:Music also provides laughs with comedy A-listers. For one night only it’s five comedians for the price of one at Town Hall, as Live at Christmas (13 December) returns for a spectacular all-star festive show.

The Cory Band will present a programme of immersive music and dazzling multimedia entertainment in A Cory Trilogy – Episode I: The Curtain Rises (3 December).

The London Concert Orchestra with conductor Anthony Inglis will perform the annual New Year’s Eve

Gala (31 December), a Symphony Hall tradition of great classics and fun to bring in 2024.

Legendary DJ Gary Davies brings the UK’s popular 80s radio show, BBC Radio 2’s Sounds of the 80s: The Live Tour (31 December) to Symphony Hall for a special New Year’s Eve celebration.

Sounds of the 80s dancers will recreate classic scenes from 80s films and music videos, with Carole Decker (T’Pau) among the guest singers.

Toscana Strings will perform The Snowman and The Nutcracker (17 December) and the acclaimed touring production of Shark in the Park, the enchanting winter tale of Oh No! Shark In the Snow! will take place from 27 December to 7 January.

To see the full programme and to book tickets, visit www.bmusic.co.uk

Lord of the Dance makes return The world-renowned Lord of the Dance is to make a return to The Alexandra, Birmingham, from 30 September to 6 October 2024.

After celebrating the 25th anniversary of Lord of the Dance in 2022, Michael Flatley is back with a dazzling revival of his iconic dance extravaganza. The 2024 tour promises to be an extraordinary journey that will captivate audiences again with this record-breaking show.

Lord of the Dance, a production that has enchanted over 60 million people in 60 countries on every continent and graced more than 1000 venues, is a testament to Michael Flatley’s creative brilliance.

The Irish dancing icon embarked on his final tour in 2016, performing on stage for the last time at Caesar's Colosseum in Las Vegas. However, he has continued as the show’s creator, producer, and choreographer.

He said: “The magic of Lord of the Dance lives on in the hearts of our audience, and I am thrilled to bring

World-renowned: Lord of the Dance is back at The Alexandra next year

this iconic show back to the Birmingham in 2024. It’s a testament to the enduring power of dance and the indomitable spirit of the human soul.

“In 2024, this extraordinary experience for fans will feature new staging, fresh choreography, new costumes, cutting-edge technology, and special effects lighting.”

Ikon, Birmingham’s internationally acclaimed contemporary art gallery, has announced plans for 2024, its 60th anniversary year.

Established as an artists-led alternative space in the Bullring in 1964, Ikon remains free to all and committed to showcasing the very best of British and international art.

In the Spring, a vintage printing press, on loan from Wolverhampton School of Art, will form the centrepiece of a print exhibition with Jerwood Foundation. A traditional means of production is contrasted with a major offsite digital commission, by Ikon in partnership with The Exchange, University of Birmingham, in response to The Stuart Hall Archive Project.

In Summer 2024, Ikon will be a partner in National Treasures 2024, The National Gallery’s Bicentenary celebration, for which Ikon hosts Artemisia Gentileschi’s Self Portrait as Saint Catherine of Alexandria (about 1615-17).

Also in the Summer, Ikon partners with English Heritage to commission an artist’s response to the J. W. Evans silver factory in Birmingham’s historic Jewellery Quarter with support from the Foundation Foundation. The autumn/winter programme features an exhibition with the British Council Collection and macLYON: Friends in Love and War/Meilleur·es ennemi·es.

Ikon’s education programme addresses key social issues while championing arts education, often working offsite with artists to collaborate with communities. Ikon’s artist residency Art at HMP Grendon, supported by the Marie-Louise von Motesiczky Charitable Trust, enters its 10th year with a focus on the development of artistic practice within a dedicated studio space at the prison.

Ikon Youth Programme (IYP), funded by Freelands Foundation, reflects on its navigation of the waterways on board Slow Boat, offering an alternative curriculum against the backdrop of funding cuts to arts education.

Ikon’s partnership with the School of Education, University of Birmingham, continues with a series of Teacher Twilights that challenge assumptions about migration, breaking down institutional and intercommunal barriers within the classroom.

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Care provider gives back to grassroots sport Select Lifestyles, a leading care provider, has supported the local community by giving £8,900 to grassroots sports teams in 2023.

Through the sponsorships, Select Lifestyles supports five football clubs and one rugby club, across children’s and adults’ teams. The clubs include Paget Rangers Football Club, Merry Go Round Albion, Broadway FC, Tipton Town FC, Brownhills Community Colts and Aston Old Edwardians.

