Chamberlink October 23

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The official publication of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce

CHAMBER October 2023

LINK

Free to Members £5.00 where sold

Hippodrome’s arts pioneer centre stage at awards Creative head is Young Professional of the Year See page 6 Picture: Dale Martin

• ABCC and Solihull awards shortlists revealed • Villa’s England star helps girls follow dream • Sri Lanka targeted for bigger trade links

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Contents Chamberlink October 2023 54 Solihull: Awards shortlist announced 56 Future Faces: The importance of Black History Month

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Events & Training 48 The latest comprehensive list of Chamber events and training courses

Business News 4

Editor’s View Mind the HS2 gap

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Business News Private sector group to spearhead growth

Features

12 President’s Focus Naeem Arif, president of Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce 16 The Griffin Report Helen Brocklebank, RSM managing partner

61 Enterprise & Innovation: Navigating the future of work 64 The business case for innovation 66 Health in the Workplace: Living well means working well

Sector Focus 68 Business Travel: Bus services secured until 2024

26 Where do you fancy?

The Bull’s Head

71 Finance: Hospitality sector hit by interest rates

Chamber Patrons 42 Airport’s solar power plan takes off

56 75 Manufacturing: Recovery goes against the trend 76 Property: New energy regulations for landlords

72 Legal: Don’t take crypto to the grave 44 Take steps to protect inheritance

78 Skills: Royal honour for recruitment specialist

Chamber Group

82 Technology: Digital donation helps improve lives

1813 Club and Premier Members

46 International Trade: Birmingham event destination of the year

85 The Arts: World premiere comes to Birmingham

48 ABCC: Charity of the year is selected

86 Sport: Green accreditation for cricket ground

50 Cannock Chase: Warning issued after rise in rogue traders

Member Section

51 Burton & District: Ginho announces new partnership

87 Chamber Insight Greg Pons, Evaccess

52 Lichfield & Tamworth: Call for views on town strategy 53 Royal Sutton Coldfield: Chamber welcomes new president

CHAMBER LINK

88 New Members Chamber welcomes new members

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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 07508 317356 f.jayawardene@birmingham-chamber.com Reporter: Darby Newman +447951245985 d.newman@birmingham-chamber.com

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

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OPINION

Editor’s View

BY JOHN LAMB

HS2 indecision widens gap between north and south hatever the outcome of government deliberations over HS2, it is deeply disappointing for this magnificent project to be continually under review and debate.

And that is not only for the travellers and businesses that will greatly benefit from a highspeed train link between the North, the Midlands and the South-East with onward journeys to the European continent.

Spare a thought for those people employed on the project. More than 27,000 people are reported to be working on it and around 8,000 of those are in the West Midlands.

New careers have been shaped by HS2 and many youngsters have been attracted into

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‘Experts say that rising costs on most big projects like HS2 are caused when plans are altered or curtailed’ engineering apprenticeships and training programmes because of its appeal.

And the supreme irony is that it is the very delays caused by political leaders continually changing their minds that have largely been responsible for soaring costs. Experts say that rising costs on most big projects like HS2 are caused when plans are altered or curtailed.

So it is to the credit of those people who have dedicated themselves to creating an outstanding piece of engineering and have retained their enthusiasm and determination to see HS2

FRONT COVER: Zaylie-Dawn Wilson, the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year See page 6 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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through even with the threat of abandonment or curtailment constantly hanging over them.

They could be forgiven for thinking that the needs of London and the south-east are regarded as being more important in Whitehall.

Cost-cutting has already led to the line – for the time being at least - finishing at Old Oak Common, some miles to the west, instead of Euston.

The great metropolis of London will always stand in the way and spoil the dream that one day we could jump on a train at Curzon Street in central Birmingham or Solihull and go direct to Paris without having to change.

HS2 was originally estimated to cost £55.76bn but has now escalated to more than £100bn.

Why did the planners, presumably in Whitehall, get it so wrong?

No-one could have predicted Covid but surely inflationary influences should have been built into costings as well introducing a caveat that once plans have been made - like those for the Birmingham-Leeds link and others in the north – they would be preserved.

We are hearing many reasons of cost to scrap HS2 but few such voices were heard when the cost of the Elizabeth Line (formerly Crossrail) in London ran amok. It opened three and a half years late and more than £4bn over budget for a total cost of £18.8bn.

What a great shame that a project that was supposed to level up the south and the north will probably now only prolong the divide.

• For the HS2 good news, see page 38

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

Powerful WM private sector group to spearhead growth A powerful group representing private sector businesses has been established to champion growth across the West Midlands.

Business Commission West Midlands (BCWM) comprises leaders in enterprise, supported by expert advisors, who will forensically examine the opportunities for regional business and identify the action needed to seize them.

Led by an independent chair and panel of private-sector Commissioners drawn from a range of industries, the BCWM will undertake a mass engagement and research programme aimed at giving a meaningful voice to the regional business community.

The Commission – which has been convened by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Black Country Chamber of Commerce – will set out to: • Identify trends in business’ priorities and appetite for growth • Outline key areas of change identified by local firms as required to enable further business growth • Outline key areas perceived as strengths of the regional business environment • Map existing initiatives, interventions and actors aimed at enabling business growth • Recommend policy changes, initiatives, areas for further research or interventions required locally, regionally or nationally to better enable growth

Its reports will be based on evidence gathering sessions and research with hundreds of businesses and representative organisations across the region.

The Commission is chaired by Mark Taylor, Midlands managing partner at accountancy and business advisory firm RSM. Commissioners include: • Sandra Wallace, joint managing director, DLA Piper and Birmingham chair of TheCityUK • Declan Allen, managing director, HORIBA MIRA • Carmen Watson, chair, Pertemps • Jason Wouhra OBE, CEO, Lioncroft Wholesale Ltd • Jeanette McFarland, chief operating officer, Assa Abloy Opening Solutions • Melissa Snover, founder, Rem3dy Health • Dan Barlow, CEO, Kagool • Eleanor Deeley, joint managing director, Deeley Group • Deb Leary OBE, founder, Forensic Pathways • Vicki Wilkes, director, Darvick Ltd Mark Taylor said: “I passionately believe this Business Commission can play a key role in translating the voice of business into a clear and compelling summary of the proactive steps that need to be taken to support future growth and prosperity in the region.

“The West Midlands is a fantastic place to do business and it is essential that we protect and build on our assets in a fast-changing world.”

Henrietta Brealey, chief executive of Greater Birmingham Chambers

Key commission figures: Henrietta Brealey and Mark Taylor

of Commerce and Commission Convenor, said: “The level and pace of change that the business community has seen in recent years has been extraordinary. In this context we need a fundamental reset of our understanding of what businesses need to fulfil their growth potential.

“With more change ahead in the form of significant elections, there is an opportunity, and a need, to influence by presenting a strong, clear voice from the region’s businesses.

“I am delighted to be working with talented and influential

commissioners, advisors and partners to bring their collective knowledge and expertise to this important task.

“I would encourage businesses reading this to get involved and share their perspective on this critical agenda.”

Commission partners include University College Birmingham, Aston University, Douglas Wright T/A McDonalds and Birmingham City University.

The Commission will be supported by academic advisors from leading institutions across the region.

Former chancellor to speak at annual lecture Nadhim Zahawi, chancellor in Boris Johnson’s government, will be the speaker at the seventh Sir Adrian Cadbury lecture on 19 October.

The MP for Stratford upon Avon, who also served in various ministerial positions under prime ministers Theresa May, Liz Truss and Rishi Sunak, will speak about the vital importance of ethical

and moral leadership - the pitfalls and the challenges. The lecture, organised by the Lunar Society, will take place at Conference Aston from 5pm to 8pm. Mr Zahawi was born in Baghdad to Kurdish parents in 1967. Under threat of persecution from Saddam Hussein’s regime, his family immigrated to the UK when he was nine. In

2000 he founded YouGov, a leading market research company and floated the company on the London Stock Exchange in 2005. In January 2010 he stood down from YouGov to run for election as MP for Stratford-on-Avon. In 2011 he co-authored Masters of Nothing with fellow MP Matt Hancock.

CHECK WHO HAS JOINED YOU AT THE CHAMBER – SEE PAGES 88 AND 89 October 2023 CHAMBERLINK 5

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BUSINESS NEWS

Top prize: Winner Zaylie-Dawn Wilson (second left) with Kaylee Golding, Aston University’s Gurdeep Chima and Future Faces president Kasim Choudhry

Champion of creativity is named Future Face of the Year young professional who has transformed the education, community, talent development and access programmes at one of the region’s leading arts venues has been named the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year.

Zaylie-Dawn Wilson, head of creative partnerships at Birmingham’s Hippodrome, took home the top prize at the Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year Awards, having also triumphed in the Creative Arts and Culture category.

The awards ceremony, hosted by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce’s (GBCC) young professionals arm Future Faces, took place at the Eastside Rooms, in front of around 600 guests.

Headline sponsors were Aston University and Schumacher Packaging, while the event was compered by BBC 1XTRA DJ and presenter Kaylee Golding.

Judges commented that Zaylie-Dawn “brought creativity and energy to all areas of her interview”.

They added: “She showed mastery of her craft, while clearly understanding how her impact can continue to benefit the city and its people.”

In her role at the Hippodrome, the 35-year-old has supported young creatives, artists, schools and communities from across the Birmingham area – particularly those from disadvantaged areas – by developing the region’s biggest theatre education programme.

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GREATER BIRMINGHAM YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

THE WINNERS Greater Birmingham Apprentice of the Year

Sales, Marketing and Communications

Sponsored by Staffordshire University Abbie Veasey, WSP

Sponsored by F1 Arcade Tom Green, mSix&Partners

Change and Sustainability Sponsored by Squire Patton Boggs Philippa Beard, Jacobs

Creative Arts and Culture Sponsored by Bootcamp media Zaylie-Dawn Wilson, Birmingham Hippodrome

GBYPY - Start-ups, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship Sponsored by mfg Solicitors Wesley Foster, Eleven Views

Technology and Innovation Sponsored by Birmingham City University Andrew Ward, Scorchsoft Ltd

Third Sector Engineering and Manufacturing Sponsored by BMet College Alexander Vickers, Jacobs

Finance Sponsored by Deutsche Bank Harriet Saunders, The FSE Group

Presented by Birmingham Mind Gabriel Imevbore, YMCA Heart of England

Training and Education Sponsored by Arup Ilisha Masaun, Econominds

Legal

Greater Birmingham Young Professional of the Year 2023

Presented by Mills & Reeves Alice Kinder, Bexley Beaumont Limited

Sponsored by Aston University Zaylie-Dawn Wilson, Birmingham Hippodrome

People and Wellbeing

Future Faces Ambassador Award 2023

Sponsored by PI-KEM Mandeep Kaur Sidhu, BBC

Sponsored by Common Purpose Adam Gadsby, PI-KEM

Retail and Hospitality

Future Faces President’s Award 2023

Sponsored by Radisson Blu Georgina Butler, Blackberry Events

CJ Lloyd Webley, The Black Pounds Project

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GREATER BIRMINGHAM YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

BUSINESS NEWS

President’s choice: CJ Lloyd Webley receives the President’s Award from Kasim Choudhry

She worked with young people from the city-region to develop a young advocates programme, which has become a central voice in the theatre’s development. In addition to her duties at the Hippodrome, Zaylie-Dawn supported the Birmingham 2022 cultural, schools and legacy teams ahead of last summer’s Commonwealth Games, earning praise from Games organising committee chair Sir John Crabtree for her knowledge and commitment.

Zaylie-Dawn says: “I have always believed passionately in the power of the arts, culture and creativity to positively impact lives, strengthen and develop talent and transform communities. I have spent my career working closely with young people and communities, developing projects which have empowered individuals to make a change in their lives.”

Zaylie-Dawn will receive a fully-funded MBA from award sponsors Aston University.

Future Faces president Kasim Choudhry presented his President’s Award to CJ Lloyd Webley, the entrepreneur and playwright who founded the Black Pounds Project.

See next page for more pictures from the awards...

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BUSINESS NEWS

GREATER BIRMINGHAM YOUNG PROFESSIONAL OF THE YEAR AWARDS

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4 1. Triumphant: All the evening’s award winners assemble 2. Dream team: The Chamber events team who delivered the successful awards night 3. Showstoppers: Eloquent Dance deliver a stirring performance 4. Let us entertain you: A surprise performance from Undercover Artists whips up a frenzy 5. All rise: It’s party time as awards attendees enjoy the entertainment

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Pictures: Edwin Ladd

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Lioness leads inspiring coaching clinic for girls

By Jon Griffin ngland and Aston Villa striker Rachel Daly kicked off the new season in style with a special coaching clinic for dozens of starstruck young girls - as the club's women’s team prepared to welcome record crowds to Villa Park.

Rachel, the PFA Women's Players Player of the Year, made it a football night to remember for a total of 80 seven- to nine-year-olds by cohosting coaching sessions for youngsters eager to pursue their dreams and follow in her footsteps in the rapidly growing women's game.

The clinic was held at Villa's new inner-city academy facility at Brookvale just two weeks before a record crowd of 10,500 was set to gather at Villa Park to witness a mouth-watering opening day WSL clash with Manchester United.

The clinic, staged in partnership with the LEGO Group UK, was held amid growing expectations for the continuing growth of the women's game in the UK on the back of the

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‘I think Villa have done a great job of supporting the game - it's now about trying to create a sustainable model’ England Lionesses' dramatic run to the final of the summer World Cup, where they narrowly lost 1-0 to Spain.

Sinead Quinn, head of commercial for the Aston Villa Women's Team, said: “The coaching clinic was very well received Rachel got stuck in and the demand certainly seems to be there to look at what we could do on top of this.

“We have a season-long partnership with LEGO and part of it is getting young girls access to the game and seeing someone like Lioness Rachel Daly. Rachel was part of both the Euro 2022 winning team and the 2023 World Cup team, she has recently awarded both the WSL Golden Boot and the PFA Players’ Player of the year, plus has just been nominated for the illustrious Ballon D’or.”

Sinead said the Villa Women's Team - which has a long and proud 50-year history dating back to its founding in Solihull in 1973 before becoming affiliated to Villa in 1989 10 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Exciting club: Sinead Quinn

Smile please: Anna Patten obliges with a selfie

- would be appearing in front of a record crowd of over 10,500 for the WSL season curtain-raiser against Manchester United.

"For us as a club it is so, so exciting – the women’s game has become a core pillar of what we are about at Aston Villa. With particular focus on the youth development, making sure we are increasing the access points and all the pathways.

Season tickets are up by 120 per cent and we are delighted to have already exceeded our previous record attendance (8000).

She predicted the Women’s Game in the UK would benefit from

Diverse interest: Rachel Daly chats with a young hopeful

a “huge ripple effect” following the England team's run to the World Cup Final. “The women's game is in a very different place to the men's game. People are coming into the game, being fans of football and fans of the athlete, and then starting to get an affinity to their local club.

“They really want to capture that and get them in to Aston Villa and showcase the environment. We are very proud of everything on the field and what our manager Carla Ward is doing. Our latest signings and increased attendance are testament to our growing profile.”

Sinead said she looked forward to a future where the Villa Women's Team played more games at Villa Park - their other home is the Bescot Stadium at Walsall.

“I think Villa have done a great job of supporting the game - it's now about trying to create a sustainable model. A big focus for us is furthering brand engagement and continuing to raise the profile.”

She praised the club's support for the women's game. “The club has been incredibly supportive, and that very much comes from the top. They have provided the right funding and infrastructure that helped us to get to fifth place in the league last season and it will help us push on this season.”

Sinead described the growth of interest in the women's game in the aftermath of the Euros and the World Cup as a "fast-moving train.”

“As a club we want to be on it and we want to be going in the right direction. It is a very exciting time.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

President’s Focus Naeem Arif, the newly elected president of Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce, is a director of United Carpets. As an experienced entrepreneur, he looks at the prospects for businesses in the region and urges members to use Chamber services.

am extremely proud to have been elected as president of the Sutton Coldfield Chamber. As a resident for most of my life, I know the best parts and where we need to improve.

Being an entrepreneur, it is important to be positive and ensure you look for opportunities. As we start coming out of this current dip, it is important to take calculated risks to ensure that whilst you don’t overstretch yourself, you are still looking to grow.

As we are approaching the end of 2023, the Golden Quarter of the year, businesses need to be upbeat and take positive steps to maximise their sales before Christmas. The next 100 days often represent a key time and we should all be looking to see where we can increase our sales.

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‘When we buy local, we aren't just investing in products and services; we are investing in our neighbours, friends and families’ For me, the key keys to success in these difficult times are creativity, positivity, and collaboration.

I will always promote all the local businesses in our region, giving them support wherever we can and we will push this narrative as much as possible. When we buy local, we aren't just investing in products and services; we are investing in our neighbours, friends and families.

We are investing in the future of everyone in Sutton Coldfield Over the next two years we will be looking to support a number of initiatives; • Trade in/out of the region, promoting local tourism, innovation and spotlighting our many retail and hospitality businesses • Sign post the various types of business support available from the GBCC, LETP, Growth Hub, WMCA and BCC. 12 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Nareem Arif

• Supporting the town centre regeneration, but not forgetting our boroughs, showcasing the excellent opportunities that Boldmere and Mere Green also offer.

Our two showcases will be our annual awards dinner, which I am pleased to confirm will be returning

to the Belfry, and the Royal Business Fair, which will be held in the summer. Both events represent opportunities to showcase your own business and meet others from the region. In addition to local events, don’t forget to connect with all the events that happen across Greater Birmingham. Chamber members

often just see their own events and forget that their membership gives them access to whole lot more.

At all times, please reach our to the Chamber teams and executive committee members, who are all business owners in their right for any support or advice We are all here to support you.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Making an impact through education The start of the academic year 2023/24 saw 30-plus degree temperatures and in the blistering heat people started to think about “what next” in terms of education and developing their skills.

Many employers also continue to battle to recruit to jobs as people do not have the necessary skills and knowledge to apply for positions.

Halesowen College offers a broad based impactful curriculum for school leavers; those wishing to enter the job markets; people wanting to retrain and those looking to advance their career.

Whatever the education need, Halesowen College is here to advise and provide high quality education and training.

There are also so many ways in which you can now learn. As well as a more traditional classroom based approach and apprenticeships, several qualifications are available on a distance learning model.

We have a variety of distance learning courses which build skills needed for employment, starting with CV writing which covers the main concepts of how to write a CV including the purpose and expected content, as well as identifying a suitable format for a CV, completing a CV and reviewing this for accuracy, right through to level three courses in customer service, dementia care and many other topics.

Whatever skills are needed and however flexible learning needs to be, Halesowen College may have a course for you and your employees.

Visit our website www.halesowen.ac.uk for more information.

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SPONSORED BY: HALESOWEN COLLEGE

Recovery plan in place at ‘bankrupt’ city council As a recovery plan to tackle Birmingham City Council’s financial problems was approved, business leaders said it was critical councillors and commissioners understood the context in which the city’s companies were operating.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said many businesses had been “significantly impacted” by successive challenges in recent years.

Councillors voted in favour of four recommendations, which included accepting the Section 114 notice which essentially acknowledges the authority’s spending commitments exceed its revenue. They also agreed spending control measures until a new budget has been passed, endorsing activity to address its financial

‘We will keep local businesses informed as more details and proposals emerge’ pressures and to receive a further report and emergency budget next month.

The decision came less than a week after the government announced it would send in commissioners to help run the local authority. The city council declared itself essentially bankrupt in part over a £760m equal pay bill.

Ms Brealey said: “Many in the business community are urgently looking to understand what measures will be implemented as a result of the Section 114 notice and how it will impact them.

Henrietta Brealey, Chamber CEO

“The meeting confirmed the areas under review. We will keep local businesses informed as more details and proposals emerge. It is critical that the Council and commissioners understand the context in which businesses in this city are operating. The majority, 99.5 per cent are SMEs, 80 per cent are micro businesses employing fewer than 10 people. Many have been significantly impacted by the successive challenges of recent years – particularly in our hospitality sector.

“The city and country needs its businesses growing and employing more people and, as a result, contributing more to the public purse in taxation. We will continue to advocate for the city's businesses during this time. While it is clear that there are difficult decisions ahead for the local authority, Birmingham remains a great place to live, visit and do business.”

Birmingham still open for business The chair of Westside Business Improvement District (BID) has reassured businesses, investors and the general public that Birmingham and Westside remain open for business, despite the city council’s financial challenges.

Gerald Manton, chairman of Westside BID, was speaking in the wake of the Section 114 notice announced by Birmingham City Council.

Mr Manton said: “I want to make it clear that recent developments concerning Birmingham City Council's financial status do not reflect the economic vitality or operational status of businesses within Westside or the broader Birmingham area.

“In short, Birmingham is very much open for business. It is crucial to understand that the challenges facing the city council are specific to the council itself and arise from an historic equal pay claim, rather than any form of mismanagement.

"This is an issue with the council only, and it is important to separate that from the thriving business community we have in Birmingham and here on Westside.”

Mr Manton also wanted to assure

Open for business: Gerald Manton

any businesses within Westside that may have concerns following the city council's announcement that Westside BID was there to help.

He said: “If any of our businesses are affected by the recent developments, rest assured that we are committed to providing the necessary support and resources to navigate these times."

Mr Manton also commended the city’s councillors and council officers for acknowledging the financial challenges they face.

He added: “It's commendable to see the council tacking these issues head-on. We’re still in choppy waters, but we are ready to collaborate and do whatever it takes to help the council overcome its current challenges.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Partnership to bring style to Chamber offices Chamber HQ masterminds: Rhino Interiors Group COO Nadia Hanoush, GBCC CEO Henrietta Brealey, and Rhino Interiors Group project manager Gemma Kenyon.

Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) has partnered with Midlands-based commercial fit-out organisation, Rhino Interiors Group, to design and deliver its new premises at 54 Hagley Road.

The new location will offer the GBCC a contemporary and exciting space, with a focus on wellbeing.

There will be a strong focus on

collaboration, with a flexible 'town hall' style area capable of hosting small in-house events.

Henrietta Brealey, GBCC CEO, said: "We are delighted to be partnering with Rhino Interiors Group on our new premises. We have been working closely with Chamber members throughout the process, and we are confident that

the new space will be a valuable asset to the business community.”

Ryan King, project director at Rhino Interiors Group, added: “We are excited to be working with the GBCC on this project.

“Rhino has a long history of working with businesses in Birmingham and the team is looking forward to creating this

contemporary space that will be both functional and inspiring. This will be an exciting new beginning for the Chambers of Commerce."

The new premises will be a significant investment for the GBCC and will help to support the growth of the local business community.

The project is due to be completed in November 2023.

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BUSINESS NEWS

The Griffin Report Helen Brocklebank was at the centre of negotiations to sell the Roald Dahl Story Company to US streaming giants Netflix. Now the selfconfessed bookworm and “deal junkie”, who was recently named Midlands Dealmaker of the Year, is to head up the RSM Birmingham office. JON GRIFFIN talked to Helen about her fascinating career and plans for the future.

ew Birmingham-based RSM managing partner Helen Brocklebank has been involved in more than 50 deals in the course of a 16-year career at the sharp end of business transactions – but one stands out above the rest...

Self-confessed bookworm, Helen found herself combining business with pleasure when she acted as a leading adviser on the sale of the Roald Dahl Story Company to US streaming giants Netflix back in 2021, one of the most eye-catching global business deals of recent times rumoured to be in excess of $500m.

Helen recalls: “That was really exciting. I am a child of the 80s and literally grew up on the whole canon of Roald Dahl. It was brilliant to support the family to get a deal over the line.

“We had a 40-hour long continuous Zoom call, myself and the team around completion, which was pretty exhausting. The nature of the beast, as with many cross border deals, was that as Netflix are on the West Coast of the US timelines were pretty relentless.”

If the Roald Dahl deal proved to be one of the highlights of her career to date, it also helped vindicate her move from initial audit and due diligence roles in Manchester with PwC for a woman - who freely admits she is a “deal junkie” - to a more fulfilling position with Baker Tilly.

That switch to a lead advisory role back in 2007 proved to be a

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‘I was itching to be at the sharp end of deals, leading, making them happen and delivering the value to the client’ critical milestone in a career path which would eventually culminate in her recent appointment to one of Birmingham’s most high-profile posts in the business advisory sector – as new managing partner 16 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Helen Brocklebank

with RSM, the UK’s seventh largest accountancy firm.

The Oxford University graduate – who had once indulged her love of reading by studying English Literature in the city of the dreaming spires back in the early 2000s – has since brought a forensic eye for detail and reading the small print to the highly competitive world of deal-making, and is now contemplating life in the hot seat at RSM in Colmore Row. But in PwC’s Manchester office in 2007, life was rather different for the Stoke-born accountant’s

daughter whose early ambition was “to not be an accountant”.

“I guess there was a reaction to what theoretically I thought sounded boring.

“I got a role with PWC in audit and did that for three years. It was a fun place to be but I knew it wasn’t my long-term future. I moved into their due diligence business and did a short spell there but realised that due diligence wasn’t necessarily my skillset.

“I was itching to be at the sharp end of deals, leading, making them happen and delivering the value to

the client. A role came up at what was Baker Tilly at the time based a little closer to home out of the Stoke office covering the NorthWest – it was corporate finance associate, lead advisory.”

Helen’s arrival at Baker Tilly – which later became part of the RSM empire – would coincide with the financial crash and banking bailouts of 2007-08 and the subsequent birth of her first child.

“I had to be out of the workforce for 18 months, sometimes you think it is all plain sailing but actually life is messy and hard.