In addition, the West Bromwichbased business also supports judo champion of Great Britain Kelly Peterson Pollard, and is a Silver Sponsor of West Bromwich Albion, supporting both the men’s and

women’s teams at The Hawthorns for the 2023/24 season.

Nick Horton, managing director at Select Lifestyles, said: “Supporting the community is very important to us and we’re proud to do this through our sponsorships of grassroots sports across the West Midlands.

“Sport isn’t just about the competition on the pitch – it means so much more to those who play and coach. It has the power to unite communities and provide vital physical and mental health support, and it means a lot to us that we can play a part in this through our support.”

Support (left to right): Elliot Horton, Les Trumpeter, Craig Williams and Nick Horton.

Craig Williams, 1XV manager at Aston Old Edwardians, one of the teams benefiting from Select Lifestyles’ support, added: “We’re very grateful to Select Lifestyles for their sponsorship of our men’s and women’s first teams, playing a vital role in helping us to keep the club going.

“This year, funds from the sponsorship have allowed us to

purchase two sets of match wear, one Veo Sports Camera and one season’s subscription to editing rights – things that we wouldn’t have been able to buy without Select Lifestyles’ support.”

To find out more about Select Lifestyles visit selectlifestyles.co.uk

Celebration: Sport 4 Life at the BirminghamAwards

Top honour goes to Sport 4 Life UK Leading charity Sport 4 Life UK clinched a top accolade at the celebrated Birmingham Awards at Villa Park.

Sport 4 Life UK, a charity dedicated to transforming the lives of young people through sport, was awarded the coveted title of Sporting Initiative of the Year.

The Birmingham Awards recognise and celebrate outstanding achievements across various sectors, highlighting the exceptional contributions of organisations and individuals in the region.

The accolade recognised Sport 4 Life UK’s commitment to fostering positive change through sports thanks to its innovative initiatives.

CEO and founder Tom Clarke-Forrest, of Sport 4 Life UK, said: “We are incredibly honoured to receive the Birmingham Award for Sporting Initiative of the Year. This recognition is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team and the young people we serve.

“Sport has the power to inspire and transform lives, and we are committed to continuing our mission of making a positive impact in our community.”

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CHAMBERLINK

Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Alison Delaney Company: Little Bird People Development Job Title: Founder and director

What does your company do?

Management consultancy supporting organisations to bring their values to life through the consistent demonstration of positive behaviours creating healthy cultures where people can thrive.

What has surprised you most in your job?

The continued level of fulfilment through learning tough lessons, applying new ways of working and experiencing tangible results. I’m far more resilient than I ever imagined.

How did it all start?

As a leadership development consultant within Virgin Media I saw many providers miss the mark in relation to personalised engagement leading to sustainable behavioural change.

I decided I’d do it differently.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Don’t measure yourself against others. Believe in your passion and commit to turning it into your legacy by doing it your way.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Self-publishing three children’s books supporting my awardwinning educational programme “Little Chicks Life Lessons” for primary school children. We’ve provided 30,000 books contributing to improved literacy skills.

What is the biggest risk you’ve ever taken – and did it work out?

Taking the plunge to launch my own business during a recession.

I didn’t have the same concerns as many, just big dreams, passion and a plan.

What keeps you awake at night?

The menopause!

This is a phase of my life I completely under-estimated and the menopause is to be taken seriously.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

I’d get a business mentor and an accountant who educates their clients at the beginning of my journey. I experienced dips that could’ve been avoided.

Which business do you most admire?

Gymshark. Ben’s inspirational journey shows us anything’s possible with the right amount of passion, a great product and sound mentorship.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

The expansion of “Little Chicks Life Lessons” and gaining new corporate sponsors who want to demonstrate their social value impact in their local primary schools.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

Everyone I spoke to about building a network steered me in the direction of GBCC. The connections I’ve made and the relationships I’ve built have been invaluable.

Tel: 07855755807 Visit: www.littlebirdpeople development.org.uk

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CHAMBERLINK

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CHAMBERLINK

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Introducing Del Bosque Global (part of the Del Bosque Group)

A new era in project delivery has arrived! ur mission is to deliver world class consultancy services that provide custom solutions, supporting our clients by applying our depth of experience, expertise and lessons learned from around the world. Our goal is simply to provide avenues for success for all parties regardless of the solutions or services provided.

O

Why the new name?