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BUSINESS NEWS “The complexity of that situation, the fact that I had to be away from work for quite a long time, if I had to pin down one factor why I am still with RSM today, it is how well the business treated me then, and how well I was looked after.

“It was above and beyond what people needed to do at a difficult time, given the financial crash and quite flexible given the scenario.

“I came back to work after those 18 months and effectively built my experience in deals, working across the North-West, North Wales, Liverpool, Chester and more widely, with some deals in this neck of the woods in Birmingham.”

Helen had found her ideal vocation in the deal-making world – and over more than 16 years amassed a wealth of experience which would ultimately lead to her latest role at the head of the RSM office in Birmingham.

“The nature of our clients, when you turn a lifetime of hard work into real generational wealth and value for someone’s family, that certainty is a real buzz and it is an absolute joy to be part of.”

After her initial baptism of fire in the financial sector following the 2007-08 crash, around 12 years later Helen found her sector caught up in the Covid emergency and subsequent lockdowns.

“We had three months where every deal stopped, every deal adviser panicked, the wheels were going to come off. Then three months later we were all running around rushed off our feet with a high level of deal activity. But we all pivoted and people did appoint

‘A phrase you will hear a lot from us is ‘grow your own’ and that is everything from school-leavers or graduates to placement students’ advisers, people got used to building trust online. By the second lockdown we were ludicrously busy, with multiple deals running very,

very hard, very, very fast.”

Now after moving to Birmingham at the end of 2020 and with Covid largely consigned to history, Helen is looking forward to her new role as RSM office managing partner and an increased profile within the city’s business community.

“My job is pretty intense. At the end of the day, we are supporting people who are doing the most important thing for them at that moment. A quick deal, from starting to prepare to taking something to market and completion can be six months.

Some deals can take significantly longer, 12 months.”

Helen’s switch to her new role will see Mark Taylor, step down as office managing partner after seven and a half years of driving incredible growth for the firm across the city.

"We very much see this as the office ambassadorial role, promoting the business in the marketplace, networking etc."

Helen's talents were recognised at last month's Insider's Midlands Dealmakers Awards 2023 at the Hilton Metropole Hotel when she won the Dealmaker of the Year Award.

The citation read: "After 17 years with RSM Helen has run up an impressive run of transactions.

Under her the accountancy firm

was last year one of the most active dealmaking teams in the Midlands. Her clients told Insider she is a joy to work with - practical, empathetic, a great negotiator and a devil on detail."

The RSM team led by Helen was also named in the SME Deal of the Year for their involvement in the sale of civil engineering business Thomas Bow to East Midlands construction materials group Breedon and in the International Deal of the Year for their role in the sale of Casella Holdings Ltd to TSI. Reflecting on her new role, Helen added: “I need to be out in the market talking to people about what we do. The OMP role is very much focused on grow and inspire, so growing the business, inspiring our people internally to grow within the office. A phrase you will hear a lot from us is ‘grow your own’ and that is everything from school-leavers or graduates to placement students.

The way we really attract talent is bringing people in at the ground and helping them to build a career.”

Just as Helen herself was encouraged to forge a career at the cutting edge of deal-making which eventually led to her helping negotiate a historic swoop by hitech US streaming giant Netflix for the much-loved timeless fantasies of Roald Dahl...

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BUSINESS NEWS

Meet the Team FINANCE hey have the financial dealings of Birmingham’s premier business organisation at their fingertips – ensuring that the £7m turnover operation runs smoothly for suppliers and staff alike.

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce finance team may all be deskbound on a daily basis – but the effects of their labours are felt far and wide by the multiple organisations and individuals who come within the Chamber House financial orbit.

Finance manager Claire Sartin, who has been at the Chamber for 21 years after initially working at a bakery in Bournville, said: “I am one of the longest-serving members of staff and have seen how the role has changed. The Chamber itself has evolved and changed.

“The finance department is responsible for processing the supplier invoices and other expenses, around 2,000 a year. Membership has always been the core service but we are more commercial now – documentation for example has seen an upturn in recent times. I prepare the monthly accounts, making sure we remain

T

18 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Accounting aces: Claire Sartin (front), with colleague (back row, from left) Nehal Vora, Gabrielle Beckett and Abi Shellis

The finance team at the Chamber represents the heartbeat of the business. As a no-for-profit membership-based business, efficient and prompt financial processes are vital both externally and internally.

NEXT MONTH: In the November issue of Chamberlink we shall be meeting the Chamber’s HR team.

compliant with direct debits and VAT regulations, and authorise all the payment runs that go out.”

Claire works closely with finance assistant Gabbie Beckett, who sends invoices out for authentication and makes the payments, while checking bank details and making sure records are up to date. “Gabbie is our purchase ledger guru. If a bill comes into the Chamber, Gabbie pays it,” said Claire.

“The number of invoices can change with the business needs. Invoices come in all the time and the work can be quite complex. There are a lot of different parts to the process,” says Gabbie, who has been with the Chamber for seven and a half years.

Meanwhile, fellow finance assistant Nehal Vora, who has worked for the Chamber over two separate spells for a total of 17 years, combines chasing debts with cashiering duties. “70 per cent of the job is credit control, chasing debts, 30 per cent is posting cash receipts, raising sales invoices and credit notes. It can be quite a task but there is a real sense of achievement,” said Nehal.

Making up Claire’s four-strong team is Abi Shellis, management accountant who works on

the Chambers’ monthly direct debit collections and assists in preparing accounts. “The Chamber has supported me in getting my Association of Accounting Technicians qualifications and I am now starting my studies towards becoming a chartered accountant.”

Overseeing the four-strong team and other departments in Chamber House such as HR and IT is chief financial officer Helen Bates, who played key roles in facilitating the sale of the building to Mercia Real Estate for £4.75m in 2020 and also administering the Chamber’s now closed final salary pension scheme for its 138 members.

Helen, who moved to Chamber House from her finance director’s role at the Hippodrome six years ago, said: “It is similar (to the Hippodrome) in that there are lots of different income streams and lots of different parts of the business. I find the job fascinating and challenging.”

Meanwhile, the finance team has been busy getting to grips with a new cloud-based, paperless software system, which, as Claire says: “It has taken 12 months from procurement to implementation and we helped to design that for the business’s needs. It has improved our workflow and the processing of invoices.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

Award-winning Rhenus prioritises sustainability with “BREEAM Outstanding” warehouses henus Warehousing Solutions UK, which recently won an award for its sustainability measures, is helping retailers become more environmentally-friendly, by operating from a new, sustainable warehousing campus in Nuneaton, Warwickshire.

Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK is a logistics supplier that provides warehousing, fulfilment and returns processing to multi-channel retailers and brands. It utilises the latest emerging technologies to provide efficient storage, B2B and B2C order fulfilment, value-added services, and comprehensive returns management.

The third-party logistics provider is committed to having a positive impact on the environment, and recently received the 2023 UKWA (United Kingdom Warehousing Association) Award for Excellence in Sustainability. The win showcases how Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK is focused on energy efficiency, carbon reduction and implementing environmental initiatives.

The brand-new sustainable facility, known as the ‘Rhenus Campus’, is ideally situated in the heart of the Golden Triangle, a prime location nearby the M1, M69, M6 and M42. The campus is home to two warehouses, measuring one million square feet in total across 64 acres.

The ‘Rhenus Campus’ is certified “BREEAM Outstanding” and has been designed with reference to the UK Green Building Council

R

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The Rhenus Campus – Unit 1 (UKGBC) Framework Definition for Net Zero Carbon Buildings.

The campus promotes sustainability by generating renewable energy on-site via solar panels and air source heat pumps, installing electric car charging points, and caring for local wildlife by introducing hedgehog homes, bat and bird boxes and habitat boards all made from recycled timber.

The site will also be home to a pond, wildflower grassland and meadow, and between 700 and 900 native trees which are being planted to encourage biodiversity and enhance existing woodland.

Kerry Delaney, regional director, Europe NorthWest at Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK, said:

“At Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK, being sustainable is a core part of our ethos and we have made it a priority at our campus. We pride ourselves on reaching high sustainability standards and are on-hand to help retailers reach their own environmental targets.”

Rhenus Warehousing Solutions UK specialises in contract logistics for retail, wholesale and ecommerce warehousing and distribution. It offers its customers a personalised service and prides itself on building strong relationships.

For more information on Rhenus please email warehousing.enquiries@uk.rhenus.com or visit www.rhenus.group/uk

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BUSINESS NEWS

Largest EV charging hub opens The UK’s largest public electric vehicle (EV) charging hub has been launched at the NEC campus in the West Midlands.

This Gigahub was officially opened by The Chancellor of the Exchequer, The Rt Hon Jeremy Hunt MP. The project was completed by the NEC Group in collaboration with bp pulse and The EV Network (EVN). The new electric vehicle charging hub is big enough to charge 180 cars simultaneously.

The Chancellor also convened a roundtable with green industries SMEs based in and around the West-Midlands.

It was attended by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) CEO Henrietta Brealey and other Chamber members including Green Leaves Logistics, Volt-Age EV Charging, Silence UK, Green Financial Services and Tyseley Energy Park.

The charging hub marks a significant boost for Britain’s electric car charging network and is the largest electric vehicle charging site in the UK. Paul Thandi, chairman of NEC Group, said: “Working in collaboration with EVN and bp pulse, the opening of our EV charging hub provides NEC Campus customers, commuters, and those working for local regional or national businesses, with a reliable and convenient way to recharge and support a lower carbon travel future.

“This strategic collaboration and initiative strengthen our destination

Ribbon-cutting ceremony (left to right): Alexander Walsh, senior managing director at Blackstone; Paul Thandi; Reza Shaybani, CEO, EV Network; Olivia Hall, head of finance, EV Network; Jeremy Hunt; Lord Barker of Battle PC and Akira Kirton, VP, bp pulse UK

Bird’s-eye view: The UK’s largest electric vehicle charging hub at the NEC

Jazz club debt is finally paid off One of the UK’s best known music impresarios has finally repaid a mortgage he took out more than 20 years ago to save his business following a Birmingham jazz club’s collapse.

Jim Simpson, now aged 85, is the original manager of Black Sabbath and still runs the annual Birmingham Jazz & Blues Festival via Big Bear Music, his record and bookings company.

Owed £50,000: Jim Simpson

He said Big Bear Music was owed more than £50,000 when the Ronnie Scott’s franchise club on Birmingham’s Broad Street went under in 2001.

Big Bear Music had been retained by the local Ronnie Scott’s for nearly 10 years from its opening in October 1991 to handle its bookings of bands and musicians, and to take care of its marketing.

The independent record company, founded by Simpson in 1968, is based in offices at Quayside Tower on Broad Street.

Mr Simpson said: “Ronnie Scott’s owed us £52,000 when they went bust in 2001, including payments to our artists who had already played at the club and not been paid.

“So I took out a mortgage of £55,000 on my own house, having previously paid off the mortgage 14 years before. The loan was to enable Big Bear to keep going and to help the jazz festival to survive. How else could I have got the money together other than by remortgaging my house? Happily, we have just made the last of the mortgage repayments this month.”

Big Bear Music had recorded several live albums over the year at Ronnie Scott’s, which was a popular venue for top acts from America and around the UK to perform in.

offer, demonstrate our commitment to reducing the impact our business practices and our Masterplan credentials have on the environment, and ultimately supports a reduction in carbon emissions.”

The Gigahub, located at the city’s NEC Campus, is the largestever private investment in a UK electric vehicle project to date.

It is funded by a record £8m from its investment partner, Zood Infrastructure Limited. The site will provide 30 super-fast, 300kw DC charging bays and a further 150 7KW a/c charging bays – one of the largest amounts of super-fast chargers in one location in the UK.

Are you ready for plastics ban?

The British Independent Retailers Association is urging businesses to ensure they comply with a single-use plastics ban.

Bira, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, is warning that some shopkeepers are either unaware or unprepared for the change to regulations which came into force on 1 October.

The new rules outlined by the government mean that businesses will face stringent regulations regarding singleuse plastics for online and over-the-counter sales and supply. Compliance with these regulations is essential, as breaches can result in fines.

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BUSINESS NEWS

Melanie joins NEC Group as new boss The NEC Group has appointed Melanie Smith as the company’s new chief executive officer, succeeding Paul Thandi, who moves to the position of chairman after nearly 17 years.

Melanie brings more than 25 years’ experience in executive and operational leadership to the UK’s leading live events business, having successfully delivered performance transformations at leading UK consumer and retail businesses.

Working closely with the NEC Group board and the company’s majority shareholder, Blackstone, Melanie will strive to implement the business’ vision to be Europe’s leading live events business across the NEC and ICC Birmingham, Vox Conference Venue and Birmingham’s two live music arenas – Utilita Arena Birmingham and Resorts World Arena.

Most recently, Melanie served as CEO of Ocado Retail, the online

grocer and retail company, where she oversaw major technology, marketing and supplier transitions.

This included the execution of the largest and most successful brand switchover in UK grocery history and the high-profile relaunch of the Ocado brand.

She previously held senior positions at Marks & Spencer, Bupa,

‘Our vision is to become Europe’s most successful and sustainable live events business’ TalkTalk and McKinsey & Co. She is a non-executive director at SSE plc, the FTSE 30 energy company, and the deputy chair of Sadler’s Wells, the UK’s leading dance institution.

Beyond her role as a leading UK consumer and retail executive, Melanie is a passionate advocate

Vision: Melanie Smith

for diversity and empowerment, particularly for women and the Māori community. In 2022, she founded the Mokaraka Trust, an initiative funding Māori Women’s business studies with the aim of creating a leading global cohort of Māori women CEOs by 2040.

Melanie Smith said: “The NEC Group is a truly unique business with a rich history and significant future opportunities.

“It is internationally renowned as the go-to destination for live events in the UK, hosting some of the world’s most iconic exhibitions and shows.

“From our proud base in the Midlands, our vision is to become Europe’s most successful and sustainable live events business – with world class venues and supporting services that ensure unforgettable live experiences for millions of people every year.”

Airline opens next round of GreenSkies funding The sustainable ambitions of notfor-profit businesses, charities, and community groups across the UK are set to be boosted by Loganair, who fly out of Birmingham Airport, as it opens applications for its third round of GreenSkies funding.

From electric vehicle charging infrastructure to solar powered robotic lawn mowers, the UK’s largest regional airline has funded the green energy initiatives up and down the country through more than £57,000 from its groundbreaking GreenSkies Community Fund.

The airline has announced another pot of £30,000 is open for applications with the aim of supporting local, small scale but high impact renewable energy projects across the UK, Isle of Man and Northern Ireland.

GreenSkies was launched with the introduction of a nominal carbon offsetting charge levied on all flights, with the money invested in accredited sustainable schemes.

The Community Fund is just one part of the airline’s ongoing journey to reach net-zero by 2040.

Jonathan Hinkles, Loganair chief 22 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Greenskies Jonathan Hinkles

executive, said: “We continue to make great strides in our journey to net-zero and GreenSkies Community Fund is just one strand in a much wider strategy.

“Now in its third round, it’s fantastic to reflect on the difference the fund has made to date for local organisations on their own sustainability journeys.”

Alongside GreenSkies, Loganair is leading the way in a wide range of cutting-edge initiatives to manage and mitigate the environmental impact of flying.

The Greenskies Community Fund is open now and applications should be submitted by Tuesday, 31 October, via longanair.co.uk

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY: ADAPT IT

New Assistive Technology and Training Centre Adapt-IT is a specialist IT and gaming solution and service provider for people with disabilities.

Adapt-IT is growing, and we have now moved into our new Assistive Technology and Training Centre. This is designed to provide a dedicated location for training awareness for businesses that wish to make their IT accessible, enabling access to work for people with differing disabilities, whether that is physical or neurodiversity.

The state-of-the-art centre has lecture space attached to a full set of demo IT systems that enable for both software and hardware to be demonstrated and used. This can be both for awareness of Diversity & Inclusion teams, people managers, or the users themselves. The facility is open between 09:00 and 15:30 Monday to Friday, but special courses or support can be accommodated at other times with prior notice.

If your business is looking to create a more inclusive environment for your employees and clients: FOLLOW US on all social media for support and guidance.

CONTACT US to learn how to implement and use assistive technology hardware and software.

VISIT US at our new office and drop-in centre: Unit 63, Oakfield Close, Tewkesbury, Gloucestershire, GL20 8SD.

T: 03300 564079 E: support@adapt-it.co.uk W: www.adapt-it.co.uk

24 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Congratulations: A scene from the graduation ceremony at Symphony Hall

Partnership a success as first cohorts graduate our students are well-placed for a flourishing career.

University College Birmingham graduates on Together, we are delivering on a commitment to do University of Warwick-accredited courses celebrated a more for our students, our staff, our industry partners, slice of academic history with the first successful and our region. As new graduates embark on their graduating cohort from the partnership between the careers, our students have now become a part of two universities. delivering on that commitment.

At the ceremony over 300 students graduated at “We are already very proud of the Symphony Hall in Birmingham. achievements of our graduates, the Courses included finance and ‘The partnership we contributions that they are making accounting, aviation and airport to their communities, and the management, international tourism have with University examples they have set for future management, culinary arts College Birmingham University College Birmingham management, enterprise is unique, working management and sports therapy. graduates, and we will continue to Vice-chancellor and principal together to transform celebrate their ongoing successes.”

Professor Michael Harkin Professor Croft said: “The the lives of students’ welcomed attendees along with partnership we have with Professor Stuart Croft, vice University College Birmingham is chancellor and president of University of Warwick. unique, working together to transform the lives of Professor Harkin said: “Congratulations to all students students and helping to deliver many of the skills that will be highly sought after by local employers for our graduating. The partnership between University College region. I am pleased to see the first cohort graduating Birmingham and the University of Warwick has already with degrees accredited by The University of Warwick. offered opportunities and experiences to hundreds of We wish them every success with their future careers.” students, providing life-changing education to ensure

Liquid makes waves in Australia Liquid, the Birmingham-based international integrated communications consultancy, has strengthened its presence in the Australian communications industry by joining the Public Relations and Communications Association (PRCA) APAC NextGen Group committee.

Tom Dellow, account executive based in Liquid’s Brisbane office, has been appointed as one of two Australia committee members, playing a vital role in pushing forward the group’s upcoming plans and ambitions.

Tom brings to the committee his understanding of the UK PR industry, which can be applied to the recent UK-Australia Free Trade Agreement and used to support PR professionals when introducing

Pushing plans: Tom Dellow

products to new markets.

Liquid has a long-standing commitment to the PRCA, both in the UK and APAC. CEO Lis Lewis-Jones has sat on the PRCA UK board since 2013 and was PRCA Council chair in 2011/2012.

She also sat on the interim board

which was responsible for conducting PRCA’s global governance review, looking at regional and international activity.

Chloe Baker, head of public relations in Liquid’s Birmingham office, is chair of the Midlands NextGen Group committee, which relaunched in 2022 to encourage collaboration between local PR professionals.

Liquid’s CEO Elisabeth Lewis Jones said: “It’s fantastic to see our involvement in the PRCA’s NextGen work across the globe, inspiring the next generation of professionals.

“Both Tom and Chloe bring a wealth of knowledge to the NextGen Groups, and I look forward to seeing them share this with their peers through their work with the PRCA.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Where do you fancy?

Set in the charming village of Earlswood, The Bull’s Head – part of Daniel Thwaites – provides a exceptional culinary experience. With tranquil lakes, winding canals and breathtaking views right on the doorstep, after a busy day exploring the area, guests can return to The Bull’s Head to relax and find a cosy place to hunker down. Whether it’s in a snug corner of the charming restaurant or outside in the pergola, diners can indulge in a leisurely brunch, hearty lunch or wholesome evening meal of seasonal, locally-sourced dishes, packed full of flavour. Enjoy the finest Thwaites cask ales, delicious cocktails and many more tempting tipples. Fourlegged friends are also welcome in the bar area.

Breakfast, lunch or dinner…

Food and drink The Bull’s Head is offering guests English pub classics with a Mediterranean-inspired twist.

Designed by head chef Daniel Davies, each menu features seasonal produce and vibrant flavours. Whether it’s a big family celebration or a romantic meal for two, The Bull’s Head provides the ideal backdrop.

Breakfast It’s said that breakfast is the most important meal of the day, which is why The Bull’s Head offers a menu packed with all the classics, as well as a few surprise dishes. From light bites such as porridge served with raspberries, blueberries, toasted seeds and honey, to a classic full English breakfast. For those looking for a sweet start to the day, there are American pancakes accompanied with maple syrup and a mixed berry compote.

Lunch The Bull’s Head offers diners a varied lunch menu packed full of artisanal sandwiches and salads.

Hero dishes include the smoked salmon bagel accompanied with chive crème fraiche, cucumber, rocket and sea-salted fries, as well as the grilled chicken salad served with sauteed new potatoes, rocket, gem lettuce, cherry tomatoes, red onions and salsa verde.

Dinner Catering to a variety of guests, the inn’s main dinner menu offers a mix of traditional classics with a twist in addition to a monthly, seasonal specials menu to suit varying tastebuds. Using fresh, locally sourced ingredients, signature dishes include slow braised ox cheek served with colcannon mash, honey carrots and red wine jus, as well as pan-fried seabass fillet accompanied with crushed potato, kale, capers and brown butter sauce.

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The Bull’s Head Address: 7 Limekiln Ln, Earlswood, Solihull B94 6BU T: 01564 700368 E: relax@bullsheadearlswood.co.uk W: www.bullsheadearlswood.co.uk Owner: Daniel Thwaites General manager: Lucy Burrows Head chef: Daniel Davies

Opening hours Bar (Monday to Sunday) - 10.00am till 10.00pm Brunch (Monday to Sunday) – 9.30am till 11.30am Food (Monday to Saturday) – 12.00pm till 10.00pm (last seating at 9pm) Food (Sunday) – 12.00pm till 9.00pm (last seating at 8pm)

Vegetarian, vegan and glutenfree options are available.

Wines The Bull’s Head offers guests a varied wine list, from soft chardonnays and tantalising sauvignon blancs to bold Chateauneuf du Pape and fruity Sancerre Domaine Michel Girard.

Prices start at £5.40 for a 175ml glass and £21 for a bottle.

Business facilities Business guests are welcome to work from the restaurant, with convenient charging points available throughout, while they can also take advantage of the inn’s dedicated lunch menu.

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BUSINESS NEWS

SPONSORED BY: DEL BOSQUE GROUP LIMITED

The ICC: Helping the recovery from Covid-19

Del Bosque Group has arrived in the JQ After 18 months of exceptional organic growth, Del Bosque Group has recently relocated, settling into our new Jewellery Quarter Office to accommodate our growing team.

Del Bosque Group is a specialist consultancy operating nationally and internationally, offering a full range of construction related advisory and professional services to both public and private sectors, including: government, retail, commercial, healthcare, leisure, education, residential, care and retirement living. Within the group, we have four companies providing a broad spectrum of bespoke specialist services: DB Consult: Specialising in delivering estate development assurance work for government bodies and other clients ensuring best value is achieved.

Services include commercial management, project management, project assurance, and employers’ agent.

DB Construct: Specialising in providing sustainable solutions covering the whole building life cycle, including: feasibility, white boxing, unit amalgamation, shell & core, fit out, commercial build, extensions, and refurbishments.

DB Digital: Specialising in BIM model production, 3D modelling, digital twinning, site surveying, and bespoke digital programme management.

Silva Projects: Specialising in development delivery including master planning, development management and tenant delivery. Current clients include Landsec, and Red Sea Global, Saudi Arabia.

To ensure we always deliver bespoke services and fulfil all client expectations, we are continuously developing strategic partnerships with other local professional SMEs. If you are interested in strategic partnerships, or for more information on how we could work together, please contact db@delbosque.co.uk If you are interested in working for this dynamic company, please get in touch at careers@delbosque.co.uk

28 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Events sector is bouncing back faster than UK average New research into the impact of business events to the West Midlands reveals that the region is recovering from the Covid-19 pandemic quicker than the UK average.

In its latest report for the West Midlands Growth Company, data compiled by RJS Associates shows that the region’s business events performance in 2022 – which includes meetings, conferences and events held in the West Midlands – was at approximately 78 per cent of 2019 levels.

This demonstrates a significant recovery when comparing data to the national average of 73 per cent (source: UKCAMS).

Last year, the West Midlands hosted 8.3 million local, national and international delegates (82p er cent of 2019 levels) – equating to 11.6 million delegate days – at 81,700 business events. The business events sector in the region generated £1.9bn of direct spend, supporting 43,000 full-time equivalent jobs.

Neil Rami, chief executive of the West Midlands Growth Company, said: “The world meets in the West Midlands. Our business events sector has long been a feather in the region’s cap, thanks to unparalleled connectivity, an outstanding variety of venues, and the warmth, authenticity and expertise of our staff and ambassadors.

“We are encouraged that this latest events data shows that the West Midlands is resiliently spearheading the sector’s reemergence after a period of great difficulty during the pandemic.

“We are determined to use the positive energy from the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, coupled with exciting new developments, to ensure that organisers continue to pick the West Midlands, as our events sector completes its recovery.”

It was recently announced that Birmingham will be host city for the 18th edition of the SportAccord World Sport & Business Summit (7-11 April 2024, the ICC).

Clarity needed on Net Zero Business leaders have warned that changes to the Government’s environmental policies could impact negatively on businesses who are striving to hit their own Net Zero targets.

It came as Prime Minister Rishi Sunak announced the rolling back of some of the Government’s environmental commitments.