As mentioned in the November issue of Chamberlink, there was a need to reconcile the name with our vision to become a worldwide leader in our sector for both retail and commercial assets. We also wanted to align the Del Bosque Group branding and leverage our existing and future relationships.

Who we are Our team has over 80 years’ combined experience in the delivery of various development assets across three continents for both the investors and occupiers. We have worked on various high profile, complex, multi-phase projects including some of the largest development projects worldwide.

• Construction management • Master planning • Design review • White boxing • Re-purposing existing assets

Where we are Our base of operations is in the heart of the Midlands giving us reach throughout the United Kingdom, Europe and the Middle East. We are currently working in the United Kingdom, the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia and the United Arab Emirates.

Now for the exciting news…

Because of our current client base, we needed to show a local commitment to the various project teams in the Middle East by expanding our footprint. We are opening offices in Dubai by the end of December 2023 and into Riyadh by the end of Q1 2024.

When asked about the move to the Middle East, Scott Strader (pictured below), DB Global

Managing Director, put it simply: “If we are not where the exciting projects are then we have completely missed the boat.”

Sean Bryne (pictured above), Group CEO, added: “With our combined experience working in KSA and the UAE it is a great investment in our business moving forward.” This was a unanimous decision by the board.

Contact us today to learn more about what we do and how we can help you manage your projects: Email: db@delbosque.co.uk Website: www.delbosque.co.uk Please follow our LinkedIn page to keep up with our journey: www.linkedin.com/company/del-bosque-ltd

What we do We are not a bolt-on to construction or architecture consultancy offers but rather a specialised solution-based group that develops and delivers both retail and commercial space for both landlords and tenants.

We execute the various phases through consistent processes, management and reporting to identify and mitigate risk that result in successful outcomes. Our services include: • Project management • Development management December 2023/January 2024 CHAMBERLINK 87

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

New Members Your guide to new sign-ups

Whatever your business size and requirements, the Chamber has a membership scale to suit your needs.

For more information visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/membership

Cake Layers PURMILLA BHATTI www.cakelayers.co.uk Manufacture of bread; manufacture of fresh pastry goods and cakes Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

ReVybe IT Recruitment Ben Whitmarsh 07745 364497 revybeit.co.uk Other activities of employment placement agencies Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Sherlock's House Ltd Jinxiang O’Brien 07906281003 www.sherlockshouse.co.uk Hotels and similar accommodation Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Citibase Emily Bock 0121 392 8190 citibase.com Management of real estate on a fee or contract basis Solihull Chamber of Commerce

The Blighty Furniture Company Limited Paul Grassick 0121 720 6888 www.emeldagrace.co.uk Manufacture of other furniture Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Colden Human Resources Patricia Colden 0121 284 0852 www.coldenhr.co.uk Human resources provision and management of human resources functions Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce Drayton Manor Resort Limited Kirsty Nicholls 01827 252400 www.draytonmanor.co.uk Activities of amusement parks and theme parks Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Insightful Group Vic Beaumont +447813335701 www.insightfulgroup.co.uk Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Murphy Geospatial Catharina Hartmans 0203 598 3775 murphygs.com Engineering related scientific and technical consulting activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Everyman Media LTD Claire Millar 0121 296 7613 www.everymancinema.com/mailboxbirmingham#venueDetails Motion picture projection activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Kenneth Jones Solicitors Ajaz Ali Solicitors Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

New England Engineering Limited Jeffrey Hill 0121 5449867 www.newengland.co.uk Wholesale of machine tools Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Highfield Insurance Abid Khan 03333580998 Non-life insurance Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Konsileo (Trading) Limited Vijay Jogia 07904196706 www.konsileo.com Activities of insurance agents and brokers Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Oliver James - Window Cleaner Ltd Oliver Metherell 0121 426 2168 www.oliverthewindowcleaner.com Window cleaning services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

ICT Express Ltd James Fox 01675 463000 ictexpressltd.com Freight transport by road Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce iMeta Training Vidal Tucker 0121 238 8565 imetatraining.co.uk Educational support services Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Innovation Studios Sami Ribardiere +33681185441 innovationstudios.uk Information technology consultancy activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Learn to Work Limited Andy Marshall 01214462781 Educational support services Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Peak Life Financial Planning Ltd Michael Shepherd 0121 314 6444 www.peaklifefp.co.uk Financial intermediation not elsewhere classified Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Mazars LLP Vesko Petkova 0121 232 9500 www.mazars.co.uk Accounting and auditing activities Transatlantic Chamber