Among the changes announced by Mr Sunak included a five-year delay on the ban on new diesel and petrol vehicles to 2035. The ban on fossil fuel boilers will be delayed for certain households and grants for boiler upgrade schemes will increase by 50 per cent to £7,500.

The Prime Minister has also pledged to scrap new policies that force landlords to upgrade the energy efficiency of their properties. Despite these significant changes, the Mr Sunak insisted that the UK’s Net Zero target for 2050 will remain in place.

But Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce said these latest policy changes could impact negatively on businesses who are committed to implementing their own environmental strategies.

Kuran Singh, policy advisor at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), said: “Across Greater Birmingham, businesses continue to show an increasing commitment to achieving Net Zero. According to the GBCC’s Net Zero and Business Insights report, 65 per cent of businesses implemented measures aimed at reducing their environmental impact- an increase of 6 per cent compared to 2021.

“Whereas local businesses will welcome the move towards improving the planning process and access to the grid, many will question the validity of rowing back on the transition to electric vehicles.

“Ultimately, the continuous changes to Net Zero policies can only negatively impact business confidence and strategic planning. It is vitally important to provide businesses with confidence and clarity, to reduce the impact of implementing environmental initiatives.

“The government must look to introduce legislation that it will stick to, to provide businesses with the confidence they need to make decisions related to the Net Zero agenda.

“Businesses across the region can learn more about implementing environmentally friendly measures in the GBCC’s upcoming Sustainable Business Series, which seeks to share best practise and insight, supporting businesses in the transition to Net Zero.”

Go to greaterbirmingham chambers.com to register for the Sustainable Business Series.

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BUSINESS NEWS Identifying with the city: Birmingham Newman University

Name change for university Newman University, recently named best in the UK for student satisfaction in the National Student Survey, has officially changed its name to Birmingham Newman University.

The change, approved by the Secretary of State for Education, reflects Birmingham Newman University's rich heritage in Birmingham, along with its ongoing commitment to providing a first-class education and opening up life-changing opportunities for those who wish to live and work in the city and surrounding area.

Professor Jackie Dunne, vice-chancellor at Birmingham Newman University, said: "The name change reflects the University's aim to better identify with the dynamic and ambitious city of Birmingham.

“This is a significant development for the university, coming at an exciting time after the successful launch of our state-of-the-art School of Nursing and Allied Health.

“Birmingham is a vibrant city, with a strong history of innovation and social justice. As the city continues to evolve as a hub of innovation, culture, and education, we look forward to developing our own part in that

Expo to explore local opportunities Representatives of four leading organisations will be participating in a seminar to increase local business awareness of accessing a range of opportunities during the upcoming Greater Birmingham Business Expo.

The seminar will be held from 2pm to 3pm at the Greater Birmingham Business Expo on 6 October at Edgbaston Stadium.

Panellists include: • John Lawley, IT procurement manager of Gymshark • Kingston Myles, director of enterprise and innovation of Birmingham Museums Trust • Matt Munn from Balfour Beatty VINCI Joint Venture • Steve Sandercock, assistant director - procurement of Birmingham City Council Businesses from all sectors will be taking part in the expo which also includes a speed networking and another seminar on ‘Pitch to Win: SMEs & Local Procurement’.

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journey, expanding our offer to students from the West Midlands and beyond.”

Located in Bartley Green, Birmingham, the university was founded in 1968 as Newman College as a teacher training college and then achieved full university status in 2013.

It is named after Saint John Henry Newman, who dedicated much of his life to the people of Birmingham and who developed the tutorial system which is used across the university sector.

Today, Birmingham Newman University offers a wide range of foundation, undergraduate, and postgraduate degree courses, with subjects including nursing, teacher training, business management, law and psychology.

The University will undergo a comprehensive rebranding process over the coming weeks to reflect its new identity and was hold an open day on Saturday, 7 October, from 10am to 3pm.

For more information, go to: newman.ac.uk

Pub partners with Arrive Alive A life-saving defibrillator and a bleed kit has been installed at a pub in South Yardley, thanks to a new partnership with Arrive Alive charity.

The Journeys End pub based in South Yardley have partnered with Arrive Alive to help improve lifesaving resources within the local community along with raising vital charitable funds for the non-government funded charity.

Arrive Alive is the UK’s only registered charity of its kind dedicated to funding lifesaving resources for communities from defibrillators to voluntary operated 999 vehicles, with more vehicles needed.

There are 11 voluntary-operated 999 vehicles across the Midlands providing emergency medical assistance within those vital minutes before a road or air ambulance. Each vehicle is dispatched to a medical emergency by West Midlands Ambulance Service.

Freddie Smith, manager of Journeys End pub, said: “It is great to work with a small charity that makes a massive difference to the community and helps to save lives.

“The team at the Journeys End would like to say a massive thank you to everyone who has helped raise the money to purchase a defibrillator and bleed kit for the local community.

“There are also a number of events scheduled to help to raise funds for Arrive Alive at The Journeys End. The team look forward to continuing to support their lifesaving work.”

Founder of Arrive Alive Debbie Roscoe said: “From the first meeting with Freddie his enthusiasm for the local community along with his can-do attitude has been fantastic.

“It is wonderful to see a publically-assessable defibrillator and bleed kit become operational. It is the result of the hard work of The Journeys End team and

customers with their fundraising. From weekly raffles to collection pots every penny raised makes a tremendous difference.

The team will also be hosting a number of CPR training sessions in the coming months to enable more members of the community to keep someone’s heart beating.

To find out more about Arrive Alive, go to: arrivealiveresponse.co.uk

Life-saver: A defibrillator like the one installed at The Journeys End pub

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BUSINESS NEWS

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BUSINESS NEWS

Eco-friendly events to impress your guests A lasting impression on your guests and positive impact on the planet – sustainable events at eighteen clubspace.

Discover the epitome of mindful, sustainable luxury at eighteen clubspace, situated on the 18th floor of 103 Colmore Row in Birmingham.

The exclusive venue, run by purpose-driven flexible workspace provider, x+why, offers guests a unique and private space for working, meeting, and relaxing.

At eighteen, our hospitality team is committed to creating memorable private and corporate events with sustainability at heart. We take pride in our seasonal food and drinks menus, which feature signature cocktails and locally sourced ingredients. Whether you're here for breakfast, lunch, or dinner, our ethically sourced and carefully curated food menu will tantalise your taste buds.

We’d love to help you create your next sustainable event.

Just recently, the team at eighteen have produced 10mile canapé menus, inspired by and sourced from the local area in Birmingham, reducing food miles and supporting local producers. Indulge for instance in ex dairy cow charcuterie, a unique and ecofriendly culinary experience that minimises food waste.

For those who appreciate a fine bubbly, we serve B Corpcertified champagne, guaranteeing that your celebrations support good business practice. Try our wonky fruit hydration station, savour refreshingly healthy beverages while contributing to the fight against food waste.

At eighteen, we’re here to make your events truly special.

Whether it's a corporate gathering or a personal celebration. Contact us today and let us create a sustainable event that leaves a lasting impression while making a positive impact on the planet.

Join us in redefining indulgence, one eco-conscious celebration at a time.

For more information, to book your event or take a tour of the space, get in touch with the team – eighteen@xandwhy.co.uk

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SPONSORED BY: XANDWHY

BIRA calls for government to reduce burdens The British Independent Retailers Association (BIRA) has said figures from the BRC-Nielsen Shop Price Index show that the government needs to do more to reduce cost burdens for businesses.

BIRA, which works with over 6,000 independent businesses of all sizes across the UK, said that although shop price annual inflation had decelerated further to 6.9 per cent in August, down from 7.6 per cent in July, food inflation was still in double digits.

It also reported: • Shop price annual inflation decelerated further to 6.9 per cent in August, down from 7.6 per cent in July. This is below the three-month average rate of 7.7 per cent. Shop price growth is at its lowest since October 2022.

• Non-food inflation remained unchanged at 4.7 per cent in August. This is below the threemonth average rate of five per cent. Inflation is its lowest since December 2022.

• Food inflation decelerated to 11.5 per cent in August, down from 13.1 per cent in July. This is below the three-month average rate of

13.6 per cent and is the fourth consecutive deceleration in the food category. Inflation is its lowest since September 2022.

• Fresh food inflation slowed further in August, to 11.6 per cent, down from 14.3 per cent in July. This is below the threemonth average rate of 13.8 per cent and inflation in this category remains elevated.

Inflation is its lowest since August 2022.

• Ambient food inflation decelerated to 11.3 per cent in August, down from 12.3 per cent in July. This is below the threemonth average rate of 12.2 per cent and is the lowest since January 2023.

Andrew Goodacre, BIRA CEO, said: “While inflation has fallen again and this is very welcome, food inflation is still in double digits and that is worrying.

"A recent report by the Retail Sector Council showed that a 10 per cent rise in the cost of essential reduces discretionary expenditure by 72 per cent. This shows how difficult it is for the thousands of non-food independent retailers throughout the UK, compounded by a poor summer.

Food inflation worrying: Andrew Goodacre

“This also means that the government must do all it can to reduce cost burdens which is why we want to see the current retail discount for business rates made permanent at 75 per cent.”

‘While inflation has fallen again and this is very welcome, food inflation is still in double digits’ Bira is actively pursuing a comprehensive reform of business rates in the UK to alleviate the burden on smaller enterprises.

It has been engaging in discussions with members of Parliament, the Department of Business and Trade and the Treasury.

Bank appoints relations expert Greg Dunne has been appointed relationship director in Paragon Bank’s Development Finance division.

He brings two decades of development finance experience to the Solihull-based bank and joins the team following six years as a lending director at Pluto Finance.

Greg will report to senior relationship director, Nigel Jackson, and will oversee the management of an expanding client portfolio.

Paragon’s Development Finance division grew lending by 24 per cent over the last financial year to £623.2m, with the loan book increasing to £719.9m up from £608.2m the year before.

Greg said: “With a strong reputation in the market for client service and expert knowledge of the sector, Paragon is ready to support developers in achieving their goals.

“Paragon has an outstanding portfolio of clients with whom we share a mutual understanding and passion for delivering high-quality developments. It’s a great time to join the business and I’m looking forward to building strong relationships with both existing and new clients over the years ahead.”

Senior relationship director Nigel Jackson added: “I’m excited to welcome Greg to our team. With Greg’s significant property development experience, he will offer invaluable support to our clients by developing bespoke financing solutions designed to meet their requirements.”

Support: Greg Dunne

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BUSINESS NEWS

Louise takes the mantle as vice lord-lieutenant

Commitment: Louise Bennett

Louise Bennett OBE has been appointed vice lordlieutenant to the West Midlands’ lord-lieutenant, Sir John Crabtree OBE. The role of vice lord-lieutenant for the West Midlands is for a three-year term and involves assisting the lordlieutenant in the performance of his duties.

Louise previously worked as the director of policy at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

The former chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce will succeed professor Helen Higson OBE, professor of higher education learning and management at Aston University, whose three-year term included Coventry’s Capital of Culture in 2021 and the Commonwealth Games in 2022. During that time she also championed opportunities for disadvantaged young people.

Louise, whose career has spanned both the private and public sectors including working for the National Health Service and in the retail sector, was appointed a Deputy Lieutenant for the West Midlands in 2014.

She was high sheriff of the County of the West Midlands in 2021 and was recently appointed chair of the high sheriff nominations committee for the West Midlands.

She sits on the high sheriff association’s council of England and Wales and is a trustee of Crimebeat - a charity supported by the High Sheriff Association.

From 2003 to December 2022, she was chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. She is also president of Warwickshire College University Centre, a pro bono post she has held since October 2022.

With a strong commitment to young people, Louise has also held voluntary positions with school, college and university boards, as well as being a career and enterprise adviser in the West Midlands.

As approved foster carers, Louise and her husband also welcome young people into their home with the aim of providing a safe environment, warmth and support.

In 2007, Louise was awarded an OBE in the Queen’s birthday honours list for her services to business.

Louise said: “I have a particular interest in young people, skills and enterprise and intend to continue the invaluable work of the Lieutenancy to enable more people to benefit from the many opportunities that this great region can offer.”

Sir John added: "I am greatly looking forward to working with Louise whose passion for the West Midlands and its varied communities is evident from her extensive and varied work to date.”

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BUSINESS NEWS

Understanding menopause The Leadership Coaches are introducing a series of complimentary workshops to provide organisations with external support in understanding the impact of menopause in the workplace.

With the number of women, trans-men and non-binary people assigned women at birth between the ages of 45 and 55 saying that menopause symptoms have a negative impact on them at work (according to the CIPD), the organisation says it’s crucial that organisations begin to take steps to overcome the taboo in the workplace.

‘This workshop is a must-do for organisations that care about their colleagues’ The 90-minute virtual workshop with menopause coach Jo will take place during International Menopause Month. Attendees can expect to learn more about why perimenopause, menopause, and post-menopause happen, the symptoms, and the impact it can have on women, transmen and non-binary people personally and in the workplace.

Suitable for anyone within the organisation hoping to understand and support colleagues, employees, and peers, The Leadership Coaches will host this workshop on the following dates on Wednesday, 11 October (noon1.30pm) and Thursday, 12 October (3pm-4.30pm).

To register email:rebekah@theleadershipc oaches.co.uk.

The Leadership Coaches will also offer workshop attendees and their organisations 50 per cent off menopause workshops and coaching throughout October.

CEO Zoé Lewis says: “Finally, we are opening up conversations about why so many women and transgender men step back and even quit their roles when they hit menopause. ‘’This workshop is a mustdo for organisations that care about their colleagues and want them to thrive. It’s a great example of inclusivity in the workplace and will support organisations in their quest to be employers of choice.”

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Commitment to a better society: Unity Trust Bank

Unity Trust Bank reveals record lending figures Unity Trust Bank has reported a record level of lending in its half-year results – exceeding £900m for the first time in its history and growing nine per cent from last year.

With a continued commitment to create a better society through safe growth, 37 per cent of Unity’s financing in the first six months of 2023 went into areas of high deprivation.

Eighty-one per cent of these loans were allocated to local businesses delivering impact in their communities, and 15 per cent to organisations creating solutions that specifically help disadvantaged or marginalised people.

Supporting lending customers through a period of financial uncertainty has also been a key focus for Unity, with each receiving dedicated assistance from a relationship manager who understands their organisations and their needs.

Profit before tax increased to £28.7m (30 June 2022: £9.6m), and Unity has reinvested into the growth of the bank through recruitment and new technology to enhance customer experiences, improve services and bolster operational resilience.

Deborah Hazell, CEO at Unity Trust Bank, said: “Our purpose, as a bank with a social conscience, is to provide excellent banking services to organisations that contribute to the common good and deliver sustainable returns.

“Unity continues to thrive through this purpose and we’re proud of the positive social impact we support in local communities across the UK through our carefully considered approach to lending.

“Our excellent first half performance, with a return on equity of 32.9 per cent, demonstrates that it is possible to both contribute positively to society and be financially strong.”

As an award-winning commercial bank that celebrates its 40th anniversary next year, Unity was the first UK bank to become a Real Living Wage employer in 2013 and the first to be accredited with the Fair Tax Mark.

With offices in Birmingham, London and Manchester, Unity is also a disability confident employer, a member of the Banking Standards Board, holder of the Investors in People Gold standard, a member of the Global Alliance for Banking on Values and a signatory to the Partnerships for Carbon Accounting Financials (PCAF).

Award-winner to lead hotel team Matt Loughrey has been appointed to lead the team at Radisson Blu Hotel, Birmingham, bringing a wealth of experience and local knowledge to the role.

Named as Birmingham’s Young Achiever 2018, Matt’s most recent position was general manager at Sketchley Grange Hotel, Spa & Conference Centre, Hinckley.

Previously, he was head of operations at Edgbaston Park Hotel & Conference Centre and he has held several hotel leadership roles with Marriott, Hilton, Interstate and Q-Hotels.

Matt has led hotels to success, winning awards such as Best Hotel at the Midlands Food, Drink and Hospitality Awards while at Genting Hotel, and Greater Birmingham's Chambers of Commerce's Contribution to the Community

Award 2022 for community efforts at Edgbaston Park.

Matt said: “As a proud Brummie, I have seen the growth of Radisson Blu Hotel, Birmingham, from its initial construction to where it is today.

“I am extremely honoured to have been appointed general

Serial achiever: Matt Loughrey

manager of such an iconic building, instantly recognisable as part of Birmingham's skyline, and renowned for quality service, firstclass facilities and a well-respected team.

“The hotel is a great asset for the city, and we intend on playing a big role in future projects and initiatives, being a force for good in our local area and proudly representing the Radisson brand.”

Matt is a passionate ambassador for The Burnt Chef Project, a social enterprise focused on removing the stigma around mental health in the hospitality industry.

He also founded Walk & Talk Midlands - a men's mental health support group, which organises walks throughout the year to get active, get talking and to generally offer support.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce We are currently carrying out the design and build for the new premises of the Greater Birmingham October 2023 CHAMBERLINK 37

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BUSINESS NEWS

Eco-friendly: An computer generated image of how the Aston Church Road bridge which will span the HS2 line will look

HS2 expands its reach right across the region The impact of the construction of the HS2 railway is being felt right across the Midlands. Here Chamberlink takes a look at three projects that are key to principles adopted by HS2’s main works contractor for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV). They include working in an eco-friendly way, preserving and creating wildlife habitats and producing the talent critical to the success of Europe’s biggest construction project.

An eco-friendly road bridge over the HS2 line in Birmingham has been approved by planners, with new designs ensuring the structure blends sympathetically with the local environment.

HS2 Ltd has received approval from Birmingham City Council for the Aston Church Road Overbridge, which will span the high-speed rail line connecting Saltley, Washwood Heath and Nechells in north-east Birmingham.

LED technology provides increased lighting levels for pedestrians and cyclists. This lighting design will also protect wildlife, particularly bats that may forage underneath the bridge, by decreasing overall light pollution.

Also public feedback resulted in the stainless steel finish being replaced with weathered steel panels

incorporating a perforated pattern to maximise light and views.

HS2’s designers, consisting of a Design Joint Venture of Mott MacDonald and Systra working for BBV, have also introduced green spaces by creating new woodland planting in the area around the bridge. This includes silver birch, hazel and hawthorn, and wildflowers and grasses which will provide new wildlife havens and connectivity in the city’s industrial heartland.

David King, senior project manager at HS2 Ltd said: “The bridge is a key part of the wider improvements HS2 is bringing to this area of Birmingham, providing better pedestrian and cycle connectivity for the local community which will help support longer-term sustainable economic growth for the area.”

Building careers with T-Levels Three students are striding straight into new careers on Europe’s biggest infrastructure project – HS2 - after securing the results they needed in their Construction - Design, Surveying and Planning T-Level.

As part of their studies at Walsall College, Jemma Lahert-Cotterill, Finn Watson and Charlotte Gibberson successfully completed 45-day industry placements with HS2’s construction partner, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV), which accounted for 20 per cent of their final grade.

They will now begin their Civil Engineering Degree Level Apprenticeships, fully funded by 38 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

BBV, and study at the University of Wolverhampton while working on HS2.

BBV was one of the first construction companies to support the Construction - Design, Surveying

and Planning T-Level, recognising the vital role it can play in attracting more young people into the transport infrastructure sector.

It formed a partnership with Walsall College in 2020 when TLevels were first introduced, and now also works with Solihull College, Thomas Telford UTC, Dudley College, and Warwickshire College Group to ensure more students in the West Midlands are given the opportunity to secure industry placements on HS2.

HS2 route to careers: Jemma LahertCotterill (left), Finn Watson and Charlotte Gibberson

For more information about careers and opportunities on HS2, visit hs2.org.uk/careers

First giant pier is completed HS2 has completed the first of 32 giant piers for the first Water Orton Viaduct as work ramps up to build the Delta Junction, the project’s most complex network of structures in the West Midlands.

HS2’s main works contractor for the West Midlands, Balfour Beatty VINCI (BBV) is building the 1,400 metre long northbound and southbound structures, which will connect HS2’s Birmingham Curzon Street Station with Crewe and Manchester.

They are part of the Delta Junction, which is a triangular section of the high-speed railway made up of nine precast segmental viaducts, embankments, and other bridging structures, with around 10km of track crossing a network of motorways, roads and rivers.

Reaching 20 metres tall at its highest point, the two Water Orton Viaducts will be among the tallest structures along the HS2 route, taking trains over key transport corridors including the M42, the Birmingham to Peterborough rail line and the River Tame.

The piers will support the deck, which will be built using an innovative construction method and bespoke machinery. The deck segments will be produced at HS2’s nearby outdoor purpose-built Kingsbury factory near Lea Marston.

The factory is making a total of 2,742 segments for the entire Delta Junction, generating over 6km of post tensioned viaduct. The segments will be transported to the site using haul roads to reduce HS2’s impacts on local roads. Special measures have been introduced to reduce environmental impacts.

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BUSINESS NEWS

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.

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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

40 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

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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BUSINESS NEWS

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CHAMBER PATRONS

Chamber Patrons Greater Birmingham Chambers’ leading supporters

Contact: Raj Kandola T: 07815 952462

Solar power plan takes off Room with a view: Millennium Point’s premium office space

Premium office space available Millennium Point has launched Curzon View, its new premium office space which is now available to rent.

Situated on the fourth floor of the iconic Birmingham landmark, Curzon View overlooks the HS2 development on Curzon Street and offers a prime city-centre location for innovative businesses.

Curzon View already has strong transport links being near New Street, Moor Street and Snow Hill stations, and having the Millennium Point car park on site. Situated in Birmingham’s thriving Knowledge Quarter, the offices neighbour Birmingham City University, Aston University and Birmingham’s science museum, Thinktank.

Curzon View offers 1,496m2 of flexible office space with numerous benefits such as natural daylight, air conditioning, AV equipment, LED lighting, and wi-fi. It is equipped for multiple uses to suit different business needs and includes a reception space, kitchen and shower room. Millennium Point also provides tenants with 24-hour security and an on-site support team.

Profits from the rental will support STEM education in the region through Millennium Point’s charitable trust. The trust has donated over £40 million to support schools and not-for-profit organisations.

The offices were previously used for filming of the first series of the BBC crime drama Line of Duty as the offices of the principal characters.

To enquire about Curzon View, call 0121 202 2200 or email info@millennium point.org.uk

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A 6.8-megawatt (MW) configuration of solar panels will provide at least 20 per cent of Birmingham Airport (BHX)’s on-site electrical power, it has been revealed.

Between September 2023 and May 2024, the airport plans to install 12,804 photovoltaic panels on a 1.5km-long, six metre-high, noiseblocking embankment, known as the ‘Alpha Bund,’ which flanks the northeastern edge of the runway, beside the West Coast main line railway.

Once operational the new solar array will: • Move BHX closer to its goal of becoming a net zero carbon airport by 2033.

• Reduce BHX’s reliance on the power grid.

• Reduce its exposure to market price volatility.

To keep its neighbours informed about the upcoming work, representatives from BHX dropped

Putting neighbours in the picture: The BHX team completing their letter drop

postcards with details about the project through the letterboxes of properties along Elmdon Lane and its adjoining roads.

Simon Richards, chief finance and sustainability officer at BHX, said: “Installing our own green energy sources on our airfield is one of many things we are doing to reduce our carbon footprint and become a net zero operation by 2033.

“In the next decade we will see many transformational steps forward in the aviation sector, including the

game-changing prospect of hydrogen-powered, zero-emission passenger flights. With the impacts of climate change all too real, steps like this represent us doing our bit to help protect our planet’s future for generations to come.”

Work is intended to be completed in May 2024. Working hours will be 8am to 6pm Monday to Friday.

Any noisy work will not take place until after 9am to minimise impacts on the airport’s neighbours.

Tech firm offers safety advice Intercity is holding a free event aimed at protecting businesses from cybersecurity threats at the Edgbaston stadium on 18 October.

The Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) patron is inviting business owners, board members and senior leaders to 'Get Security Onboard'.

Intercity is a leading IT Services Provider which provides the highest level of industry expertise and cutting-edge IT solutions in managed services, security, cloud infrastructure services, enterprise mobility, and collaboration tools.

Intercity has been named the Official IT Partner of the Edgbaston Cricket Stadium, supporting them in a new phase of regeneration as they aim to become a world-class tech enabled cricket stadium.

Sessions will include Q&As with industry experts, where they’ll cross-examine a real-life security breach and provide valuable insight and guidance on how to build a security-minded culture. There will also be an opportunity to network with fellow professionals who share the common goal of enhancing their cyber security posture.

The event will also explore the key to transforming cyber threats into strategic opportunities including; • Grasping the cyber consequences: Immerse in the world of cyber hazards and seamlessly integrate

them strategic decision-making. Understand how these threats can reshape policies for the better.

• Navigate the nexus: Unravel the intricate connections between business goals, legal obligations, and cyber vulnerabilities. Discover the true impact of non-compliance on an organisation and its leadership.

• Framework for success: Get acquainted with cyber security management frameworks and learn to embed them within business and evaluate their effectiveness.

Go to www.intercity.technology to sign up and learn more.

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CHAMBER PATRONS Dedicated to Doug: The performance hub hosts activities such as dance, yoga and music

Performance space named after patron Richard Kramer, chief executive of Sense, said: “The A charity supporting people who are deafblind and performance hub at Sense TouchBase Pears is an have complex disabilities has benefited from a important space for disabled people from across the significant donation by a Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce patron.

West Midlands to be able to participate in art and sports sessions that they might otherwise not be able National disability charity Sense, whose community to access. hub Sense Touchbase Pears is located in Selly Oak, “Spaces like the Performance Hub at TouchBase Pears Birmingham, has named one of its spaces – which is bring people together, helping to used for activities such as dance, music and yoga – The Douglas tackle isolation and loneliness which ‘Spaces like the is prevalent among disabled people.

Wright MBE Performance Hub. “We’re so thankful for Mr The space has been renamed Performance Hub at Wright’s generous donation to in recognition of McDonald’s TouchBase Pears bring Sense, which will help us to reach franchisee and Chamber patron people together’ and support even more disabled Doug Wright’s pledge to the people across the region, and we’re charity. delighted to rename the space to Sense TouchBase Pears aims to The Douglas Wright MBE Performance Hub as a symbol create an accessible environment where everyone can of our gratitude.” feel connected, included and part of the community.

Mr Wright is the owner of Wright Restaurants (T/A The Bristol Road-based hub combines health and McDonald’s) which employs just under 3,000 people social care services with arts, sports and wellbeing across 26 McDonald’s sites in the West Midlands. Last activities. year, he received an MBE in the Queen’s Birthday It also supports disabled people to access Honours list for services to the Economy and Charity. employment, education, volunteering and training Mr Wright said: “I’m delighted to support an opportunities and offers free play sessions for children exceptional charity who do so very much for local under eight with complex disabilities, and their people in our communities.” families.

Milestone at Magic Breakfasts The Wesleyan Foundation has reached the milestone of funding over half a million breakfasts for hungry schoolchildren through the charity Magic Breakfast.

Wesleyan, a patron of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, has donated £145,500 to Magic Breakfast since 2019, including £53,000 so far this year.

Magic Breakfast provides healthy breakfasts to children and young people in the UK who arrive at school too hungry to learn as well as expert support to their schools.

Nathan Wallis, chief of staff at Wesleyan, said: “Magic Breakfast does incredible work helping children start their school day with the nutrition and energy they need to learn and develop. We’re proud to support them as they continue their vital work to ensure no child is too hungry to learn.”

Ali Roberts, head of corporate partnerships at Magic Breakfast, said: “The current cost-of-living

crisis is really stretching family finances and this is sadly having a knock-on effect on the number of children and young people at risk of going to school hungry. When a child is hungry, they cannot learn and this can impact their education and life chances.

“We are incredibly grateful to Wesleyan Foundation for their generous donation which is enabling us to provide free, nutritious breakfasts to pupils

across the UK, giving them the chance to reach their full potential.”

In 2017 Wesleyan launched the Wesleyan Foundation as part of its commitment to supporting great causes that are important to their members and the communities in which they live and work. The Foundation has since donated over £5m and supported more than 440,000 people across 500 different UK charities, community groups and social enterprises.

Sweet smiles: Two of the children who have benefited from Wesleyan generosity

Firm growing in strength: Jayne Hussey

Record year for Mills & Reeve National law firm Mills & Reeve has had a successful year with a double-digit turnover in the latest financial results supported by accolades and milestones with regional growth for their Birmingham office.

Turnover for 2022/23 grew by 12 per cent, beating an ambitious planned growth target of 11.4 per cent, to reach a record high of £147m.

As a result of the strong financial performance the firm announced a record all-staff bonus pool of £2.6m, meaning staff received between £2,327 and £2,676 depending on length of service.

The strong financial results follow another successful year at the firm which has achieved several significant milestones and awards.

Jayne Hussey, head of the Mills & Reeve Birmingham office, said: “As we celebrate 25 years of Mills & Reeve in Birmingham, we’ve seen substantial growth over the past year, not only financially but in the amount of new talent that has joined us.

“We’ve had 63 new starters join our office since 1 June 2022, including Simon Garbett, a high-profile commercial disputes lawyer who continues to build on the significant influence we have in the region on this particular area. We’ve also welcomed a number of trainees and newly qualified lawyers. We look forward to many exciting developments coming down the track for the next year.”

Commenting on the financial performance, Claire Clarke, Mills & Reeve managing partner, said: “We consider it a crucial part of our culture to share the firm’s financial success with all our people. Everyone contributes to the growth of our business in different ways and our all staff bonus is a great way to recognise this.”

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

1813 Club and Premier Members

Premier Membership Contact: Gary Birch T: 0845 6036650

Greater Birmingham’s leading companies

Take steps to protect inheritance Adam Maguire, (pictured) partner and family law expert at national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP, looks at how to protect inheritance from divorce.

It is often the case that, in the context of a separation and divorce, concerns are raised by one of the parties as to the other’s ability to make claims in respect of their received or prospective inheritances.

Many consider that inheritances ought to be ringfenced on divorce for the party to whom it has been left but the law is not that straightforward. However, there are steps which can minimise the risk of inherited assets being “invaded” in the event of a divorce.

The starting point in law is that the assets acquired during the marriage through the joint efforts of the parties will form the “matrimonial property” and are subject to the sharing principle, which means they ought to be divided equally between the parties.

An inheritance received by one party should not usually - absent from other factors - be considered matrimonial property and, therefore, should not be subject to sharing. The court distinguishes between matrimonial assets and non-matrimonial assets. It has been recognised in case law that a party should be allowed to retain nonmatrimonial property, brought into the marriage at the outset, inherited or gifted during the marriage if the other party's

financial needs can be met without recourse to those assets.

This is where it becomes more complicated. Even if an inheritance is considered non-matrimonial property and is, as a result, not subject to the sharing principle, the needs of the parties may trump this point, requiring it to be invaded.

In any event, it can also be taken into account as a resource of the party who holds it and, while they may be allowed to retain the inherited assets, the other party may receive more of the other matrimonial assets in order to meet their own needs.

Whether an inheritance remains non-matrimonial or becomes matrimonial in nature over time will depend upon how the parties have managed their financial affairs, how long it has been since the inheritance was received and what has been done with it.

Non-matrimonial property can become “mingled” with matrimonial property over time, changing its nature and increasing the likelihood it will be subject to sharing. For example, if this has been used to invest in the matrimonial home, regardless of whether this is in the parties’ joint names or not.

There is also a distinction to be made between inheritances received and prospective

inheritances. An inheritance which has already been received is undoubtedly a resource which that party has access to. However, the court ought to recognise that, in the case of a prospective inheritance, people are free to change their will at any time and so, unless such an inheritance is imminent and guaranteed, arguments about such assets should be treated with caution.

The best ways to protect your inheritance from divorce are: 1. To keep any inheritances separate from the matrimonial assets. Do not utilise those assets for the joint benefit of both parties nor invest this into joint property (or even a property in your sole name if this will be the matrimonial property in which you live).

2. Maintain careful records which show the source of the funds and which show that this has not been mingled in with the joint assets. This can be particularly useful where an inheritance has been received many years before a divorce.

3. Undertake careful estate planning to create additional layers of protection and ensure that your professional advisors know you wish to protect your inheritance

from the potential of divorce.

Otherwise, that estate and/or any tax planning may involve transferring assets or putting them in joint names.

4. Take legal advice as to your particular circumstances. A family lawyer can advise on the likely exposure of your inheritance. For example, if the inheritance forms a substantial part of the assets in a particular case, it may be much more difficult to protect and careful strategies may need to be adopted.

5. Put in place a pre or post nuptial agreement. This is the best option for protecting inheritance from divorce as you can determine what assets are considered matrimonial and non-matrimonial, what should be shared or retained in the event of the divorce and, provided this is properly executed with various conditions being met, all parties should expect to be held to the terms of that agreement.

Finance firm among best to work at in UK Birmingham-based Colmore Partners has been recognised as one of the UK’s best workplaces in financial services and insurance by Great Place to Work UK. The chartered independent financial planning firm has been revealed as being among the top five best performing small and medium organisations.

Colmore Partners has been lauded for its workplace culture, with 92 per cent of employees stating the company made them feel welcome.

The firm was also commended for the strength of its internal communication, integrity and the 44 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

behaviour of its leadership team, as well as the pride employees expressed in working for the business.

Simon Hoult, director and head of proposition at Colmore Partners, said: “This is a highly prestigious accolade which provides further credibility that we are one of the leaders in our field. It is the result of a thorough and rigorous award process, underpinned by research-backed and anonymous employee experience surveys in key areas.

“The announcement supports the efforts we have made to create a great company culture at

Colmore Partners, through a caring workplace environment where employees are listened to, invested in and encouraged to develop.”

Benedict Gautrey, managing director of Great Place To Work UK said: “It’s great to see so many examples of organisations making their workplaces truly ‘great’. Huge congratulations to Colmore Partners for making one of our most prestigious lists.”

Surveys asked employees to comment on how their company supports work-life balance, sense of fulfilment, job satisfaction, psychological safety and financial security.

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1813 CLUB AND PREMIER MEMBERS

Uncertainty restricts hiring

Spectacular: Part of the Arboretum’s mile-long Christmas display

Winter light trail to return Tickets are now on sale for Illuminated Arboretum, the annual spectacular winter light trail through the majestic gardens and woodlands of the National Memorial Arboretum in the National Forest in Staffordshire.

Every evening from Thursday 7 to Saturday 23 December, visitors will be able to see a new mile-long immersive display of light, colour and sound in what has become an annual highlight of the festive season across the region.

As part of the new route debuting this year, Illuminated Arboretum will feature several new displays, including a multisensory tribute to the ‘Windrush

Generation’, commemorating the 75th anniversary of the arrival of the HMT Empire Windrush on UK shores.

These new additions will be complemented by firm visitor favourites such as the iconic ‘Beacons of Hope’ light display over the Armed Forces Memorial at the heart of the Arboretum.

Tickets cost £19 for adults and £9 for children (under 5s and carers are free) if booked before 5 November.

All tickets must be purchased on the Arboretum website in advance: www.thenma.org.uk/what'son/events-exhibitions-and-talks/events/ illuminated-arboretum

Sustained economic uncertainty and cautious recruitment policies continued to hinder hiring activity in the Midlands, according to the latest KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs survey, compiled by S&P Global.

Recruiters registered the sharpest reduction in permanent staff appointments since May 2020 when the Covid-19 pandemic was at its peak. However, recruiters displayed some confidence in temp billings, which rose for the third consecutive month.

There were marked increases in the availability of both permanent and temporary staff, with the former rising at the steepest rate since December, 2020, amid increased redundancies. Pay pressures in the Midlands also strengthened during August, as recruiters mentioned that clients were raising salaries in order to attract staff, although there were mentions that the increased cost of living contributed to staff requesting higher pay levels.

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE

International Trade

T: 0845 603 6650 E: ibh@birmingham-chamber.com

It’s official: Brum is event city of the year Policy makers: Carl Richardson (third left) with Dean Alyssa Ayres (right) and other personnel from the George Washington University's Institute for International Economic Policy

Carl accepts position at top US university Carl Richardson has accepted the position of co-chair of the Executive Circle at George Washington University's Institute for International Economic Policy (IIEP).

Mr. Richardson, one of the three brothers who run the Richardson businesses, is an alumnus of the Elliott School of International Affairs, based at the prestigious George Washington University.

Alongside fellow alumnus, Lisa Schroeter, Carl will now co-chair the IIEP Executive Circle. Lisa currently holds the position of global director of trade & investment policy at Dow, the global materials science business.

The Executive Circle offers strategic guidance to the University's IIEP, located at the Elliott School. This influential global group also mentors and supports students in the Elliott School’s MA program in international economic policy.

Carl and Lisa replace Deborah Lehr and Frank Wong as co-chairs of the Executive Circle.

Deborah Lehr is the executive director of the Paulson Institute, working closely with Hank Paulson, the former CEO and chairman of Goldman Sachs and former United States Secretary of the Treasury.

Based in Hong Kong, Frank Wong is the Asia President of Scholastic Inc., the world's largest publisher and distributor of children's books and education material.

Dean Ayres said: “I am delighted and excited that Lisa and Carl are the new chairs.

Their inspiring leadership will help us to strengthen the IIEP Executive Circle and deepen connections across the GW and Elliott School global community.”

46 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Birmingham and the West Midlands has fought off competition from cities and countries across the world – including Miami, Spain, Greece, Japan and Dubai – to be named Event Destination of the Year at the EN (Exhibition News) Supplier Awards.

After a year in which the West Midlands was in the international spotlight thanks to events including the Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth Games, the region beat major overseas destinations to win the top prize at an awards ceremony for the exhibitions industry.

Birmingham and the West Midlands Convention Bureau, part of the West Midlands Growth Company, took home the accolade at the EN Supplier Awards 2023. Organised by Exhibition News magazine, the awards celebrate the role that suppliers play in driving forward the exhibitions industry and delivering innovative, sustainable and inspirational shows.

Neil Rami, chief executive of the West Midlands Growth Company, said: "The West Midlands has long been a favourite for exhibition organisers, but 2022 took us to new heights – showcasing not only our ability to host major events on a global scale, but also the potential

Champagne moment: Awards host Aaron James and Steve Knight, of the Birmingham and the West Midlands Convention Bureau

for those events to bring huge cultural and economic benefits to the region.

“Winning this award is testament to the fantastic work delivered by all the unsung heroes in our exhibitions sector. We are confident there'll be plenty more to look forward to in the months and years to come as our West Midlands business events and accommodation offer continues to grow.”

Kelly Haslehurst, marketing director for conventions and exhibitions at the NEC Group, said: “We’re proud to have played a part in being named Event Destination of the Year.

“The NEC has a rich legacy of hosting some of the UK’s most loved events.

“We truly believe the NEC is a venue with endless possibilities, as we continue to develop our offering to deliver above and beyond expectations and help keep Birmingham and the West Midlands at the forefront of the events industry.”

BAB publishes key agenda A leading transatlantic trade body has set out the key issues that will “help deepen economic integration” between the UK and United States.

BritishAmerican Business (BAB) – of which the Greater Birmingham Transatlantic Chamber of Commerce is part - has published its policy agenda for the year ahead: Recommendations for a 21st Century US-UK Economic Partnership.

BAB says the policy agenda closely reflects the ambitions and commitments set out in the Atlantic Declaration. It includes six main themes, each with its own set of recommendations for policymakers. These include digital transformation, aerospace and defence, clean and sustainable energy, digital skills, competition and regulation and trade and investment.

BAB board chair Gavin Patterson said: “A skilled workforce powers innovation and is the currency of the future.

“As the Atlantic Declaration sets out, the US and UK governments are intent on taking a leading role in the advancement of AI and emerging technologies. This will only be possible if our economies invest in human capital and produce the right talent with the right skills.”

BAB CEO Duncan Edwards said: “We invite policy makers and stakeholders to engage with this document as it identifies our shared priorities and offers recommendations to drive economic growth and foster transatlantic collaboration.”

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INTERNATIONAL TRADE Global Chamber Patrons

TRANSATLANTIC CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Mandy Haque T: 0121 725 8994

Boost for Birmingham and Sri Lanka links

By Feron Jayawardene Trade links between Greater Birmingham and Sri Lanka received a boost when Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) signed Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with counterparts from the South Asian country.

The MoU was signed during a visit and networking lunch organised by the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka, in partnership with the High Commission of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka.

The delegation, headed by the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka CEO M. Shiham Marikar, signed a memorandum of understanding with the GBCC at Chamber House in Edgbaston.

International director Mandy Haque welcomed the delegation and other speakers included

GBCC president Deb Leary, M. Shiham Marikar, and Somasena Mhadiulwewa.

Deb stressed the importance of signing the MoU with Sri Lanka, saying: “Signing the MoU is important not just because the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka recognises the Sri Lankan Chamber as an ethical trading body, but because Sri Lanka has put themselves as a driver of ethical trading practices on a global scale.”

Minister counsel for the Sri Lanka High Commission Somasena Mahadiulwewa said: “A huge thanks to both the GBCC and the National Chamber of Exporters of Sri Lanka for making this day a reality.

“The UK market is the second highest export market of Sri Lanka with over one-billion exports happening. We are sure both the Chambers will reap the rewards of this event and it will further

Apple shares fall following China ban China’s ban on government workers using iPhones – which led to a dramatic fall in Apple’s share price – could be retaliation to the United States’ restrictions on Chinese tech capabilities, an expert has said.

And Ben Barringer, equity research analyst at investment management firm Quilter Cheviot, believes Apple’s revenue could be hit by as much as five per cent if the ban extends to state-owned businesses.

Mr Barringer believes the ban imposed by the Chinese government could be as a result of the US’ restrictions on Huawei technology introduced by former president Donald Trump.

Mr Barringer said: “The recent move by the Chinese government to restrict the use of nonChinese smartphones is seen by many as a retaliation to the US restrictions on China's tech capabilities.

“This decision primarily impacts Apple, and there's speculation that the restriction might extend to employees of state-owned businesses.

“To put this into perspective, China accounts for approximately 20 per cent of Apple's revenues.

“Government employees represent less than five per cent of China's population, which

Trade agreement (left to right): GBCC international director Mandy Haque, GBCC president Deb Leary, minister counsel for the Sri Lanka High Commission Somasena Mahadiulwewa, National Chamber of Exporters increase bilateral trade and more opportunities to network.”

M. Shiham Marikar said: “Our vision is to make all 750 members of our Chamber qualify for this certificate of ethical trading because we are a country that depends a lot on exports. I’m sure visits like these will further strengthen bilateral trade.”

Chamber delivers tailored training

translates to a potential one per cent decrease in Apple's revenue. If the restrictions spread to stateowned enterprises, Apple could face up to a five per cent revenue impact.

“Additionally, investors are reflecting on the Huawei situation. The Trump administration had previously restricted Huawei, which led to the company's struggles in building a competitive smartphone.

“However, Huawei has now released a new phone, the MATE P60, using Chinese-based silicon. While it's a decent product, it doesn't quite match the iPhone's standards but gives the Chinese a quality alternative.

“Over the past five years, Apple has capitalised on Huawei's absence, capturing a significant market share in China. It's worth noting that the Chinese government typically refrains from imposing bans unless they have a domestic alternative.

“Now that they have a homegrown smartphone option, it accentuates the concerns surrounding these restrictions. The resurgence of Huawei raises the question: will Apple's market share in China decline as Huawei regains its footing?”

A team from the Jacobs Douwe Egberts Coffee company have completed their Foundation Award in International Trade in a course organised by Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC).

JDE’s training needs were discussed in December 2022 by the company’s planning and logistics manager and Birmingham Chambers’ training manager Leah Quarmby.

Key areas and topics were identified resulting in the team undertaking six of the available 11 British Chambers of Commerce training modules tailored to their needs over three months at their premises.

The team said: “Leah, in conjunction with our manager, were brilliant to work with. They were attentive in listening to our needs, asking lots of questions to propose the best six modules to cover our requirements. We went for bespoke training, which meant their manager was able to tailor the content to the world of coffee and allow for plenty of time to discuss our specific challenges.”

To find out more about the Chambers’ training courses, email training@birminghamchamber.com or visit www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com • See courses guide – page 59

October 2023 CHAMBERLINK 47

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ABCC Updates and useful information from the largest ethnic support organisation in the UK Contact: Anjum Khan T: 0845 6036650

Celebrating the successes of ABCC selects new charity of the year The Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) has announced the British Heart Foundation (BHF) as their charity for their annual awards ceremony at the National Conference Centre, Solihull, on 18 November.

Headline sponsors are Doug Wright (T/A McDonalds), Aston University and Lioncroft Wholesale Stores.

BHF funds around £100m of research each year into all heart and circulatory diseases and causes.

They also fund research into saving lives with science, tackling health inequalities, helping people in their hour of need and raising vital funds.

Chrish Perera, (pictured) BHF head of field operations (North), said: “It is an honour for the

BHF to be chosen as the named charity for the ABCC Awards 2023.

“Heart and circulatory diseases are diseases of inequality. Too often, things like ethnicity, where you live, income and/or background, determine your chance of developing – and dying from – heart and circulatory disease. Recognising avoidable and unfair health inequalities linked to ethnic backgrounds is an essential step to addressing the issues in society that lead to them – so it’s important our research and our influencing work in this area continues.

“We are grateful to the members of ABCC for their support and opportunity that will help us continue to fund life-saving research.”

ABCC president Omar Rashid said: “What struck out was BHF’s acknowledgement of the barriers and the need to highlight the serious issues facing within the Asian community.

“We felt the ABCC awards platform was a great way to showcase the work they do and how the Asian community can benefit and get involved.”

For more information contact a.khan@birmingham-chamber.com

Panel praises ‘high calibre’ of applicants The judging panel have completed the arduous task of selecting the shortlisted candidates for the upcoming ABCC awards celebration.

Businesses of all sizes will have the opportunity to be recognised for their accomplishments at The National Conference Centre on Saturday, 18 November.

Chair of the awards judges this year was Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce.

Raj was joined by Mark Smith, executive director of business engagement at Aston University, Professor Martin Levermore, CEO of Medical Devices Technology International Ltd (MDTi), management consultant Mashkura Begum and managing director of MSDUK Reshma Sheikh.

Raj Kandola is tasked at the GBCC with covering the organisation’s research, campaigning, stakeholder engagement and media and communications activity.

Mark Smith is Aston University’s first executive director of business engagement. He takes strategic responsibility for all business engagement activities at the University and showcases the commercial benefits of working with Aston to business, professional and public sector organisations.

Professor Levermore is chair of Medilink Midlands and vice chair for Nehemiah United Churches Housing Association (UCHA). In addition, Martin is also the founder and CEO of Medical Devices Technology International Ltd.

Raj Kandola

48 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Mark Smith

Mashkura Begum has over 20 years’ experience of working in the third/public sector, government regeneration programmes and international development. Her expertise is in community cohesion, local government devolution, housing, stakeholder analysis and business development.

Reshma S heikh is a chairperson, business leader, lawyer, public speaker and consultant born and raised in the Midlands. She was one of only a few, Muslim female business leaders in the UK within the Security Industry, for an eight-figure turnover business.

Raj said: “We received a number of outstanding entries for the ABCC awards and it’s been a privilege to chair the judging process.

“It was brilliant to see the breadth of organisations that had applied for the various awards and the extremely high calibre of applicants that have gone above and beyond in making a real difference across the region.

“We look forward to celebrating the work of the nominees on the awards night and champion their fantastic work.”

A limited number of platinum tables are available to purchase for groups of 10 at £1,500+VAT. Email ABCCawards@birmingham-chamber.com.

For sponsorship opportunities, contact ABCC director Anjum Khan on a.khan@birmingham-chamber.com

Mashkura Begum

Prof Martin Levermore

Reshma Sheikh

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ABCC ABCC Patrons

PREMIER+ PARTNERS

Asian businesses Hijinks: Award winners celebrate at the 2022 ceremony

Tireless dedication: Shani Dhanda

Shani rewarded with honorary doctorate

Shortlisted entrants have gone ‘above and beyond’ Thirty-three firms and individuals are vying for glory at the Asian Business Chamber of Commerce (ABCC) annual dinner and awards.

They will do battle on Saturday, 18 November, at The National Conference Centre in Solihull, who have also sponsored predinner drinks.

Guests will recognise and celebrate businesses and charities across nine categories with all winners from each being nominated for the overall business of the year award. The headline sponsors are Aston University, Doug Wright trading as McDonalds, and Lioncroft.

Raj Kandola, director of external affairs at Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce who also chaired the judges, said: “I'd like to congratulate all of the shortlisted applicants for not only going above and beyond in their roles but also playing a very important part in making our region a fantastic place to start and grow a business.”

Shortlist Outstanding Charity of the Year (Sponsored by OTD Ltd) Acorns Children's Hospice Birmingham Hospice FareShare Midlands Feedo Needo Outstanding Start-Up Business of the Year (Sponsored by DesiCity) Accounts & Advice Bureau LTD Find me a Solicitor MojoStack Limited Sporting Your Futures CIC UB Healthcare Ltd Outstanding Small Business of the Year (Sponsorship available) A-Team Academy Dr Aesthetica – Medical Aesthetic Clinic Euro Parking Services Ltd Primo Dialler

Outstanding Female Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by NatWest) Afia Begum - Alyf Accountants Faiza Naz - Burton Beauty & Aesthetics LTD, Accounts & Advice Bureau LTD Gazala Saleem - Muslim Matrimonial Coach Ltd Janani Prasad - MojoStack Limited Outstanding Male Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsorship available) Amin Miah - A-Team Academy Asam Khan - Life & Business coach / Business Consultant Sam Cinkir - Este Medical Group Waqas Baber - AGA Wealth Management Outstanding Professional Services of the Year (Sponsorship available) Alyf Accountants Dr Aesthetica – Medical Aesthetic Clinic Eternal Engagements Wahed Invest Ltd Outstanding Tech & Digital Business of the Year (Sponsored by South and City College Birmingham) Forward Carers CIC Muslim Matrimonial Coach Ltd runyourfleet Wahed Invest Ltd Outstanding Young Achiever of the Year (Sponsored by Staffordshire University) Baljinder Singh Athwal - West Midlands Police (WMP) Gurdeep Chima - Centre for Research in Ethnic Minority Entrepreneurship (CREME), Aston University Jashaan Gill - jheez.com Kiranjit Kaur Shergill - University of Warwick One business will also be crowned as the overall ABCC Business of the year, sponsored

by Shakespeare Martineau.

A few sponsorship opportunities and tickets are available. Contact a.khan@birminghamchamber.com for more information.

Shani Dhanda has been conferred with an Honorary Doctorate of Social Sciences by her university in recognition of her tireless dedication to fostering inclusivity and accessibility, particularly for individuals with disabilities.

The University of Wolverhampton bestows honorary awards on individuals who have made exceptional contributions to their respective fields.

Shani Dhanda, also a broadcaster, has been acknowledged as a leading voice in the disability inclusion movement. She was also recognised as a BBC 100 Women Laureate in 2020.