R&Co Communications Sarah Ross 01926888308 rcomms.co.uk Public relations and communications activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Mindability Hypnotherapy Asha Berzon 07902 580703 www.mindability-hypnotherapy.co.uk Other human health activities Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Reliable contractors LTD Richard Palin 07399 632 842 www.reliablecontractors.co.uk Construction of bridges and tunnels Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

88 CHAMBERLINK December 2023/January 2024

The CLA Darran Ward 02072350511 www.cla.org.uk Support activities for crop production Solihull Chamber of Commerce The De Ferrers Trust Jamie Hawkins 01283 372600 www.deferrerstrust.com Primary education Burton and District Chamber of Commerce Think Software Limited Rebecca Hatch 0330 350 0715 www.thinkinventorysolutions.com Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce Thursfields Solicitors Birmingham Zahid Reza 0121 824 0633 www.thursfields.co.uk Solicitors Asian Business Chamber of Commerce Tudor Grange Academies Trust Lee Fletcher 0121 705 5100 www.solihull.tgacademy.org.uk General secondary education Solihull Chamber of Commerce UK Export Finance Anne Lockett 020 7271 8010 www.ukexportfinance.gov.uk Financial intermediation not elsewhere classified Birmingham Chamber of Commerce VR Entrainment LTD Steph Hogg 0121 400 9888 www.sandboxvr.com Other service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

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MEMBER SECTION

...any other business A roundup of news from Chamber members

On the bus: Roy and Don Roy and Don Richardson have received the honour of having a new zero carbon emission electric bus named after them by National Express West Midlands, the largest bus operator in the region.

The decision was made in recognition of Roy and Don's numerous business achievements and significant contribution to the regional economy over many years, as well as the Richardson business's ongoing commitment to its West Midlands roots at a time when it continues to expand its investment activity around the world.

Bus E143, which now proudly carries the names of Roy and Don Richardson, is one of the 130 Enviro400 electric buses, built in the UK by Alexander Dennis, and

part of a wider £140m project to create the UK's first all-electric bus city in Coventry by 2025.

‘Improving air quality in urban areas and moving towards greener forms of transport are important initiatives’ The buses produce zero carbon emissions at the tailpipe and are powered by renewable ‘green’ energy thanks to solar panels, a second-life battery and charge-point infrastructure all installed at National Express Coventry’s bus depot by electrification specialist Zenobe.

A Richardson spokesperson said: “The Richardson family are delighted to have one of these fantastic new electric vehicles named after them.

“While the Richardson business now invests all over the world, we remain extremely proud of our West Midlands roots.

“Improving air quality in urban areas and moving towards greener forms of transport are important initiatives for the future, and moves that our business certainly support, and it is good to see the steps that National Express are taking to make this happen.

“The family very much hope that people enjoy riding on the Roy and Don Richardson bus for many years to come.”

All aboard (left to right): Paul Faulkner (chief of staff, Richardsons) Jenny Luckman (communications manager, National Express) Roy Richardson and Tania Richardson

Star-studded band plays blues venue The Dirt Road Band, whose members have all featured with leading rock bands, played a free session at Henry’s Blueshouse on Broad Street.

The Dirt Road Band line up was Steve Walwyn, guitar and vocals, who spent 30 years with Dr. Feelgood, Horace Panter’s bass playing graced the bands of The Specials and General Public while drummer Ted Duggan featured with Badfinger, The Selector, The Beat and Desmond Dekker. The trio have known each other for over 40 years, but they had never played together. They decided to form a band to play at Horace’s world favourite venue, the backroom of a tiny pub in Coventry. The gig never happened but the idea of a band continued.

The Dirt Road repertoire is a mix of self-penned songs and those of the singers and bands that they all love.

Steve Walwyn said: “The Dirt Road Band had a memorable trip to Henry’s Blueshouse earlier this year and we were thrilled to be back there.”

Digital firm launches free Secret Santa tool Birmingham-based creative and digital agency Clevercherry is kicking off the festive season with their free secret Santa generator, which has been built by their creative and digital team.

The agency, known for its prestigious clientele including West Midlands Police, Yale and Subaru, has officially launched its brand-new secret Santa generator. By integrating UI and UX web design and development, the platform provides outstanding functionality, allowing users to organise a secret Santa, for free, in three easy steps.

Adam Goode, lead front-end designer and developer, said: “We are buzzing to kickstart the festive season with the launch of our secret Santa generator. It's a fun little tool to make sorting out gift buying that little bit easier - we hope everyone enjoys using it as much as we did making it!”

To start your secret Santa, simply head to: www.santassack.com.

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