Shani's advocacy spans multiple fronts as she endeavours to empower businesses and brands to create more inclusive and accessible environments, with a particular focus on individuals with disabilities. Her intersectional activism, as a South Asian woman who herself experiences disability, drives her commitment to global social equity through entrepreneurial initiatives.

Shani is the visionary behind initiatives such as Diversability, the Asian Woman Festival, and the Asian Disability Network, all aimed at advancing inclusivity and awareness.

In addition to her advocacy work, she serves as a prominent broadcaster on daytime television programs, educating and inspiring diverse audiences with her wealth of knowledge and experience. Accumulating more than 25 honours and awards, has solidified her reputation as a trailblazer.

Shani said: "I am deeply honoured to receive this honorary doctorate from the University of Wolverhampton, an institution that has not only played a pivotal role in shaping my educational journey but has also significantly contributed to my personal growth, professional achievements, and lifelong learning.

“The university's commitment to Inclusion, Innovation and Impact closely aligns with my own values. This recognition underscores our shared vision of education as a potent catalyst for change, working toward a world that is genuinely inclusive and accessible for all."

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CANNOCK CHASE CHASE CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Guidance: Jonathan Price

Expert jobs advice for A-Level students A new jobs and careers website has been launched by the Staffordshire County Council for the first time, helping A-level students who have just received their results.

The Staffordshire jobs and careers website will have jobs, training opportunities and access to free 121 support from experts.

Staffordshire County Council cabinet member for education Jonathan Price said: “I want to congratulate everyone who received their A-Level results, no matter what those results are. It is a testament to the hard work thousands of students have put in over the last two years, and every of them should be proud of their achievements.

“Many will know the next step that they will be taking, but for those who are unsure, our Staffordshire Jobs and Careers website has all of the information and guidance to help them explore and take their next step – whether that’s training, different forms of study including degree-level apprenticeships, or the world of work.”

And, a leading Staffordshire businessman has some words of advice for those who did not get the results they expected.

Jason Davies runs Castletown Distillery in Newcastle-under-Lyme, after previously being a teacher. Jason said: “If you didn’t get the A-Level results you wanted, there’s no need to panic. I left school with zero qualifications. I did a vocational course and spent 20 years in that profession.

“I went to university in my 30s and became a teacher—I taught GCSE and ALevels for 10 years and now I run my own business. I don’t know what I’ll be doing for my fourth career, but I’m not worried, and neither should you be. Everyone has the ability to succeed no matter what their results.”

For more information, advice and guidance, visit the Staffordshire Jobs and Careers website or contact the experts at Staffordshire Jobs and Careers on StaffsJobsandCareers@staffordshire.gov.uk

50 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Warning issued after rise in rogue traders Staffordshire County Council’s Trading Standards service has issued a warning about the growing menace of rogue traders and cowboy builders.

The council have dealt with 140 reports since the start of the year. The warning follows reports of traders operating in the Cannock, Newcastle and Stafford areas over the summer months, offering building and gardening work.

Usually, rogue traders will knock on people’s doors and offer to do work on the spot. The work is either poor quality or overpriced and sometimes never done, despite people paying more than the cost of a reputable trader.

They tend to target vulnerable individuals, the elderly, and those who may be less familiar with the home improvement process, leaving them financially exploited and often with unsafe and unsatisfactory work completed.

Victoria Wilson is responsible for Trading Standards at Staffordshire County Council and expressed her concerns about the increasing number of reported cases involving rogue traders.

She said: "We are seeing a rise in complaints related to unscrupulous traders preying on innocent homeowners and are working closely with the police to stop it.

“It’s really important to remain vigilant and take precautions when hiring tradespeople for home projects.”

Be vigilant: Victoria Wilson

Officers have offered the following tips to people thinking about having work carried out: • Do your research: always research the background and reputation of the trader or builder before engaging their services • Get multiple quotes • Ask for references • Ask for written agreements • Avoid cash payments • Trust your instincts: if something feels too good to be true or if a trader exerts undue pressure on you to make hasty decisions, step back and reassess the situation.

People can report rogue traders to Trading Standards on 01785 330356

26.99 miles in nine hours 36 minutes: Trekkers are welcomed home

Night trek funds vital work TechCare’s moonlight marathon challenge proved to be a testament to the team’s perseverance and compassion, raising £1,175 for South Staffordshire Network for Mental Health.

The group trekked through Cannock Chase in an inspiring challenge, originally predicted to cover the daunting 26-mile distance in 12 hours, exceeding all expectations.

The team pushed to cross the finish line in an impressive 9 hours and 36 minutes, and added a little extra distance onto the route, hitting 26.99 miles at the finish line.

With a total of £1,175 raised so far, the financial support generated will make a noticeable difference in the lives of those facing mental health challenges in South Staffordshire.

These contributions translate into real-world support where a £50 donation can pave the way for a comprehensive wellbeing self-help plan for an individual in need. A sum of £25 funds a single training session for dedicated volunteers. A £10 donation facilitates a month's worth of crucial mobile phone support for vulnerable individuals, fostering a lifeline of connection and assistance.

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BURTON & DISTRICT BURTON & DISTRICT CHAMBER PATRONS

Contact: Richard Brooks T: 07796 242029

Awards lunch will Ginho commits to celebrate local success intelligent partnership Burton upon Trent-based Ginho has signed a contract with local business intelligence specialists Marshall Mahoney.

The first step of the partnership will be for Ginho to integrate Marshall Mahoney’s Data Hub product, which will bring cutting-edge technology to the company’s financial reporting.

Data Hub will consolidate and streamline statistics from multiple sources - including Sage - and legacy systems such as CRM (customer relationship management).

As a cloud-based system, it is serverless, and therefore avoids both risks from technological failure and the need for any upfront infrastructure.

Data Hub also brings maximum levels of compliance on an international basis and state-of-the-art cybersecurity.

Shaun Gray, managing director of Ginho, said: “It’s

fantastic that we have found a local company to support with Ginho’s business intelligence development.

“With Data Hub streamlining our business reporting we will continue to offer the most efficient and cost-effective solutions for our customers.”

Marshall Mahoney, director James Marshall, added: “ Ginho

epitomises the type of business that we can help to make huge improvements in terms of efficiency – a global organisation with multiple sites and vast numbers of product lines.

“Our automated business intelligence platform can save our customers life-changing amounts of time.”

Partners (left to right): Tim Mahoney, technology consultant CTO at Marshall Mahoney; WeiWei, European financial controller at Ginho; James Marshall, data and business consultant CMO at Marshall Mahoney and Shaun Gray, European managing director at Ginho

BACT hosts disability day The Burton Albion Community Trust (BACT), elected charity of the Burton & District Chamber of Commerce, hosted its first disability events day.

It consisted of an inaugural disability football tournament, as well as a disability roadshow, showcasing all of the disability work that Burton Albion Community Trust (BACT) provides.

Challenge: Sighted people take part in a football match for the blind

Thirty-one teams from 10 clubs including Stoke City, Tamworth, Wolves, Royal Wirley, Bradford City, Cannock, Port Vale, Stourbridge and Accrington Stanley took part in three age categories.

To compliment the Pan Disability Football Tournament, Burton Albion Community Trust delivered a Health and Wellbeing roadshow in partnership with the Staffordshire and Stoke NHS Integrated Care Board.

The aim of the event was to showcase the health and social care partner organisations and charities in East Staffordshire available to support individuals and families with learning disabilities and autism.

BACT head of community Will Evans said: “The day has been a huge success and I’m immensely proud of what has been achieved here.

“The effort put in by everyone to make this event happen shows how deeply they all care about making a difference in our communities.”

For information on BACT’s disability provision, contact Charles.sketchley@burtonalbionct.org

Burton & District Chamber of Commerce will celebrate business success at a lunch at The Pirelli Stadium on Tuesday, 21 November.

It is an opportunity to celebrate business success, network with local organisations and enjoy light entertainment over a threecourse meal.

Three awards will be up for grabs at the event including; • Burton’s Hidden Gem • Burton’s Rising Star • Burton & District Chamber President’s Awards Shaun Gray, president of the Burton & District Chamber of Commerce and European managing director of Ginho, said: “Our must-attend annual celebration lunch is going to be a great event which I’m very proud to be hosting for the second year running.

“Burton continues be a strong hub for doing business, and as a town we really do have much to be proud of.

“We’ll again be recognising individuals and businesses for going above and beyond – I’d encourage everyone to apply for one of our awards which are now open to enter.

“The lunch is open to all, and I’d encourage non-members to come along and meet us to find out what they can get out of being part of the Chamber.”

Head of Burton Chamber of Commerce and Cannock Chamber of Commerce Richard Brooks said: “I am honoured to be involved in the Burton and District Chamber of Commerce's celebratory lunch and extend an invite for all to attend.

“This is a wonderful opportunity to recognise the achievements of local Burton business, and to celebrate the strength of our close-knit community.

“I am a strong believer in the power of SME businesses to create jobs and drive economic growth, so we welcome nominations from members and nonmembers of the Chamber for our two new award categories.”

Award applications for Burton’s Hidden Gem and Burton’s Rising Star will open on Wednesday, 6 October.

Sponsorship opportunities are still available for the event. Contact Richard Brooks on r.books@birminghamchamber.com for more sponsorship information.

Application and sponsorship details along with ticket pricing information is available at www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com

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LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH LICHFIELD & TAMWORTH CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Chris Brewerton T: 0845 6036650

Share your views on Lichfield strategy Lichfield District Council is seeking views on a new draft strategy to deliver a shared vision for the district between now and 2050.

Building on the feedback received in last year’s ‘TogetherWe Will’ survey, which attracted more than 7,000 public responses, the vision has been shaped for making the district’s communities confident, prosperous, active and green.

The council says its ambition is for Lichfield to become a benchmark for the entire UK, a place against which others are measured and a place to be emulated.

Temptations energy: The Just My Imagination cast

It is calling for further input from residents, businesses, partners, and community organisations before the strategy can be agreed.

The leader of Lichfield District Council, Councillor Doug Pullen, said: “We have ambitious plans for the district and ‘TogetherWe Will’ achieve them. “‘TogetherWe Will’ isn't just a catchphrase – it's our rallying call for action. We’re aiming high: envisioning a Lichfield District that's more confident, more prosperous, more active, and greener by 2050 and together I know we can achieve it.

Ambitious plans: Councillor Doug Pullen

“Feedback will help us to prioritise and focus our spending, so it is vital that we get as many people as possible to contribute.”

The draft strategy can be seen on the council's website until 7 October.

Festival welcomes the return of chamber music

Lichfield Garrick has launched a free youth membership scheme to engage young people in the world of theatre.

Young Garrick is designed exclusively for those aged 14 to 25 who are looking to dive into the world of drama, creativity and behind-the-scenes magic.

Members will enjoy a host of benefits, including discounted theatre tickets, workshops led by theatre professionals, behind-the-scenes access and the opportunity for budding actors and actresses to audition for in-house shows.

Daniel Buckroyd, artistic director and CEO at Lichfield Garrick Theatre, said: “Our Young Garrick membership is all about celebrating the energy and creativity of young people.

We're excited to provide an immersive and engaging experience that not only entertains but also nurtures the next generation of theatre enthusiasts and professionals.”

As part of that programme, Just My Imagination, a celebration of the music of the Temptations, features at the Garrick for one night only on Sunday, 15 October.

The Motown legends were named by Billboard Magazine as “The Number 1 Group in the History of Rhythm and Blues”.

Lichfield Festival’s Chamber Music Weekend returns to the city from 5 to 8 October with a programme of top quality classical music-making.

There are international stars and talented young artists, music spanning the Baroque to the present day, and performances featuring harp, saxophone, piano and string quartet to name but a few.

Guest artists include the renowned Carducci Quartet who play Dvořák’s ‘American’ Quartet in a concert of string quartet favourites; accordion player and BBC Radio 3 New Generation Artist, Ryan Corbett; and star oboist Nicholas Daniel, who closes the weekend with the Britten Oboe Quartet that he founded with his award-winning Britten Sinfonia colleagues.

There will also be performances by Joo Yeon Sir – a regular festival favourite – in virtuoso violin music with pianist Irina Andrievsky; Salvador Sanchez whose Spanishflavoured programme features the complete Granados Goyescas.

And there is the intriguing combination of popular saxophonist Huw Wiggin and harpist Oliver Wass, a former Festival Young Artist, who play Bach, Ravel and de Falla.

There are recitals by harpist Christopher Clarke and pianist Ashley Wass, director of music at the Yehudi Menuhin School.

This series of intimate concerts centres around the magnificent setting of The Hub at St Mary’s in the centre of Lichfield, with Wade Street Church also hosting Ryan Corbett on Friday 6 October.

Damian Thantrey, Lichfield Festival director, said: "Already in its third year, we’re delighted that our Chamber Weekend has become a permanent fixture in the festival’s annual programme.

“There’s a wonderful breadth to this year’s weekend and, once again, we get the chance both to promote young artists at the start of their careers, and to welcome established world-class musicians to venues right in the heart of the city."

Just My Imagination will be opening its UK tour at Lichfield Garrick Theatre and tickets are available at www.lichfieldgarrick.com

Lichfield Chamber Music Weekend runs from 5 to 8 October, 2023. To find out more, call 01543 306271.

Theatre launches youth membership scheme

52 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

Festival favourite: Joo Yeon Sir

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ROYAL SUTTON COLDFIELD CHARITY OF THE YEAR

Contact: Chris Brewerton T: 0845 6036650

Chamber welcomes its new president A businessman and customer experience expert who grew up in the town has become the new president of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce.

Naeem Arif, a director at United Carpets and management consultant, was confirmed as successor to Ark Media chief executive Phil Arkinstall at the Chamber’s annual general meeting at The Townhouse.

Having grown up in Sutton Coldfield, Mr Arif attended Bishop Vesey’s Grammar School and also represented the Royal Town’s hockey and cricket clubs – becoming chairman of the latter in 2008.

Addressing the annual meeting, Mr Arif vowed to use his two-year term as president to

Handover (left to right): Head of the Royal Sutton Chamber Chris Brewerton, Kate Curry, Naeem Arif, Gary Phelps and Phil Arkinstall

encourage collaboration and drive more trade within the town, under the moniker of ‘Team Sutton’.

He said: “We are a thriving and dynamic region which is much more than just the town centre. We have Boldmere, Mere Green, Peddimore, Walmley, Four Oaks, Wylde Green, Reddicap, Rouhgley, Trinity, Vesey, Minworth – each contributing to our local economy and the attractiveness of people wanting to live here and do business with us. We will always promote all the local businesses in our region, giving them support wherever we can, and

we will push this narrative as much as possible.

“When we buy local, we aren't just investing in products and services; we are investing in our neighbours, friends, and families. We are investing in the future of everyone in Sutton Coldfield.”

Meanwhile, Kate Curry, owner and director of Mere Green-based creative design agency The Curry Design Studio, has been confirmed as a vice-president of the Royal Sutton Coldfield Chamber. She joins existing vice-president, communications expert and former newspaper editor Gary Phelps.

Agency is newest board member at BMet academy Sutton Coldfield-headquartered creative agency WAA Chosen has joined the board of the Greater Birmingham Professional Services Academy (GBPSA), part of BMet College.

Head of talent at WAA Chosen Jack Trimble becomes a member with immediate effect.

WAA Chosen is one of the Midlands’ leading creative and marketing agencies.

By supporting GBPSA it will be able to offer insight and practical support to students considering a career in the marketing and communications sector.

Valuable contributor: Jack Trimble

This important and exciting sector of professional services can be overlooked by young people so for students at GBPSA to have access to this world via engagement with one of the country’s most successful marketing agencies will be transformative.

Suzie Branch-Haddow, vice principal for external development at BMet and founding director of GBPSA, said: “We are delighted to welcome WAA Chosen to the Board.

“Jack will be a valuable contributor to our work going forward, not only in offering expertise and knowledge about the opportunities that exist in marketing and communications but our wider academy growth strategy as we embark on our second decade.”

Jack said: “WAA Chosen is really pleased to have partnered with GBPSA. As a business we have always put inclusion at the heart of everything we do.

“I personally believe that companies in whatever sector should represent the society in which they exist and operate and that is not always the case in the marketing sector.

“I join the Board of GBPSA at an exciting time and I hope I can play a part in its future success.”

New recruits: Alex Smith and Ewan Lockwood

The PLOTT thickens as new staff join team Brand and web agency PLOTT has welcomed two new team members in design and web development.

The new appointments are Alex Smith and Ewan Lockwood as graphic designer and front-end web developer respectively.

The agency says this growth is a direct result of consecutive successful years, driven by exceptional creative output and longlasting client relationships.

Creative director Richard Plotnek said: “The addition of new creative minds is always a boon to overall creativity.

“Fresh ideas challenge and help us, as pushing the boundaries generates bold new takes, and surprising new directions for our art.

“It’s an exciting addition, I can’t wait to see what our new creatives bring to the table.”

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

Huge surge in awards entries...

There was a massive increase in the number of entries for the Solihull Chamber of Commerce annual dinner and awards this month.

The event takes place at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole on Friday, 20 October, and judges received a 30 per cent increase in the number of applicants for shortlisting.

Samantha Frampton, head of Solihull Chamber of Commerce, said: “I am absolutely thrilled with the response we have had this year from Solihull businesses entering the Solihull awards and it is fantastic to see an increase of 30 per cent in applications.

“It has been a tough but enjoyable job for the judges who were impressed by the calibre of the applications.”

The shortlist for this year’s 11 awards categories is: Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Change & Sustainability Birmingham Business Park Enzen Kindred CSR Phoebus Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Contribution to Community Harper Fox Partners Menopause Knowledge CIC Prime Accountants Group SJ Haper Projects Ltd t/a SH Projects Solihull Academy Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Customer Services Belle Diva Handelsbanken Leap IT Ltd Pioneer Talent Ltd

Röhlig UK Ltd The Recruitment Duo Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Hospitality & Retail Achill Guest House and Spa KIBOU Japanese Kitchen & Bar Monica's Bakes Touchwood Solihull Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Professional Services- sponsored by The HR Dept Solihull Harper Fox Partners Prime Accountants Group Shakespeare Martineau Sydney Mitchell LLP The Wilkes Partnership LLP Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Sales, Marketing & Communication Cybercy Lindsay Woodward Marketing Touchwood Solihull UB Healthcare Ltd Visit Knowle Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Technology & Innovation Digital Innovators Evac+Chair International NEC Group runyourfleet Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Third Sector Birmingham & Solihull Women’s Aid Carers Trust Solihull Sport 4 Life UK St Basils

Solihull’s Award for Excellence in Training, Education & Development in People- sponsored by runyourfleet Central Schools Trust Evac+Chair International North Star School Phoebus Solihull College & University Centre Solihull’s Outstanding Start-Up, Enterprise and Entrepreneurship CAPE Coaching and Development Monica's Bakes The Recruitment Duo UB Healthcare Ltd Solihull’s Rising Star & Future Leader- sponsored

by Touchwood Solihull Emma-Louise Hewitt from Sydney Mitchell LLP Hayley Foulsham from Davisons Law Jordan Murphy from Solihull Moors Foundation Rachel Arnold from Solihull College & University Centre Rory Pickin from Röhlig UK Ltd Wesley Foster from Eleven Views One business will also be crowned Solihull’s Business of the Year, sponsored by Solihull Metropolitan Borough Council.

The shortlist judging took place at Solihull member Brew Twenty Three, and the judges were Jonathan Horsfall, Mike Dale, Rob Palmer, Ashley Kerr, Sapreena Kumari and Anna Smith. Helen Bates, chief financial officer at the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce, was chair.

For more information visit the GBCC events calendar, or email solihullawards@birminghamchamber.com

Longstanding family firm welcomes MP Saqib Bhatti, MP for Meriden, visited The Barn at Berryfields in Solihull to discuss the business’ history and their plans for the future with director Tom Barber.

Henrietta Brealey, CEO of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC), and Samantha Frampton, head of the Solihull Chamber of Commerce (SCC) joined the MP. Joint directors and founders Tom, Joe and Will Barber are the fourth generation of their family at Berryfields, having diversified over the last 20 years into retail, hospitality and leisure. The brothers are also opening a 34-bedroom hotel next year, attracting visitors to the nearby NEC and Birmingham airport and train station.

Saqib and Tom discussed how a reduction in VAT to 10 per cent for the leisure industry, bringing them in line with our European counterparts in France, Italy and Spain, would give the industry a springboard for growth, reinvestment in teams and infrastructure.

It would also, Tom explained, allow them to 54 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

pass on savings to customers which would drive footfall and spend and ultimately support businesses, their local economy and the UK as a whole.

They also discussed how grant funding for businesses looking to invest in infrastructure

Plans for the future: (left to right): Samantha Frampton, Tom Barber, Saqib Bhatti MBE and Henrietta Brealey

would be well received as it would stimulate growth and job creation and ensure that businesses are expanding with sustainability at the forefront of their minds. Without grant funding some projects would not be able to include some “nice to have” green technologies, it was explained.

Tom added: “We thoroughly enjoyed welcoming Saqib to our fourth-generation family business to talk about our fantastic team, award winning retail, hospitality and events spaces and exciting new projects such as our hotel, opening in 2024.

“It was a privilege to discuss opportunities and challenges faced by business on a local and national scale and for us to demonstrate how working with local suppliers and supporting our local economy has been a core part of our business’s sustainable growth and development.

We greatly appreciate Saqib’s time and the Greater Birmingham Chamber of Commerce for arranging this valuable visit.”

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SOLIHULL SOLIHULL CHAMBER PATRONS

Unlocking the future of Solihull town centre A Solihull town centre roundtable, chaired by the leader of the Council, Ian Courts, focused on unlocking the centre’s full future potential and making it even more attractive for visitors.

The roundtable included leaders from Solihull Chamber of Commerce, Solihull Business Improvement District (BID), Touchwood and Solihull College & University Centre and discussed key ambitions and priorities for the town centre over the short, medium and long term.

The Council’s Town Centre Masterplan takes a wide view of upcoming developments and investment opportunities in housing, leisure, business and culture. Developed in conversation with a range of key stakeholders, the Masterplan

provides a blueprint for investment and phased development over the next 15 years.

Since adopting it last year, the council has also developed a public realm strategy which provides design principles to support future development.

Steps have also been taken in developing Solihull Station, with an approved early concept design showing a modern Integrated Transport Hub, serving as a new gateway into the town centre.

The next milestone is expected when the council will announce the appointment of a development partner to deliver a new vision for Mell Square, which will include a new diverse mixed-use space, offering the optimal balance of residential, leisure and commercial use.

Looking to the future: Councillor Ian Courts

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FUTURE FACES FUTURE FACES CHAMBER PATRONS Contact: Sophie Poduval-Morrell T: 0121 274 3276

Embrace diversity and make a positive impact

Good business sense: Rebekah Taitt

October is Black History Month, which is not just a matter of social responsibility but also makes good business sense, says Rebekah Taitt, regional development director of the Midlands at Lloyds. In this Q&A, she explains why.

Why is Black History Month important?

Black History Month is a time to celebrate, recognise and acknowledge the continuous achievements and contributions of Black people in the UK and around the world.

Now more than ever it is important that we take on board any lessons learnt and focus on what actions need to be happening to improve the future.

What does it mean to Rebekah?

It’s an opportunity for me to learn and appreciate the rich history, culture and contributions of Black individuals and communities. A bridge between the past and the future, helping to ensure that the lessons, achievements, and challenges of Black history continue to shape a more inclusive and equitable world for generations to come and reflecting on the role I can play in supporting this.

Why should businesses recognise the importance?

Recognising the importance of Black History Month is not just a matter of social responsibility but also makes good business sense. It can lead to a more inclusive, innovative and socially conscious workplace, ultimately benefiting both the company, employees and its wider stakeholder communities.

Education opportunity Provide a platform for educating employees about the history and cultural significance of Black communities. This can help reduce ignorance, stereotypes and problematic behaviours that may negatively impact people within the workplace.

Employee engagement Honouring Black history as an organisation can boost employee morale and engagement sending a message that the company values and respects 56 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

the contribution of its Black employees. It fosters a sense of belonging among employees and can lead to a more inclusive positive work environment. You are also more likely to attract a wider pool of talent and retain employees from diverse backgrounds. This can lead to improved innovation and problem solving within the organisation.

Community engagement It can also be a way for businesses to demonstrate social responsibility and commitment to making a positive impact.

Businesses that embrace diversity and inclusion are better positioned for long term success. They can tap into a broader range of perspectives and adapt to changing customer demographics.

New Members Adam Finlay Close Brothers Asset Management Magdalena Karlikowska Cytecom Clare Genner Liquid Public Relations Limited Georgia Turvey Liquid Public Relations Limited Vanessa Clark Liquid Public Relations Limited Kelly Downes mac Birmingham Alena Dudrah MFG Solicitors Ioana Axinte ONE Learning App Kieran Allen Prime Accountants Group Paulius Mitrikas Radisson Blu Hotel Birmingham Natalie Scarlett Tech Rootz Christie Nelson The Wilkes Partnership Joel Blake The Wilkes Partnership Beverley Garner Wardell Armstrong LLP Lili Alldrick Wardell Armstrong LLP

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FUTURE FACES

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

Your chance to join mentor scheme Future Faces are launching their third cohort of their mentoring scheme with a recruitment event at leading international audit, tax and advisory firm Mazars.

It will take place on Thursday, 5 October, from 17:30 to 19:30 and will be an opportunity for individuals of all backgrounds to come together and embark on a transformative journey of mentorship.

To book onto the event, scan the left QR code.

Whether delegates are eager to share expertise as a mentor or seeking guidance and support as a mentee, the event acts as a gateway to personal and professional development.

‘We’re able to run the mentoring scheme thanks to business leaders who give up their time to mentor’

“The feedback we’ve had from previous mentees has shown that having an external professional to guide you is an invaluable experience and helps you get ahead in the early stages of your career.

“We’re able to run the mentoring scheme thanks to business leaders who give up their time to mentor so if your company is looking to give back and support the next generation of young professionals then I encourage you to sign up.”

For the mentors, the scheme will be an opportunity for them to give back to the Birmingham business community, as well as develop their own skills and share their business insights and knowledge.

The mentors involved in the scheme will have a wealth of experience in sectors such as finance, sales and marketing, start-up and entrepreneurship, education, technology and innovation, and retail, to name but a few.

Applications for the third cohort are now open and will close on 17 October. To fill out an application form, scan the right QR code.

The third launch of the Future Faces Mentoring Scheme comes on the back of two successful schemes, with the first cohort meeting in October 2022 and the second in May 2023.

The mentoring scheme sub-committee is currently chaired by Tom Bower, with vice-chair Freya Dearman and Molly Crampton, Jamie Gibson, Leon Thomas and Elizabeth Watt.

Tom, who works for Woods Hardwick, said: “We’ve now run two successful cohorts for the Future Faces mentoring scheme and it’s a great opportunity for members to professionally develop outside their day-today role with mentors from across the region.

Podcast explores the powers of mentorship A mentor and mentee relationship can make a huge difference to the career path of a young professional, which can be seen in the prime examples of Tara Attfield-Tomes and Georgie Butler.

Tara, founder of PR agency EAST VILLAGE., and Georgie, associate director at Blackberry Events, spoke to Future Faces manager Sophie Poduval-Morrell on the latest episode of Future Faces: The Young Professionals Podcast about their mentor scheme experience and relationship, and how it has benefited both of their careers.

Tara has led a successful career in PR and Communications, from starting off in a placem ent year job at her dream brand Stella McCartney where she fell in love with PR, to founding her own PR agency, EAST VILLAGE. Georgie describes her career path as ‘a little less linear’ to Tara’s, as she started off studying forensic science at university to completely

Mentor talk (left to right): Sophie Poduval-Morrell, Tara Attfield-Tomes and Georgie Butler

changing her career path to take over her family-run business, Blackberry Events.

Tara and Georgie talk about the mentor scheme process from both a mentor and mentee point of view, and the key things that a mentee should consider when meeting with their mentor each time. They also provide an insight into their career paths and how they got to their respective stages in their work today.

After two very successful cohorts of the Future Faces Mentor Scheme in October 2022 and May

2023, the third mentor scheme cohort is being launched with a social at Mazars on Thursday, 5 October.

The podcast episode is available to listen to from Tuesday, 10 October. Scan the QR code to access all previous episodes.

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CHAMBER EVENTS

Join the events October Fest…

The Greater Birmingham Business Expo at Edgbaston Cricket Stadium is one of the highlights of another packed programme of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce (GBCC) events during October. The ever-popular Expo will again draw huge attention from across the region.

In a diverse list of events for the month, another big attraction will be at Birmingham Council House when West Midlands businesses will be invited to contact with counterparts from Vietnam to drive interactive business.

And among the divisions, one of the highlights will be Solihull Chamber’s annual dinner and awards at the Hilton Birmingham Metropole.

For further information and to book a place, visit: www.greaterbirminghamchambers.com/networking-events

Business At Breakfast Burton, Cannock And Lichfield & Tamworth Date: 4 October 2023 Time: 7:30 – 9:30 Venue: National Memorial Arboretum Division: Burton & District Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: free Non-members: Free

Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: The Assay Studios Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Networking & Diwali Celebration 2023 Date: 25 October 2023 Time: 17:30 – 21:30 Venue: Holiday Inn Birmingham City Centre Division: ABCC Member Price: Free Future Faces Members: £15.00+ VAT Non-Member Price: £60.00+ VAT

Greater Birmingham Business Expo 2023 Date: 6 October 2023 Time: 9:00– 15:00 Venue: Edgbaston Cricket Stadium Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: free Non-members: Free Connecting Vietnam And The West Midlands Date: 10 October 2023 Time: 10:00 – 14:00 Venue: Council House Victoria Square Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: Free Speed Networking Sutton Coldfield Date: 11 October 2023 Time: 8:30 – 10:30 Venue: TBC Division: Sutton Coldfield Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: £15+ VAT Non-members: £20 + VAT Good Business Forum Date: 12 October 2023 Time: 15:00 – 17:00 Venue: WSP, The Mailbox Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: £15+ VAT Digital Transformation Decoded Date: 17 October 2023 Time: 9:30 – 11:30 Venue: HSBC UK, Centenary Square Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: Free

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Dancers lead the celebrations during this last month’s Future Faces Birmingham Young Professional of the Year ceremony

1813 Club & Premier Members Social Networking Date: 17 October 2023 Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: TBC Division: GBCC Cost: Members: Free Networking Lunch Burton & District Date: 18 October 2023 Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: Burton-On-Trent Golf Club Division: Burton & District Cost: Free Member Price: Free Future Faces Members: £15.00+VAT Non-Member Price: £50.00+ VAT Future Faces Social Networking Cannock Chase Date: 19 October 2023 Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: Akorn KIA Division: Cannock Cost: Members: Free Future Faces Members: Free

Solihull Annual Dinner & Awards 2023 Date: 20 October 2023 Time: 18:00 – 23:00 Venue: Hilton Birmingham Metropole Division: Solihull Cost: Member Price: £120.00 + VAT Future Faces Members: £120.00+ VAT Non-Member Price: £130.00+ VAT Lichfield & Tamworth Annual General Meeting Date: 24 October 2023 Time: 12:00 – 14:00 Venue: TBC Division: Lichfield & Tamworth Cost: Free Member Price: Free Future Faces Members: Free Non-Member Price Free Premier Member Networking Evening Date: 24 October 2023

Birmingham Economic Review 2023 Date: 26 October 2023 Time: 9:00 – 11:00 Venue: The Exchange Division: GBCC Cost: Free Member Price: Free Future Faces Members: Free Non-Member Price: Free Social Networking Sutton Coldfield Date: 26 October 2023 Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: TBC Division: Sutton Coldfield Member Price: Free Future Faces Members: £15.00+ VAT Non-Member Price: £50.00+ VAT Future Faces Charity Quiz 2023 Date: 26 October 2023 Time: 17:30 – 19:30 Venue: The Button Factory Division: Future Faces Future Faces Members: Free Business At Breakfast - Burton & District Date: 27 October 2023 Time: 7:30 – 9:30 Venue: The Mulberry Bistro Division: Burton & District Member Price: Free Future Faces Members: £15.00+ VAT Non-Member Price: £50.00+ VAT

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CHAMBER TRAINING

Training courses The Chamber’s International team has a portfolio of documentation training, aimed at those who are exporting goods to Europe and all over the world. The majority of the courses are British Chamber of Commerce (BCC) accredited and cover everything from customs procedures to Incoterms.

For more information, contact training@birmingham-chamber.com Import Procedures including Inward Processing and Outward Processing (BCC accredited) Date: 4 October 2023 Time: 9:30 – 15.30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services Cost: Members: £295 + VAT Non-members: £345 + VAT The attendee will gain an understanding of all the applicable areas of the import process. The day will explore supplier, country, and payment risk as well as duty payments and many more topics.

Transit for Agents Date: 12 October 2023 Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training in collaboration with Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Cost: Members: £240 + VAT Non-members: £320 + VAT The course is designed for freight forwarders, customs brokers, hauliers, and logistics providers moving goods that require transit documentation.

It is also designed for those new to submitting a transit declaration and wanting to understand the New Computerised Transit System.

Transit for Exporters and Traders Date: 25 October 2023 Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training in collaboration with Thames Valley Chamber of Commerce Cost: Members: £240 + VAT Non-members: £320 + VAT The course was designed for those regular exporters, international traders, and those utilising Customs special procedures when shipping products internationally across the channel.

With this training you will gain the valuable knowledge required to coordinate with your logistics providers and ensure compliance.

Introduction to Customs Declarations in CDS Date: 26 October 2023 Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Malin Geanovu Cost: Members: £280 + VAT Non-members: £340 + VAT Our training day will highlight what you need to know to be able to accurately complete a simple Customs declaration.

You will learn about how Customs regimes operate and spend time on the completion of a declaration on CDS. Combined Import and export – a detailed overview Date: 15 November 2023 Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services

Cost:

Members: £250 + VAT Non-members: £310 + VAT Our specialised full-day course provides a detailed overview of both import and export, all elements that are involved and a summary of what paperwork is needed to be able to complete procedures in a smooth manner.

Incoterms 2020 (BCC accredited) Date: 21 November 2023 Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services Cost: Members: £180 + VAT Non-members: £240 + VAT This course looks at each Incoterm in detail and explains what each term ‘does’ and ‘doesn’t do’. The half-day session will explore whether your current term is correct for your exports and provide details of how to decide on which term to use and when.

Understanding Export and Export Documentation (BCC Accredited) Date: 22 November 2023 Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services Cost: Members: £295 + VAT Non-members: £345 + VAT Attendees of this course will see an overview of the end-to-end export process and gain an in depth understanding of the requirements of export documentation, including knowledge on shipping, the correct way to use a freight forwarder and couriers.

Understanding Commodity Codes (BCC Accredited) Date: 28 November 2023 Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: David Reader Cost: Members: £180 + VAT Non-members: £240 + VAT This course would be suitable for those working in an export or import environment and are interested in developing their understanding on what commodity codes are, what they mean and how to determine the correct code for their product.

Methods of Payment (BCC accredited) Date: 6 December 2023 Time: 9:30 – 12:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: David Reader Cost: Members: £180 + VAT Non-members: £240 + VAT The course will provide an overview of all methods of payment available to exporters when they are trading internationally including the risks and benefits involved of each. The day will explore the most suitable options for different potential scenarios and the subsequent paperwork involved in each method.

Documentary Letters of Credit (BCC accredited) Date: 6 December 2023 Time: 13:30 – 16:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: David Reader Cost: Members: £180 + VAT Non-members: £240 + VAT

This course is suitable for those working in international trade who are involved in the management and presentation of letters of credit or who would like to increase their knowledge on the process.

Delegates who are looking to learn about letters of credit in more detail as well as the alternative options to a letter of credit will benefit from this course.

Introduction to Customs Declarations in CDS Date: 6 December 2023 Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Malin Geanovu Cost: Members: £280 + VAT Non-members: £340 + VAT Our training day will highlight what you need to know to be able to accurately complete a simple Customs declaration.

You will learn about how Customs regimes operate and spend time on the completion of a declaration on CDS. Customs Procedures & Documentation (BCC accredited) Date: 12 December 2023 Time: 9:30 – 15:30 Venue: Online remote training Trainer: Exporter Services Cost: Members: £295 + VAT Non-members: £345 + VAT This course would be suitable to those working in an export environment who wish to further develop their understanding on the procedures of Customs compliance. The day will look at Customs procedures in depth along with the documentation process for audit.

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

Navigating the future of work: strategies for a remote and hybrid workforce In an ever-evolving digital landscape, the workplace is undergoing a transformation like never before. With the rise of artificial intelligence (AI), the emergence of Generation Z employees, and the increasing demand for remote and flexible work options, the future of work is taking shape. Davina Schonle (pictured), founder of S2C Virtual Reality, explores how these factors intersect and provide strategies for fostering a balanced, productive, and adaptable workforce.

The digital AI revolution AI and automation have become integral parts of the modern workplace, streamlining processes, and augmenting productivity. While these technologies promise efficiency gains, they also bring about concerns related to job displacement. For employees, particularly those entering the workforce, developing a tech-savvy mindset is crucial. Gen Z employees, who have grown up in a digital world, often possess

innate tech skills. However, organizations should also offer training and development programs to empower their workforce to thrive in the digital age.

Remote and hybrid work models The COVID-19 pandemic accelerated the adoption of remote work, and this trend is likely to continue. Employees now have the flexibility to choose between

working from home, the office, or a blend of both. This shift requires adaptability and self-discipline. To make the most of remote and hybrid work models: • Effective time management: Establish clear work hours, create a dedicated workspace, and stick to a daily routine to maintain work-life boundaries.

‘The future of work is an exciting yet challenging landscape, where AI, Gen Z employees, remote work, and leadership intersect’

• Communication skills: Gen Z employees, raised on digital communication, can excel in this October 2023 CHAMBERLINK 61

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

area. However, fostering clear and efficient virtual communication within teams remains crucial.

• Leverage technology: Embrace digital tools for project management, collaboration, and communication to enhance productivity.

Work-life balance The boundaries between work and personal life have become increasingly blurred in the remote work era. Gen Z, known for valuing a healthy work-life balance, can set an example by: • Prioritising wellbeing: Encourage regular breaks, physical activity, and mindfulness practices to enhance mental health.

• Setting clear boundaries: Establish specific work hours and non-negotiable personal time to avoid burnout.

• Utilising flexible schedules: Hybrid work models allow for adaptable schedules.

Employees can align their work with their most productive times.

Gen Z employees As the newest entrants into the workforce, Gen Z brings fresh perspectives, values, and expectations. To effectively manage and lead this generation, consider the following: • Mentorship programmes: Pair Gen Z employees with seasoned mentors to facilitate knowledge transfer and professional development.

• Feedback culture: Gen Z values continuous feedback and recognition. Implement regular check-ins and performance evaluations.

• Digital fluency: Leverage their digital proficiency for innovation and problem-solving.

Coaching requirements Coaching and mentoring will play a crucial role in developing the next generation of leaders.

Encourage coaching by: 62 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

• Offering coaching training: Equip leaders with the skills to be effective coaches and mentors.

• Creating coaching cultures: Promote a culture where coaching is the norm, fostering growth and development.

• Personalised development plans: Tailor coaching to individual needs, addressing skills gaps and career aspirations.

Leadership in the digital age Leadership in the era of AI and remote work requires a blend of technical and human skills.

Leaders can thrive by: • Embracing change: Stay agile and open to technological advancements, leading by example in embracing digital tools.

• Cultivating empathy: Develop emotional intelligence to connect with and understand the needs of a diverse workforce.

• Inclusive leadership: Foster inclusivity by valuing diverse perspectives and ensuring equal opportunities for all employees.

Equipping people with human skills While AI can handle many tasks, it cannot replicate human skills like creativity, empathy, and critical thinking. Encourage the development of these skills by: • Investing in training: Offer workshops and courses that focus on human skills development.

• Cross-functional teams: Encourage collaboration among employees from diverse backgrounds and skill sets to stimulate creativity.

• Encouraging continuous learning: Make lifelong learning a core value, empowering employees to adapt to evolving demands.

The future of work is an exciting yet challenging landscape, where AI, Gen Z employees, remote work, and leadership intersect. Organisations that prioritise agility, learning, and well-being will thrive in this evolving environment. By fostering a culture of adaptability, embracing the strengths of Gen Z, and equipping employees with essential human skills, businesses can navigate the digital AI era while creating a balanced and productive workforce.

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

The business case for

innovation The successful implementation of new ideas is crucial to helping a business retain its competitive edge. But how can a business adopt a culture of innovation?

Why innovate?

Get everyone involved

Innovation is vital for any businesses. It can help keep a company at the forefront of new developments and technology, which in turn can help it stay ahead of its competition, exploit new markets and improve its profitability. It can also create opportunities for greater efficiency, establish new partnerships and produce a more engaged and productive workforce. Innovation can mean a standalone breakthrough – a totally new product or service, for example, or a series of smaller changes.

You may think that to be innovative, you need to assemble a top team of creatives, or that it should be left in the hands of the board or upper management. However, you shouldn’t limit your opportunities to be innovative before you’ve even begun. Bringing different departments together can spark conversation, which in turn can lead to creation, as your staff mix with people they might not usually interact with. You may find that some of them have been waiting for an opportunity to have their ideas heard, or that a change of scenery can trigger new ways of thinking. Reward innovative ideas, as incentives can help encourage staff to think more creatively.

Start with your customers Don’t innovate for innovation’s sake – you can waste a lot of time and money developing a service that your customers don’t want or need.

A great starting point is finding out exactly what your customers like about your product or service, and what can be improved. Are there any gaps in their lives that your service could fill? Could your product be cheaper, or easier to use? Conduct customer surveys and market research to generate constructive criticism and get an insight on what they want.

Figure out if technology is for you New technology can present incredible opportunities for businesses looking to innovate.

Embracing technology can be as simple as moving paper-based systems to the cloud, selling your product online, or as

technical as adopting cutting-edge tools such as artificial intelligence or virtual/augmented reality.

However, consider the fact that you don’t necessarily have to invest in the latest tech to be innovative. Coming up with a better way to streamline your workforce or generate new sales is just as innovative, and can be just as dramatic on your bottom line as developing worldchanging technology.

Don’t be afraid of failure Adopting a culture of innovation requires businesses to be open to experimentation, but businesses must also acknowledge that not every experiment will prove to be fruitful. Don’t let the fear of failure put you off however – even the most successful companies have made mistakes or had projects fail. It is important to learn from your mistakes and use that knowledge to refine your ideas.

You must encourage risk taking and experimentation among your staff too; create a support environment where your employees feel free to express their ideas without criticism, and don’t penalise those who try new ideas and fail.

‘Innovation can mean a standalone breakthrough – a totally new product or service, for example, or a series of smaller changes’

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FEATURE: ENTERPRISE & INNOVATION

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FEATURE: HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE

Living well means working well

By Lee Bates, chief operating officer, Community Together CIC ur work is centred around helping people to ‘grow well’, ‘live well’ and ‘age well’. We are inclusive and embrace anyone who needs help to contact us, hopefully early on so we can prevent crisis in people’s personal lives.

We have been operating for 13 years and have seen ups and downs in local, regional and national life, from recovery to the 2008 financial crash to the pandemic and more recently the cost of living crisis and energy crisis.

We understand and know the impact the current situation is having on work forces across the country. As increased in-work poverty takes a grip, we are supporting thousands to become as resilient as possible in these turbulent times.

However, hope is aways at hand, as there is a world of community and voluntary support agencies out there that can catch people early, prevent crisis, and ultimately prevent people needing to take time off work.

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Our organisation can offer a range of support for employees. For example: • We have been into workplaces meeting rooms or canteens to offer a ‘Wellbeing Market Place’ and share details of the support that is out in the community.

• We supply a free community connector directory that can be placed in workplaces.

The directory is in alphabetical order in order of issue i.e., ‘M’ for mental health.

• We offer a free telephone support line that people can call to get connected to the services that they need to support them.

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• We offer free workshops around maintaining wellbeing.

7. Accept the things you can’t change

Our top 10 tips for wellness in the workplace:

Changing a difficult situation isn’t always possible. Try to concentrate on the things you do have control over.

1. Take control Keep your workspace tidy. Knowing where you can find your tools/papers can help reduce unnecessary stress.

2. Maintain sleeping patterns Sleep is essential for both our physical and mental health. Most adults need an average of seven to nine hours of sleep a night.

3. Watch what you eat and drink Eat a well-balanced diet with lots of fresh fruit/vegetable. Avoid unhealthy snacks. Avoid nightly drinking alcohol on a working week.

4.Look after your health Take regular moderate exercise – 30 minutes every day can help you feel calmer and boost your wellbeing.

8. Pay attention to the present moment (mindfulness) Paying more attention to the present moment can improve your mental wellbeing. This includes your thoughts and feelings, your body and the world around you.

9.Stay hydrated Staying hydrated can keep you alert and energised throughout your workday.

10. Reduce your caffeine consumption Some people enjoy having coffee during the workday to help them stay alert. However, this alertness only lasts for a short period and sometimes leads to a crash later in the day.

5. Stay connected The support of a good social network is important. Take time to develop your relationships with family, friends and colleagues.

Be open with them about how you’re feeling.

6.Positive self-talk is important Try to challenge any negative or anxious thoughts. Sometimes having negative thoughts can affect our mood and the way we feel. Talk to yourself kindly and with encouragement.

‘We understand and know the impact the current situation is having on work forces across the country’

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FEATURE: HEALTH IN THE WORKPLACE ADVERTISEMENT FEATURE

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Sector Focus The latest news from the sectors that matter to business

Bus services secured until 2024 Bus services across the West Midlands will continue to operate at near current levels until the end of 2024 following an agreement between Transport for West Midlands (TfWM) and the bus operating companies, including National Express West Midlands and Diamond Bus. The deal heads off the immediate threat of around one third of the region’s bus services being withdrawn or frequencies reduced following the ending of Government Covid support funding in June.

Operators have faced increasing cost pressures due to steep rises in fuel, maintenance, and staff costs over the last two years and are struggling to keep buses on the road.

Mayor Andy Street led talks with the bus companies and the Government to secure the agreement to protect services.

TfWM, part of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), has re-allocated some of the region’s £88m Bus Service Improvement Plan grant to keep services running while a long-term sustainable funding solution is found. This grant, awarded to TfWM by the Department for

Transport last year, was to be used on a variety of initiatives to encourage more people to use buses – but now approximately £40m will be used to support bus operators to maintain services at their present level. However, TfWM is still on course to invest in improved bus Safe: The West Midlands bus network

priority, more electric and hydrogen buses, as well as securing agreements with operators.

Mr Street, also chair of the WMCA, said: “Buses are the backbone of our public transport network - providing a vital daily service for tens of thousands of local people at the same time as helping us to tackle the climate emergency and reduce traffic congestion on our roads.

“That’s why we simply could not allow a substantial reduction in services and I personally made the case on behalf of our region during intensive discussions with the likes of National Express West Midlands and the government.

“By stepping in and arranging this funding package to maintain bus service provision, we’ve successfully secured much-needed certainty for the network all the way through to the end of next year.”

Staffordshire EV plans get funding A Government funding allocation of over £5m to Staffordshire to support the delivery of an electric vehicle charging network in the county has been confirmed.

Staffordshire County Council is one of 13 local authorities, together with regional transport body Midlands Connect, to successfully bid for a total of £39.3m from the Local Electric Vehicle Infrastructure scheme.

The fund aims to help local councils scale up the delivery of local charge points, allowing more residents, especially those without offstreet parking, to switch to EVs. Charge points will be installed between 2024 and 2028.

Early this year, the county council approved Staffordshire’s public electric vehicle charging strategy that sets out plans on how the authority will meet the needs of communities and businesses as electric vehicle use continues to increase.

The county council is working closely with district and borough councils across the county, private providers and the energy sector.

With sales of new petrol and diesel engine cars restricted from 2030 and new hybrid vehicles by 2035, councils across the country have been asked by central government to support the transition through strategies to boost availability of charging points.

Currently, approximately 97 per cent of homes without off-street parking in Staffordshire are not within a convenient walk of a public charging point, which is around 92,000 properties.

Staffordshire County Council’s cabinet member for highways and transport David Williams said: “It’s great news that our funding allocation to support the implementation of Staffordshire’s electric vehicle charging network has now been confirmed.

“We understand that electricity may not be the only type of alternative power for vehicles in future years, but it’s vital that we have our local electric vehicle infrastructure in place as soon as possible.”

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Cycling safely: Children riding along part of the Binley Cycleway in Coventry

New measures to improve safety Measures to improve pedestrian crossings, provide a high-quality cycleway and improve bus service reliability are to be introduced along a critical corridor in the West Midlands with the aim of encouraging travellers to leave their cars at home.

The £4.5m package will be used to encourage more people to cycle, walk or take the bus for their journeys contributing to Coventry becoming a greener and better-connected city.

The measures include a high-quality segregated cycleway along the Foleshill Road, extending south to the A4053 ring road at Junction 9.

The scheme will also aim to reduce through traffic using Foleshill Road and improve bus journeys as part of the All Electric Bus City scheme, which will see all buses in Coventry become zero-emission by 2025. Upgrades to the A444 Blue Ribbon roundabout will, with new crossings, improve safety for pedestrians and cyclists and allow bus priority to further support public transport.

The package is being developed by Coventry City Council in partnership with Transport for West Midlands (TfWM).

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SECTOR FOCUS: BUSINESS TRAVEL

Best bus driver hails from Brum A Birmingham bus driver has been named the UK’s best in this year’s UK Bus Driver of the Year competition.

Lee Grantham, from National Express West Midlands’ Acocks Green depot, secured the title after competing against more than 100 other finalists.

Lee, 35, has been with the company for seven years and regularly drives the number 72 and 73 routes.

The UK Bus Driver of the Year final took place in Blackpool, where the competition has been held since 1982. Lee took part in a series of driving challenges with others from bus companies across the country, including colleagues from two of National Express West Midlands’ other depots.

Lee said: “I am on cloud nine to win the Bus Driver of the Year 2023 national finals - it is a dream come true. My ambition in life is to deliver 100 per cent all of the time.

“Winning would not have been possible without the time and effort put in

by National Express West Midlands and of course the training school, who do an amazing job. I’m honoured to bring the winning trophy back to the West Midlands and especially my home garage of Acocks Green.”

Jenny Tocknell, UK head of engineering and operational safety at National Express, said: “National Express West Midlands drivers are some of the best in the country. They play a vital role in helping our customers get to where they need to be, with the highest standards of skill and service.

“We are really proud that we had three brilliant drivers taking part in this year’s UK final and would like to congratulate Lee for such a brilliant effort on the day to secure the top spot - it’s very well deserved!”

National Express West Midlands has also recently celebrated its 130 Master Drivers and 15 Elite Drivers at the company.

The company’s award-winning Master Driver programme recognises excellence in driving, measuring the performance of drivers and identifying those with an impeccable safety record and outstanding driving and customer service skills.

Best in UK: Driver Lee Grantham

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SECTOR FOCUS: FINANCE

Hospitality sector hit by rising interest rates A warning that rising interest rates may have a harmful knock-on effect on the Midlands’ leisure and hospitality sector follows new data released by a leading audit, tax and consulting firm.

The fears were expressed by Mark Taylor, partner in the Midlands at RSM UK, following the release of the RSM UK Middle Market Business Index (MMBI), a quarterly survey of 411 senior executive at middle market companies conducted in July.

The Index jumped to 146.5 in the quarter 3 (Q3), its highest level since the survey began in 2021.

But the new data shows that many middle market businesses are performing well, with sentiment and growth on the up. While this is good news for business, it presents a problem for the Bank of England (BoE) as it grapples with inflationary pressures, say RSM. Mr Taylor said: “Rising interest rates are very much front of mind for both households and businesses. With businesses forced to pass on price increases to consumers, the hope is that the rising cost of goods, combined with higher mortgage payments, doesn’t cause a harmful knock-on effect on the Midlands’ leisure and hospitality sector as the scope for discretionary spending tightens.”

The big jump in the proportion of firms increasing prices in Q3 (46 per cent in Q2 to 55 per cent in Q3) led to a surge in the proportion of firms saying their turnover and profits rose (43 per cent to 53 per cent and 42 per cent to 54 per cent respectively).

But while the proportion of firms saying they were having to pay more for their inputs fell (72 per cent to 65 per cent), the increase in the number of firms increasing their prices suggests Hope: Mark Taylor inflation may fall slowly.

There was also a major increase in the proportion of firms saying they were hiring more people (43 per cent to 54 per cent) and in the number of firms paying their people more money (44 per cent to 55 per cent). This could pour more cold water on any hopes that the labour market is about to materially ease.

Thomas Pugh, economist at RSM UK, said: “Our latest quarterly index reveals that many middle market businesses are in good shape. Much of the increases we are seeing in our index stem from an improvement in the ability of firms to pass on price increases to their customers. While that doesn’t necessarily mean the underlying economy is booming as most economic data is adjusted for changes in prices, firms would be unable to raise prices unless underlying demand was strong.

“This suggests that the economy is likely to avoid falling into a recession, at least over the next six months. But our latest MMBI data won’t be looked upon favourably by the BoE given the challenges they face.

“The Monetary Policy Committee (MPC) has emphasised that the labour market will be key to its decision to increase interest rates again, so higher pay growth suggests more rate hikes are coming down the track as the MPC may have to do more to suck demand out of the economy.”

RSM’s MMBI presents an insight into the health of the middle market – the engine room for growth in the UK - while drawing on credible forwardlooking indicators to deliver predictive economic insight over a sixmonth period.

• See The Griffin Report on pages 16 and 17.

Smart-Space announces sale

Stellar business: John Stephan

BDO LLP has advised on the sale of Tamworth-based Portable Venues (Group) Limited, trading as Smart-Space, to the French group Lauralu for an undisclosed sum.

The Midlands company specialises in the supply of temporary, semi-permanent, and permanent buildings. It has been acquired by Lauralu, through its parent company, SAS TempAsset.

BDO acted as M&A advisers to the shareholders of Portable Venues, led by partner and head of Global M&A John Stephan and director Alan Chan, supported by Elle Oldham (assistant manager).

BDO’s tax team of partner Paul Townson and John Angood (director) also advised on the sale, with partner, Steve Talbot, and Lauren Bryan (manager), providing advice to the company on tax planning.

Mr Stephan said: “Portable Venues is a fantastic example of a homegrown, family-run business that has built up a stellar customer base and a strong reputation in the temporary buildings sector over several decades through a focus on customer service.’’

Smart-Space works with a wide range of high-profile brands, such as Kia Motors, Dairy Crest, Airbus, Exon Mobil, and Jaguar Land Rover. Established in 1985, it employs more than 60 people in the West Midlands, offering building and installation, maintenance and support services.

Lauralu specialises in modular structures for industrial and commercial applications, providing temporary building and permanent structures to a broad spectrum of industries, including transport and logistics, retail, sport and leisure, film and television, and education.

Great fit: Richard McNeilly

Dains complete new acquisition Dains Accountants has acquired PSTAX and S3TAX, the public sector and not-forprofit VAT and employment tax specialists.

Founder Peter Gladdish has championed the decision to join the Dains group of businesses.

He said: “Having been established for 20 years, PSTAX is delighted to join forces with Dains as we continue to grow our market share across the UK. “With Dains’ support, we will be able to provide a broader service to our clients and connect to an incredible network of advisors across the group.”

Richard McNeilly, CEO of Dains, said: “PSTAX and more latterly S3TAX, which was launched in 2022, have developed a fantastic proposition for clients which blends helpline support and training with first-class consultancy advice.

“The team is a great fit and although we traditionally operate in different market segments, our ethos is absolutely consistent, where we support clients and help them deliver long-term success.”

Duncan Groves, managing director of PSTAX, believes the move is perfect for clients and his team.

He said: “Our business is built on the quality of our people and our clients.

Investment from Dains will enable the business to continue to grow and provide even better career opportunities for our talented team.”

Dains were advised by DSW (financial and tax due diligence), Forward Corporate Finance and CMS (Legal).

PSTAX were advised by DSA Prospect and Knights Solicitors.

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

Don’t take crypto to the grave Holders of cryptocurrency have been urged to take precautions to ensure their loved ones can access the funds if they die.

According to the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), about 10 per cent of people in the UK own some form of cryptocurrency such as Bitcoin or Ethereum - with ownership doubling between 2021 and 2022.

It is also estimated that cryptocurrency users and investors have a combined wealth of more than £3bn – and this number is projected to continue growing.

Craig Ridge, partner and head of contentious probate at leading West Midlands law firm Higgs LLP, warned that many crypto investors have failed to take adequate steps to ensure their digital coins aren’t lost forever when they die.

“Digital assets can be left in a will, gifted or inherited, like any other asset such as property and money,” said Craig. “However, there are

crucial differences compared to leaving traditional financial assets that are held by a bank or building society.

“There is no responsible organisation that can provide access to cryptocurrency, so the owner must leave an up-to-date digital inventory that contains clear instructions to the executor and/or beneficiaries on how to access the digital key for the virtual wallet, where the funds are held.

‘Digital assets can be left in a will, gifted or inherited’ “If the digital key code cannot be found, it is highly likely that the beneficiaries will lose access to the money, regardless of how much is involved. The fact that the level of security surrounding the virtual wallets is so high – and that the entire process is decentralised – means there is no way for a third party to get to it.”

Craig said digital inventories containing clear details on how to access cryptocurrency should be kept in a secure location but, crucially, they should not form part of the will itself.

He said: “Once a grant of probate is obtained wills are available for anyone to read. Therefore, never leave specific instructions on how to access the private key in your will.

“Digital inventories need to include all passwords to access computing devices, all usernames for online accounts and private keys. It might also be advisable to set up a Lasting Power of Attorney that includes explicit instructions on how to deal with cryptocurrency and other digital assets should you lose mental capacity.”

The dispute resolution team at Higgs LLP can offer the most up-to-date and pertinent advice about leaving cryptocurrency in wills.

Contact Craig Ridge on 01384 327258 or craig.ridge@higgsllp.co.uk

Law firm supports agri-tech start-up

Time is running out for SAM borrowers

Support from Midlands law firm Shakespeare Martineau has enabled a sustainable waste management technology business to secure its second successful round of SEIS fundraising.

EcoNomad Solutions, based in Hertfordshire, is an award-winning agri-tech start-up that designs, produces and exports simple and affordable waste-to-energy solutions to farms around the world – helping small livestock farms to increase their ability to operate sustainably on and off the grid.

The latest round of fundraising

Thousands of homeowners trapped by shared appreciation mortgages (SAMs) in the 1990s should take legal advice as soon as possible as there are time limits within which compensation must be claimed, according to national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP. Laura Robinson, who leads national law firm Clarke Willmott LLP’s specialist financial services litigation team, says banks such as Barclays sold SAMs between 1997 and 1998. Some individuals are reportedly being required to pay their lender over £1m, having borrowed a tiny fraction of that. SAMs typically appear to have been sold to elderly people as a means to free up a small proportion of equity, but in return, the lender would take the majority of the property's future appreciation in value. The mortgages tended to involve lending around 25 per cent of the value (as it was at the time) of the home to the owner in return for a 75 per cent share in any increase in value.

Laura said: “Many homeowners, or their estates, are now living with the extreme consequences. Unfortunately for the borrower, with the lender claiming something in the region of 75 per cent of the increase in value of the property, this often amounts to very large sums where house prices have increased dramatically over the years.

“With people living longer into retirement, the period that the SAM was in place could be substantial and the property could have increased in value very significantly; average house prices have increased by more than 350 per cent since the late 1990s. ‘’The effect is that some people with SAMs are finding themselves with far too little left to buy a new home, having handed over 75 per cent of their home’s increase in value to their Consequences: Laura Robinson lender.”

Aligned values: Ashley Taylor

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will primarily be allocated to team expansion, customer base growth, and investment in research and development for new products.

The company’s innovative, modular and scalable technology is easily installed in places where manure or slurry is regularly collected, such as small livestock farms, micro-dairies, petting zoos and animal sanctuaries, converting waste into renewable fuel for generating onsite heat and energy.

At present, the EU and the UK produces about 1.4 billion tonnes of manure per year from livestock farming operations, while this sector accounts for 10 per cent of anthropogenic greenhouse gas emissions globally.

Ashley Taylor, corporate associate at Shakespeare Martineau who led the deal, said: “As a BCorporation ( business that demonstrates its commitment to social purpose), these projects are very aligned with our own values, so we’re really pleased to have supported the EcoNomad team once again in their growth and development of products that have a positive impact on the farming industry.”

Shakespeare Martineau has also backed an international cloudbased enterprise data analytics platform, Rosslyn Data Technologies, to raise more than £3m to help scale the business and meet the demand of its growing client base.

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SECTOR FOCUS: LEGAL

Thursfields, a leading law firm in the Midlands, has recently expanded to larger premises in the heart of Birmingham. The new office, located on the corner of Colmore Row and Bennetts Hill, provides a more accessible space to clients and colleagues, supporting the firm’s ambitious growth plans to provide quality legal services to both businesses and individuals in the West Midlands and beyond.

The new space has been designed to promote a positive work environment and enhance work collaboration at the firm. With a 2,723 square footage, the office embodies an open-plan layout that is versatile and fosters a personable atmosphere. Employees have the flexibility to choose how and where they work, in order to maximise collaboration and deliver quality results.

The office has also been technology-enabled in line with the firm’s digital transformation programme, which is being led by Technology Director, Richard Webb.

Thursfields’ Corporate and Commercial Team is already based in Birmingham and strongly focuses on advising clients through Mergers and Acquisitions, Restructuring Work, and Governance.

Birmingham is also a recognised hub for the professional services sector in the UK and as such, there are many professionals working in this sector who have their own need for legal services,

whether that be legal advice on Family Matters, Conveyancing Services, or Wealth Planning. With its new office space, Thursfields is well placed to provide personal legal services to those professionals at a time and in a place that is convenient to their working schedules.

Specialising in Corporate & Commercial, Commercial Real Estate, Commercial Litigation, Dispute Resolution, Employment Law, Wills & Estate Administration, Residential Conveyancing, Family Law and Wealth Protection.

Contact us to learn more.

Michelle O’Hara (pictured), Managing Director at Thursfields, explained the firm’s plans, saying: “The firm has experienced consistent expansion over the past five years and these new offices give us the right infrastructure to serve both businesses and individual clients within the region as well as increase our reach across the UK. We have already made a number of additional senior hires for the Birmingham office and look forward to welcoming those new colleagues in the coming months.”

A full service law firm built around you, Thursfields provides high-quality and reliable legal advice to businesses and individuals nationwide.

T: 0345 20 73 72 8 E: info@thursfields.co.uk W: thursfields.co.uk

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

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SECTOR FOCUS: MANUFACTURING

Manufacturing recovery goes against the trend West Midlands manufacturers are continuing to see positive activity in the second half of the year, despite fears of a potential downturn ahead amid slowing consumer spending and demand overseas.

Most notably, the positive picture was driven by a strong pick-up in the motor vehicles sector amid an easing of chip shortages and improvements in supply chains from the Far East.

Figures published in August showed sales up by a quarter compared to the same period in 2022.

Both output and orders remain strong in the West Midlands with an especially strong order balance of +41 per cent.

Both these are set to increase further during Q3 with orders especially strong at +37 per cent, a figure still extremely high by historical averages.

This was driven primarily by strong export orders (+ 32 per cent).

This positive picture is leading continued recruitment in the region, while investment intentions also remain positive at +17 per cent, significantly above the national picture, possibly reflecting the introduction of full expensing announced in the spring.

In terms of overall output this year, Make UK and BDO are forecasting a contraction of -0.5 per cent, slightly worse than the -0.3 per c ent forecast in Q2.

However, Make UK downgraded its forecast for 2024 to growth of just 0.5 per cent, from 0.8 per cent in Q2.

Chris Corkan, Midlands region director at Make UK, said: “Manufacturers are seeing a mixed picture as the potent cocktail of rising interest rates, cost of living and slowing overseas markets bites hard.

“While it’s clear the Chancellor doesn’t have a financial war chest to try an d boost growth, he should use his Autumn Statement to bring forward carefully targeted measures which could make a difference to companies’ efforts to boost skills and productivity. He should use whatever is available to get the best bang for his buck.”

Jonathan Lanes, head of manufacturing at BDO in the West Midlands, said: “Buoyed by strong automotive demand, West Midlands manufacturers are bucking the nati onal trend reporting positive results as they enter the final quarter of the year.

“Meanwhile, UK-wide, businesses are feeling the pinch of the Bank of England’s plans to stamp out inflation.

“In the absence of an overarching industrial strategy from government, we can expect manufacturers to tighten their purse strings, protect margins and focus on building operational efficiencies over the next few months.”

Bucking the national trend: Jonathan Lanes

WMCA invests in the future workforce Nearly 10,000 people have been helped in learning the skills needed to work in the region’s engineering and manufacturing sectors thanks to a £22m investment by the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA).

The scale of the support given since 2019 was revealed by Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, during a keynote speech to more than 40 businesses attending the Enterprise Forum at Make UK’s Technology Centre in Aston. The Forum, organised to look at how skills and education are the key to the Government’s levelling up strategy, also provided an important opportunity for businesses to explore how they can work more closely with the WMCA to improve local people’s education and skills.

The mayor has responsibility for the allocation of the region’s £165m Adult Education Budget (AEB) and oversees the WMCA’s work with businesses in shaping training programmes.

The advanced manufacturing and engineering (AME) sector is

worth more than £16bn to the region – around 15 per cent of its total economy – providing around 200,000 jobs.

There are currently around 7,000 job vacancies with the AME sector which has been hit particularly hard by the pandemic and other economic factors.

The WMCA engineering and manufacturing plan outlines its strategy to address the shortfall, enhance productivity, and drive growth. By partnering with colleges, universities, and training providers the plan aims to improve the range of sector-specific training available and make it more flexible in delivery.

The WMCA Apprenticeship Levy Scheme, has also secured £45m of funding to support 3,806 people into apprenticeships at 1,444 small to medium enterprises (SMEs) across the region.

Mr Street said: “Since 2019, we’ve invested £22m to equip more than 10,000 learners right across our region with the skills they need to succeed - supporting our engineering and manufacturing

Leveling up (left to right): Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands, Celia Charlwood, head of Government affairs, Make UK, Andrew Cumpsty, chairman of The Enterprise Forum, Chris Corkan, interim region director, Midlands and East of England, Make UK

sector. That is a remarkable milestone worthy of celebration and - by ensuring we have a skilled workforce in what is a highly specialised sector – we’re boosting our growth prospects in the months and years ahead.”

Cllr George Duggins, the WMCA’s portfolio holder for productivity and skills and leader of

Coventry City Council, added: “I would encourage manufacturing businesses to work with the WMCA to further strengthen partnership working, particularly on curriculum development and on linking our training to skills demand.”

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SECTOR FOCUS: PROPERTY

Landlords must meet new energy regulations Commercial landlords could be faced with owning properties they cannot let or even sell if they fail to meet new energy efficiency rules which could be introduced by the government.

That’s the warning from specialist property solicitor Phil Hunt, who says that a phased introduction of new minimum energy ratings between now and 2030 is set to catch out many landlords.

The proposed new rules will see the government raising the minimum energy efficiency rating for all properties to a C rating by 2027, with all properties having to reach a higher B energy grade by 2030.

The time before the two deadlines, known as ‘compliance windows’, will support landlords by allowing them time to complete improvement works and obtain the

necessary Energy Performance Certificate (EPC), which must be in place to sell or let a property.

Phil, an associate at Birmingham law firm mfg Solicitors, said: “Whitehall-led changes to energy efficiency rules have been on the cards for some time, and while the changes have not been confirmed, there is likely to be a clear sevenyear timetable for landlords to work towards.

“The importance of the minimum energy efficiency rules cannot be overstated. Not only do they affect a landlord’s ability to let property, but also a seller’s ability to sell, and a borrower’s ability to borrow.

“Naturally, any buyer or lender will want to know that the rules have been complied with before they proceed with a transaction, and I am keen that landlords realise the need to be proactive and begin to put changes in place now, to

avoid owning a property which they cannot sell, let or borrow against.

“My message is that landlords must take the best advice and start looking across their whole portfolio now to audit where the risks are and therefore avoid issues and what could be an unprofitable property investment.”

Commercial landlords looking for more information on the proposed new energy efficiency rules can email Phil at phil.hunt@mfgsolicitors.com mfg Solicitors offer a wide variety of commercial property services across all of its offices in Worcestershire, Shropshire and the West Midlands. This includes advice on the sale or purchase of industrial or retail premises, refinancing, commercial planning and development and complex land issues.

Get advice: Phil Hunt

Siddall Jones sells Outsourcing firm huge industrial site secures new building Siddall Jones has successfully sold Swallow House, located on Shilton Industrial Estate, in Bulkington, following a competitive bidding process.

Siddall Jones was instructed to dispose of the 40,273 sq ft asset following the insolvency of the previous occupier X K Engineering Ltd. Ryan Lynch, a director of commercial property agents Siddall Jones, said: “We were delighted with the response to our marketing campaign for Swallow House and secured numerous bids from both owner occupier and investor purchasers.”

On behalf of a private client, Siddall Jones was inviting offers over £1,650,000 for the freehold of Swallow House, which boasts circa 40,000 ft2 of industrial space across ground and first floor levels, secure forecourt parking and loading access, on a site area of 1.2 acres.

The property has been sold to timber engineering business Wolf Systems Ltd, which is already located on Shilton Industrial Estate.

Guy Hands of Cartwright Hands said: “We have been looking for a property for Wolf to expand their UK operations for some time and when this opportunity became available, we worked quickly to ensure we secured the purchase.

“Thanks must be given to Ryan at Siddall Jones, who ensured the deal was seamless, Simon Grindlay from BTTJ solicitors, who acted for the purchasers, and the team at Insight Surveyors, who continue to undertake a building surveyor role.”

Flying high: Swallow House, for which offers over £1,650,000 were invited

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SME Outsourcing has acquired its own building in the heart of Edgbaston, Birmingham.

The outsourcing firm was formed 10 years ago by Amina Hussain, former co-president of Asian Business Chamber of Commerce.

After leaving and being inspired

by KPMG, she set up her accountancy firm to provide a tailor-made service for businesses mostly aimed at entrepreneurs who want to expand and grow their businesses at different levels.

SME Outsourcing was set up originally to provide accountancy, advisory and taxation services.

With over 24 years of experience in the accounting and finance sector, Amina Hussain felt there was more to offer businesses as well as accountancy service package.

Amina has now achieved what she set out to do. SME Outsourcing was designed, and now operates in divisions to provide multiple business services for SMEs under one roof.

Her new business partner, Brendan Pooni, trading as SME Financial Services is responsible for all types of lending for individuals and businesses.

SME Outsourcing has also launched a training school, trading as SME Training Academy to

support local businesses and has opened doors for individuals’ employment opportunities.

Amina said: “Finally it has been done, I had to acquire the building as the business needed stability and security for scaling up. Now I am a looking forward to growing the business to the next stage.”

Multiple services: Founder Amina Hussain

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

A royal honour for recruitment specialist Precision work: Henry Hewitt at European Heathyard in Brownhills

Campaign to train welders Two engineering businesses are the latest to join the Ladder for the Black Country campaign as they look to recruit five new apprentices.

Lead training provider Performance Through People (PTP) is recruiting for four welding vacancies at European Heathyard Engineering in Brownhills, which supplies the nuclear power industry, and two more for kiln and furnace manufacturer Bricesco, based in Wednesbury.

To support the recruitment programme – and provide an opportunity for anyone local who is considering an apprenticeship in welding – PTP is running a six-week Route to Work programme at its engineering centre in Walsall.

Kevin Newell, the project manager at PTP Training working with the two companies, said: “There is a high demand for skilled welders in the Black Country but also for fabrication skills.

“This course will provide applicants with a grounding in both skill sets and follows consultation with both employers. We work closely with recruiting companies to ensure they can find recruits with the right attitudes and aptitudes.”

The six-week welding course is fully funded for any West Midlands resident aged 19 years or over who is not in employment, education or training.

As part of the process both employers are offering handson work experience where the applicant can shadow experienced welders while being mentored in the workplace.Email apprenticeships@ladderfor blackcountry.co.uk or call 01922 651100.

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Independent recruitment specialist Pertemps Network Group has won a training and development award from HRH The Princess Royal after demonstrating a massive 677 per cent return on investment and year-on-year sales increase.

Delivered by the City and Guilds Group, the awards honour organisations in the UK and Ireland who have created outstanding training and skills development programmes which have resulted in exceptional benefits.

Pertemps, based in Meriden, has won recognition for its Ignite training programme, conceived and implemented during the Covid pandemic.

Andy Long, Pertemps people development director, who was the leader of the Ignite programme, recognised the changing client landscape and felt that a new programme was

needed to expand the customer base in a sustainable way.

Andy said: “It is difficult to describe how I feel but I am absolutely thrilled and over the moon. This award is a testament to all those who worked hard behind the scenes to make this happen.

‘It’s evident that training is of paramount importance’ “The application process was rigorous to say the least.

However, it is that level of difficulty and scrutiny that makes our achievement even greater.

“The true thanks need to go to my operational colleagues out in the field who really delivered the results of the programme.”

Being accredited with the Princess Royal Training Award puts Pertemps Network Group in an elite category of organisations

who are driving training and development forward, constantly raising the bar and acting as a beacon for good practice.

Over an 18-month period, Ignite led to gross profit targets being exceeded with a 677 per cent return on training investment and a year-on-year sales increase, based on a targeted programme in the southwest.

Andy added: “Receiving a learning and training award holds profound significance and is a testament to our unwavering commitment towards excellence and innovation.

“Our new accolade reaffirms our dedication to nurturing our workforce and investing in the growth and development of our people. It’s evident that training is of paramount importance and equips individuals and businesses with the skills needed to navigate ongoing changes.”

Local people to benefit from jobs Local people have the chance to learn valuable construction skills while helping to build Birmingham city centre’s latest residential skyscraper.

The West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) has handed £100,000 of its adult education budget to construction firm John Sisk & Son so it can run a Skills Centre hub, offering local people free construction training and a guaranteed job interview at the end of the 20-day course.

Over the past two years, the previous training hub operated by John Sisk & Son at Moda Living’s 433ft tall Mercian tower in nearby Broad Street, created 140 job opportunities for local residents.

The new hub at Moda Living’s Great Charles Street development, is expected to create a further 106 construction jobs, with roles including apprenticeships, graduate positions and general operatives.

The scheme is set to transform a former council car park into 722 homes for rent, with a range of one, two and three-bed apartments, as well as resident amenities including a gym and cinema room. It will feature three blocks, ranging in height from six to 39 stories.

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “One of our key tasks as a region is to

equip local people with the skills they need to succeed - providing them with a pathway into high quality job opportunities close to home.

“Our £100,000 WMCA investment in this training hub doubles down on our commitment to foster job creation and skill development in the months and years ahead.

“Our collective efforts empower local communities, maximise employment prospects and support economic growth right across our region. Together, we're not just building structures - we're building a brighter future for local people and our region as a whole.”

The Great Charles Street site has remained undeveloped for more than 70 years and will create around 470 new jobs.

Tyan Lynvest, 24, who grew up in Birmingham, said: “Prior to this, I was doing a lot of IT, background acting and warehouse work, but I really wanted to get into construction. The construction scheme has given me a lot of stability. For anyone who is thinking of getting into construction, go for it, especially women.”

To sign up, contact the National Careers Service West Midlands on 0800 100 900.

Learning on the job: Andy Street (third left) and James Blakey (fifth left), Moda planning director, with trainees (left to right) Thomas Shirley, Nauman Chickley, Sairan Mohammadi, Tyan Lynvest, Samuel West and Harry Davies at the Great Charles Street development site

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SECTOR FOCUS: SKILLS

Major boost to fund hospitality apprenticeships Budding chefs, restaurant front of house staff and other supporting roles will soon benefit from a range of funded apprenticeships to help them land jobs and progress in the West Midlands hospitality sector.

Compass Group UK & Ireland, the UK’s largest foodservice company has gifted £500,000 to boost hospitality and professional services courses as part of the West Midlands Apprenticeship Transfer Levy Fund. The company serves meals in locations including offices, schools, universities, hospitals, to the military, major sports and cultural venues.

The funding to the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) will help people gain the skills, knowledge and behaviours needed to enter and progress within the hospitality sector and give West Midlands businesses access to more emerging talent – a

vital step in levelling up the region.

The hospitality sector has been hit recently by skyrocketing energy costs, food inflation, high interest rates, a recruitment crisis and tepid customer demand on the back of the Covid pandemic.

Despite these challenges, data from the WMCA shows more than 3,880 job vacancies advertised last month in the metropolitan West Midlands hospitality sector and more than 9,000 across the wider region.

Andy Street, mayor of the West Midlands and WMCA chair, said: “Hospitality is something of a strong suit for our region.

“That’s why it’s great to see Compass Group UK & Ireland supporting this mission by kindly transferring half a million pounds towards our Apprenticeship Transfer Levy Fund. It’s vital that we support our night-time economy and one way we can do

£500,000 boost: Andy Street (second from left) says hospitality apprenticeship training could help people follow in the footsteps of West Midlands celebrity chefs (left to right) Alex Claridge, Aktar Islam and Glynn Purnell

that is by helping local talent to connect with opportunities on offer in hospitality.

“I would encourage employers right across our region to continue to contribute to our levy fund and

recruit apprentices in the months and years ahead. Together, we can work to ensure Birmingham and the wider West Midlands maintains its position as one of the UK’s most exciting food destinations.”

Free course caters to new careers The Aston Villa Catering Club has launched a free eight-week training course starting from 4 October.

On completion, participants will receive a Hospitality and Catering Principles level 2 classification, NCAAS level 2 food hygiene classification and LPG gas safety acknowledgement.

The course will be held at Villa Park and will run on Wednesdays and Thursdays from 9.30 am to 3.30 pm. It’s been delivered in partnership with Digbeth Dining Club, South & City College Birmingham and NCASS Nationwide Caterers Association.

Email am35@avfc.co.uk to register or call 07484902066.

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

Digital screen donation will improve lives State-of-the-art ‘ceiling technology’ at a Walsall children’s hospice is making a difference thanks to a generous local company.

Ten digital screens have been donated by Telford-based Camelott Digital Solutions and installed at Acorns in the Black Country, Walsall, giving children access to stimulation and entertainment in a way not previously possible. Whether it’s watching films, playing computer games or even experiencing interactive multisensory visuals, the screens open up a whole new world for children and can be tailored to the individual needs and preferences of each child.

Vicki Rowles, director of fundraising at Acorns, said: “We are so grateful to Camelott Digital Solutions for the donation of these fantastic screens.

The technology is wonderful and allows the children we care for to access a range of amazing interactive and multisensory features.

“At Acorns we work hard to make our hospices the special places they are, where children can take part in all the things children love to do, regardless of ability. These screens are a brilliant addition to our hospice and one that will really enhance the experience of the children who visit.”

Making a difference: Acorns Nurse Teresa Davies with the ceiling screens

The Black Country hospice has undergone a £2m refurbishment, transforming the much-loved facility for the children and their families that use it every year.

John Ellis, commercial director at Camellott, said: “When we heard Acorns was looking for something like this we were only too pleased to be able to help. We supplied eight screens as well as two interactive screens incorporated into tables on wheels, and we hope they really make a difference to these children's lives.”

Camelott was introduced to Acorns by Ian Bradley, of Bion Electrical, a Wombourne-based company working with Acorns on the hospice refurbishment.

Mr Bradley, said: “We knew Acorns were looking at these screens and we put them in touch with John at Camelott who came up with a package that gave a big cost saving. We are glad we were able to help and this is a great example of how companies can work together to help each other and the wider community.”

Protecting your business against artificial intelligence Challenging duo: Adrian Liew, founder of OPPi, with managing director of EAST VILLAGE Tara Attfield-Tomes

Survey to explore women in tech Multi award-winning PR agency EAST VILLAGE is calling on people to complete its latest survey delving into crucial aspects of attracting more women to tech industries.

The survey looks at how greater inclusivity and representation for women can be achieved in the tech industry: a sector that, despite its prevalence, remains dominated by men. A recent study showed that women hold only 26.7 per cent of tech-related roles and the percentage of women in techrelated careers decreased between 2020 and 2022.

EAST VILLAGE hopes its survey will help reveal actionable and tangible solutions to redress the balance. The survey has been commissioned in partnership with OPPi, the Singapore-based AIplatform that aims to revolutionise the traditional approach to focus groups and surveys, by seeking results and analysing data in realtime.

The survey is open to all genders, ages, and backgrounds, and is now live. Go to stg.oppi.live to have your say.

82 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

With October being Cyber Security Awareness Month, Wavenet - a managed services provider offering cybersecurity, communications and connectivity that grows with businesses - urges companies to safeguard themselves in the lead up to the busy Christmas period. LEIGH TAYLOR, head of the CyberGuard division at Wavenet, looks at the issues.

The landscape of business technology is teeming with promise, as companies increasingly turn to Artificial Intelligence (AI) for innovative solutions.

From automating customer service interactions to honing predictive analytics, AI is unquestionably transforming work.

It is crucial to address an escalating concern about the unethical use of AI by cybercriminals. It adds that artificial intelligence is a double-edged sword for the modern age. While it has many good uses, it also brings new risks that we’re only just beginning to grasp. The implementation of AI in areas such as data analytics and customer relations essentially provides cybercriminals with a ready-made playbook.

The harmful ways AI can be used should not be taken lightly. Machine learning algorithms can quickly go through a huge amount of data, finding weak spots in a computer network much faster than humans ever could. Additionally, AI gives cybercriminals a high level of flexibility. They're no longer stuck using just one way to carry out attacks; they can keep updating their tactics, thereby staying ahead of standard security measures. This means that cyber-attack strategies can evolve in real-time, learning from the countermeasures they encounter to create new, more effective methods of intrusion.

The role of AI in making ‘deep fakes’ is truly worrying. These are extremely realistic fake videos, audio clips and emails that can impersonate family members, friends, customers, and colleagues that could unknowingly mislead you or your employees.

Defending against AI-enabled threats calls for a multifaceted security approach, one that combines advanced technology with strategic partnerships. At CyberGuard, we strongly believe in taking steps before problems happen.

Using a strategic combination of AI technologies and human intervention, we provide 24/7 real-time monitoring and response to threats. This means we constantly watch for risks and deal with them as they come up, which helps keep our customers safe.

We also focus on helping our customers become aware of risks before they become problems. While many businesses only make plans for emergencies when something bad happens, having a detailed plan for all kinds of issues can make a big difference.

The bad use of AI in cybercrime is a problem that keeps growing, but if we use the right methods and tools, we can fight this effectively. Together, we can take on this challenge.

Visit: Wavenet.co.uk

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SECTOR FOCUS: TECHNOLOGY

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SECTOR FOCUS: THE ARTS

Kay’s final play to go on tour The world premiere of Kay Mellor’s final stage play, The Syndicate, arrives at The Alexandra, Birmingham, from 9-13 July next year.

TV and stage star Gaynor Faye, Kay’s daughter, makes her directorial debut, bringing her late mother’s stage adaptation to life in this moving comedy drama.

‘I am also very proud and excited to bring mum’s vision to the fore’ Based on the critically acclaimed BBC One drama that entertained millions of viewers over four series, The Syndicate tells the story of five supermarket workers whose lottery syndicate numbers come in, just as their jobs and livelihoods are under threat.

Will a share of the jackpot make their dreams come true or their

BBC One hit: Timothy Spall with members of the cast

nightmares a reality? One thing’s for certain, the win of a lifetime will change the lives, loves and relationships of the syndicate members forever.

As the final play created by Kay Mellor, who died last year, The Syndicate follows in the footsteps

of her hugely successful TV to stage adaptions of Fat Friends – The Musical and Band of Gold.

Gaynor Faye said: “It is extremely special to be a part of this new theatrical version of ‘The Syndicate’ and one which my mum was really excited to stage. Having

acted in the last series on TV, when she asked me to assist her on directing the show – I jumped at it.

“Now, it has become my first solo directing role and whilst I am so sad not to be doing it with her, I am also very proud and excited to bring mum’s vision to the fore.”

Concert to celebrate 40th anniversary of city’s organist A celebration of Birmingham City organist Thomas Trotter’s 40th anniversary will take place on Friday, 6 October, at Symphony Hall.

Awarded The Queen’s Medal for Music in 2020, Thomas Trotter is among the world’s most celebrated organists and has elevated the tradition of the virtuoso organist to new heights.

As Birmingham City Organist since 1983, and only the seventh post-holder since the position was created in 1834, Thomas Trotter has had a major influence on Birmingham’s musical life. The tribute will be staged by B:Music, the charity responsible for Town Hall and Symphony Hall.

The evening will feature Baroque brilliance in Bach’s Great Fantasia and Fugue; fiendish difficulty for both hands and feet in Edwin Lemare’s transcription of Wagner’s Overture to Rienzi; and Liszt’s Fantasy and

Thomas Trotter

Fugue, based on music from Meyerbeer’s opera Le prophète, which made an emphatic case for the organist as a concert performer, not solely a church musician.

The post of City Organist was created in 1834, and popular weekly recitals started 10 years later. In his 40 years in the post, Trotter has commissioned many exciting new works and the Symphony Hall audience can expect a celebratory piece from Cheryl Frances-Hoad.

Her Celebration Fantasia marks this special occasion by picking out ten great Birmingham moments from the past 40 years, from the opening of Selfridges to the inauguration of the Symphony Hall Organ.

Cheryl Frances-Hoad said: “I was delighted when Thomas Trotter asked me to write a piece for his 40th Anniversary concert and wanted to write a work that really celebrated this milestone. Each section is inspired by an aspect of Birmingham’s history over the last 40 years. The opening section is called ‘1983: Thomas Trotter becomes Birmingham City Organist’ and we end in the present, with the grandest statement of the ‘Thomas Trotter’ theme, inspired by the 40th anniversary concert.”

Thomas Trotter said: “Choosing just one highlight from my 40 years is difficult, but the first for me was when the Town Hall organ was first refurbished in 1984. I gave the reopening concert in October 1984, which was my first big concert as Birmingham City Organist.

“Another highlight would be the opening of the Symphony Hall organ in 2001. But my heart always returns to Town Hall, and the reopening of Town Hall in 2007 was incredibly special. I played an afternoon and evening concert back-to-back for the reopening. The Hall was packed, and it marked my homecoming. It was wonderful.”

For more information and tickets go to: www.bmusic.co.uk

Smash hit musicals return to the stage Birmingham Hippodrome has announced a programme of new productions for 2024 including a stellar line up of West End and Broadway smash-hit musicals.

Unfortunate: The Untold Story of Ursula the Sea Witch (11-13 April) comes to the main stage following sell-out performances in the Patrick Studio in 2019.

Welsh National Opera will be bringing new two productions to Birmingham in Spring 2024; Mozart’s comic opera Così fan tutte (10 May) aka The School for Lovers and Britten’s atmospheric Death in Venice (11 May).

Come From Away (21 May - 1 June) comes to the Hippodrome on its first UK tour. In June, The Wizard of Oz (11-16 June) arrives in Birmingham.

Hit musicals returning to the Hippodrome main stage by popular demand next year include the Broadway and UK smash-hit Sister Act (13-18 May), the international phenomenon SIX the Musical (18-22 June) and Hairspray (16-21 September).

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SECTOR FOCUS: SPORT

The Business of Sport Liquid team up with Albion International communications consultancy Liquid has signed a deal to be a sponsor of West Bromwich Albion Football Club.

Liquid will support both the men’s and women’s teams at The Hawthorns throughout the 2023/24 season, as a Silver Member of The Executive Club.

The new sponsorship adds to Liquid’s long history of working with and supporting local and national sports, including Aston Villa Football Club, DP World Tour’s Betfred British Masters, England Golf, Sport England, Birmingham 2022, the Cyrille Regis Legacy Trust, the British Transplant Games, Transplant Sport and Birmingham City Women.

Liquid CE Elisabeth LewisJones said: “Our teams across the globe love sport in all its forms, so we’re extremely proud to be sponsoring West Bromwich Albion.

“Over the years, we have supported many sports organisations and understand that sport isn’t just about the competition on the pitch or the field, but also a catalyst for economic growth and the opportunity to leave behind a legacy. What’s more, sport has the power to unite communities, instil a sense of civic pride and showcase the people that make a region great.

“We know that we have immense pride in our home and favourite teams, so we can’t wait to join everyone in cheering on West Brom from the sidelines.”

Tomasz Chadwick, head of Commercial at West Bromwich Albion, added: “We are delighted to welcome Liquid as a sponsor for the new season and appreciate their ongoing support. The firm is led by immensely passionate individuals, that understand how important the sporting industry is and the impact it has on communities across the world.

“Liquid has gon e from strength to strength in recent years. We’re proud to have fostered such a strong relationship and look forward to a successful season in partnership.”

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Proud (left to right): BSI's Michelle Williams and managing director Matt Page, alongside Edgbaston's Lydia Carrington and Claire Daniel

Eco-friendly Edgbaston gets ahead of the game Edgbaston Stadium has become the first cricket ground in the country to achieve a global standard for sustainable events as its net zero plans gather pace.

The ground has been awarded the BS ISO 20121 accreditation by the British Standards Institute (BSI) in recognition of its Sustainable Event Management System.

BSI auditors assessed all aspects of Edgbaston’s event planning, including the sustainability credentials of its suppliers, before awarding the certification.

The award was presented during the Go Green Game IT20 between England and New

Zealand, which was the first sustainable international match day of its kind in the UK. Edgbaston’s head of sustainability Lydia Carrington said: “We are incredibly proud of achieving this accreditation… it will support Edgbaston in achieving our sustainability goals.

‘We are incredibly proud of achieving this accreditation’ “Edgbaston is committed to leading the way in sustainability and aims to be the most sustainable cricket venue in the

UK. The BS ISO 20121 supports this by providing a framework, policies and procedures for sustainable management. The accreditation is the culmination of several audits and assessments in which the stadium met BSI’s exacting benchmarks around the planning, monitoring, measurement, policy and leadership of our events.”

The stadium has outlined its green objectives in an Edgbaston for Sustainability pledge in which it aims to be Net Zero by 2030.

BSI’s Sustainable Event Management System focuses on reduced energy use, recycling and waste management, reducing carbon footprint and raising awareness.

Investment drives club’s future A West Midlands golf club has invested £1.6m in refurbishing its clubhouse, supported by a loan from Lloyds Bank, to secure the future of the venue for its members.

Walmley Golf Club, located in the New Hall Valley in Sutton Coldfield, Birmingham, is an 18-hole parkland golf course, dating back to 1902.

The business is primarily volunteer run, employing 14 staff and several part-time hospitality staff.

Thanks to a £500,000 funding package from Lloyds Bank, in addition to existing capital and loans from members, the club has refurbished its clubhouse. It has benefited from a full refit.

The balcony has also been extended out and around the end of the building, to provide views across the course and New Hall Valley.

The clubhouse was constructed in 1965 and has only received minimal upgrades since. The addition of modern energy saving measures, including sensor lighting,

Vision (left to right): Lewis Sheen, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, and Andy Mitchell, chairman of Walmley Golf Club

a new boiler and insulation, will reduce the club’s bills. A lift and refurbished disabled toilets will also help to make the space more accessible.

Lewis Sheen, relationship manager at Lloyds Bank, said: “Walmley Golf Club’s vision is to be recognised as a premiere and progressive venue, and we’re pleased to be supporting them in this goal.

“The club has faced challenges in previous planning applications and our support has been critical to ensuring these important works could still take place.

“Lloyds Bank is committed to supporting businesses that not only prosper and grow, but also benefit the local community, and we’re proud to be by the side of Walmley Golf Club as it creates an inclusive space for all its members to enjoy.”

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Chamber Insight Focus on a member

Name: Greg Pons Company: Evaccess Job Title: Director

What does your company do?

Evaccess specialises in the evacuation and accessibility of those with reduced mobility. We offer a range of equipment which is suitable for both manual and powered wheelchairs and we are the only company in the UK that is able to offer equipment which does not require wheelchair users to leave their chairs in order to be evacuated.

What has surprised you most in your job?

How many lives can improve, simply by providing the correct equipment. For example, one chair can make the difference of a child being able to go to their local school, or even someone who lives in a high-rise building sleeping more soundly, knowing that they have a safe escape plan in the case of an emergency.

How did it all start?

Our journey began in 2008 when I, with experience the lift industry, realised that many people were not being properly considered. This inspired me to start a company which offered a range of powered chairs designed to ascend and descend stairs. In 2013, Julia, our joint director, joined the company due to its significant growth.

What advice would you give to someone starting out?

Take every customer’s needs into consideration.

What’s your greatest achievement so far?

Our government contracts where we are able to supply high profile government buildings, including the Palace of Westminster, with evacuation equipment.

What keeps you awake at night?

The thought that thousands of buildings across the UK still do not contain the correct evacuation equipment, risking the lives of thousands of people, especially those with reduced mobility.

If you could turn the clock back, what would you do differently?

Starting with an integrated accountancy and CRM system sooner. As our business has significantly grown over the past decade, it may have been useful update our systems sooner to provide a more personalised experience for our clients.

Which business do you most admire?

Claddag, which was started by Sarah Rennie after the tragic events of Grenfell. Their aim is to ensure all disabled people remain safe in high-rise buildings. We admire Claddag because this issue is extremely important and they are helping to fight for the rights of disabled people.

What exciting projects is your business working on?

Our innovative way of measuring and fitting products into new sites using digital scanning. It not only makes the planning process easier, but it ensures that the time from first inquiry to our chairs being fitted is reduced, which ensures safer buildings faster.

What made you join Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and how are you making use of your membership?

We are excited to meet other businesses and share our message that all people in the case of an emergency should have the right to keep their dignity and safety.

The Chamber gives us this access to spread awareness.

Contact: 0121 444 3690

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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

OCTOBER Acacia Family Support Kate Davarzadeh 0121 301 5990 www.acacia.org.uk Other social work activities without accommodation n.e.c.

Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Achieve Health Rick Lovell 0121 5148866 www.achievehealth.uk Fitness facilities Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Aldermont Group Limited Gareth Thomas 0121 392 6760 www.aldermont.co.uk Financial intermediation not elsewhere classified Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

Caters Media Group David Burner 07771 693688 catersmediagroup.com Other publishing activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Clancy Consulting Jo Jones 0121 200 7800 www.clancy.co.uk Other engineering activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Core Network Group Vikash Mohan 0330 124 9345 www.c-ng.com Other telecommunications activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

CustomsGuru Ltd Vinnie Sumith 07392519446 www.customsguru.co.uk Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Davies Learning Solutions Ltd Victoria Miles 07811607313 talent.davies-group.com Other education n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

FI Real Estate Management Ltd Naeema Patel 01257 263010 www.fi-rem.com Management of real estate on a fee or contract basis Birmingham Chamber of Commerce 88 CHAMBERLINK October 2023

FindaBiz Networking Amanda Bourne 07748135401 www.findabiznetworking.com Activities of business and employers membership organisations Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Flatpack HR Ltd Martyn Hood 07779555261 www.flatpackhr.co.uk Human resources provision and management of human resources functions Sutton Coldfield Chamber of Commerce

Forward Education Trust Simon Dilkes 07513 484310 www.fet.ac Pre-primary education Solihull Chamber of Commerce

Gaucho Restaurant Rosa Pericu 0121 439 9236 www.gauchorestaurants.com Licenced restaurants Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

GBS Apprenticeships Ltd Andrew Bestwick 01246 925923 gbsapprenticeships.co.uk Other information technology service activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

IT Helpdesk Burton Ltd Zishan Ahmad 01283 337225 it-h.co.uk Information technology consultancy activities Burton and District Chamber of Commerce

Kind Consultancy Mathew Kind 0121 642 2100 www.kindcommercial.com Temporary employment agency activities Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBER SECTION: NEW MEMBERS

As the voice of local business since 1813, we strive to help firms across the region

connect, support and grow.

Kingel Ltd Kingsley Peters 07718906434 www.kingel.co.uk Advertising agencies Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Kroll Advisory Liz Welch 0121 214 1120 www.kroll.com/en Other business support service activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Landmark Space Ltd Jo Kelly 0121 231 3002 www.landmarkspace.co.uk Activities of other membership organisations n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Mathys & Squire LLP Matthew Bone 0121 389 3771 www.mathys-squire.com Activities of patent and copyright agents; other legal activities n.e.c.

Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

New Homes Broker Leonora Valdezco 0808 171 36 46 www.newhomesbroker.co.uk Real estate agencies Lichfield and Tamworth Chamber of Commerce

Novus Nic Parsons 03333 222 888 www.novus.ac.uk Retail sale via mail order houses or via Internet Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Pet-XI Training Limited Fleur Sexton 02476 420310 www.pet-xi.co.uk Other information technology service activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Prodrive Motorsport Adam Fox 01295 754007

www.prodrive.com Other service activities n.e.c.

Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

Ramboll UK Ltd - Birmingham Johnny Ojeil 0121 230 1650 ramboll.com Engineering related scientific and technical consulting activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

RR Accountants Mehmood Rajoka 0121 766 5477 rraccountants.co.uk Accounting and auditing activities Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Sellapy Global Technology Limited Dare Oduguwa 07786219226 sellapy.com Business and domestic software development Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

SSF Group Limited Paul Caron 01902 492400 www.ssf-group.co.uk Activities of head offices Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Training Personified Zoe Bennett 0121 674 4044 trainingpersonified.com Management consultancy activities other than financial management Birmingham Chamber of Commerce

Transmec UK Limited Alex Smith 0121 667 8451 www.transmecgroup.com Freight transport by road Greater Birmingham Global Chamber of Commerce

UK Curriculum and Accreditation Body (UKCAB) Zahid Bhatti 0300 311 1310 www.ukcab.org.uk Other education n.e.c.

Asian Business Chamber of Commerce

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MEMBER SECTION

...any other business A roundup of news from Chamber members Think Mad Men: James A Roberts’ Sixties office in the Rotunda.

Images courtesy of Library of Birmingham Archives

Forgotten archive details 1960s office life Birmingham apartment hotel Staying Cool at Rotunda has unearthed a remarkable archive of images showing Mad Men-style business life in the city in the late 1960s.

The James A. Roberts’ photography archive gives a fascinating insight into the daily routine of the Birmingham-born post-war architect, who designed the iconic Rotunda and based his studios and offices in the top floor of the building after it was completed in 1965.

Staying Cool came across the archive at the Library of Birmingham while delving into Rotunda’s

history for its Creative Heights events – a year of Birmingham art, design, food and literature to celebrate the company's 15 years in the city.

The hotel’s stylish 1960s-themed apartments and penthouses are in the same space once occupied by Roberts’ team of designers and architects. The remarkable pictures show busy studios with blueprints being prepared in a stylish setting. The fashions of the day with beehive haircuts and slim-fit suits are evident, while the interior fittings could have come straight from a Terence Conran catalogue.

Life in the round: The Rotunda interior in the Sixties

Tracey Stephenson, co-founder and joint managing director of Staying Cool, said: “Coming across the images was such an exciting find. They could be straight out of an episode of hit US TV show Mad Men and you almost expect Donald Draper to be waiting in reception for his Rotunda meeting.

“Thanks so much to Stacey Barnfield and the Library of Birmingham archivists who helped transfer the images from print to digital for them to be shared during our Creative Heights programme and to be enjoyed today.”

Selfridges to bring back iconic directory School support: Martyna supported by her colleagues

New lease of life for events equipment Residential events venue Conference Aston showed its support for a local school in the city in a continued push to meet sustainability objectives with two useful donations.

SS Peter and Paul Catholic Primary School in Erdington was presented with a collection of blankets and a stage from the venue in time for children’s activities such as summer picnics and team building exercises.

Conference Aston’s head housekeeper, Martyna Szewczuk, was a key component in the donation and her relationship with the school’s Parents and Family Association paved the way for this partnership.

As part of Conference Aston’s ongoing commitment to sustainable business practices and community engagement, the blankets and a stage were surplus items from the hotel rooms and conference centre that were part of a comprehensive replacement programme of equipment.

Samantha Brown, head of Conference Aston, said: “It is donations and initiatives like this that help us create an impact in the local community.

“We at Conference Aston value supporting our employees and their causes. As we continue to upgrade, we eagerly look forward to contributing more suitable items to causes that benefit the school and its students.”

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Selfridges are bringing the original Yellow Pages directory back to life at their Birmingham store.

The ‘Yellow Pages, Directory of Now’ is a collaboration with Yell.com almost five years after the final copies of the 53-year-old Yellow Pages were delivered in January 2019.

Its namesake is returning to help Selfridges showcase food, fashion, art and more in stores in London, Manchester and Birmingham.

The 72-page ‘Directory of Now’ will be available through Shreej, who have been specialist London newsagents since 1982. Other partners include Versace, NEWGEN, Jil Sander, Nina Ricci by Harris Reed and Martine Rose.

This nostalgic guide will also be available in audio and digital versions.

Yell, who have granted Selfridges the licence to use the ‘Yellow Pages’ trademark,became a fully online business in 2019, connecting 2.5 million businesses with consumers.

Luke Taylor, co-CEO of Yell Ltd, said: “Yell has evolved a lot since we delivered the final copies of the Yellow Pages in 2019, but we’ll never forget how the business started, and we can’t think of a better brand to bring back those origins with, than Selfridges.

“The parallels between both businesses go deeper than just the yellow and black branding, as both of us have been a constant in British life for decades now and have always been focused on offering the Back to life: The Yellow Pages directory available at Selfridges very best to our customers.”

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