SBT issue 474

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IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT RUBIX VT! ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM BRIGHTON’S LEADING TELECOMS PROVIDER

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SHARING SUSSEX BUSINESS STORIES SINCE 1975

All business is symbiotic in nature.

You can be inspiring your peers one day, learning from them the next.

In the end, people buy people.

That makes sharing our stories the most compelling way to connect with one another.

What’s needed is a platform to embrace and empower our regional business ecosystem.

Where varied backgrounds and perspectives provide new context.

Harnessing potential, enabling growth.

And at the heart of it, a dedicated term of curators unlocking insights for the good of us all.

So we’re changing the way people think of connecting.

Because we believe in self-reflection, rather than self-promotion.

By demystifying the art of storytelling, we deliver authentic thought leadership through events, publishing and broadcast media.

We come together to discover, share and grow.

But we won’t be limited by geography, or our imagination.

Instead, we’ll seek out local leaders, visionaries and experts, wherever great businesses thrive.

Growing communities, in partnership with the businesses that power them.

And nurturing the enterpreneurial spirit in everyone.

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SBTWelcome

W E LCO M E

Welcome to another issue of SBT

In a dynamic world, the only constant is change. Savvy businesses recognise this, choosing not to rest on hard-earned laurels but to actively broaden their horizons. An expansion can take many forms, but each has the potential to unlock new frontiers of growth

recognise that innovation is key in today’s ever-evolving landscape.

They also subscribe to the reality that no business exists in a vacuum.

Strategic partnerships and collaborations allow companies to combine expertise, resources and reach, tackling larger challenges and

and sustainability.

accessing new markets.

While stepping beyond familiar borders can help businesses enter

February’s Hospitality Hotspot demonstrates how partnerships can

new markets or support growing aspects of their work, diversification can go even further. Existing expertise can be leveraged to develop complementary products or services, catering to broader customer needs or emerging trends.

make even major projects happen. Discover how the past is being brought bang up to the present with a three-phase plan to revitalise the Royal Pavilion Estate.

Of course, broadening horizons isn’t without its challenges. Careful

In this issue of the Sussex Business Times, we discover how Rubix VT is continuing to grow its core business in telecoms while advancing into recruitment. This is a good sign and a mark of the brand’s strength and versatility.

planning, market research and adaptability are crucial factors. But, for businesses willing to venture beyond the familiar, the rewards are plentiful: increased resilience, market share and the thrill of navigating uncharted territories. In a world hungry for progress, those who dare to broaden their horizons will be the ones shaping the future.

Elsewhere in the magazine, we discover how Loch Associates Group is also expanding. It is opening another office in Sussex, primarily to

How you broaden your brand’s horizon in 2024 could well be

support a growing customer base.

influenced by the inspiring stories featured in this magazine.

Many of the businesses and organisations featured this month

Sam Thomas, Managing Director

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Issue 474

Monthly News

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ISSUE 474

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06 IT’S ALL HAPPENING AT RUBIX VT! ALL THE LATEST NEWS FROM BRIGHTON’S LEADING TELECOMS PROVIDER

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SHARING SUSSEX BUSINESS STORIES SINCE 1975

Cover 474

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Joint Managing Director/Publisher Sam Thomas sam@thebusinessgroup.co.uk 07894 762304 Joint Managing Director Lee Mansfield lee@lifemediagroup.co.uk Production & Design Kim Butler kim@lifemediagroup.co.uk Accounts Clare Fermor clare@lifemediagroup.co.uk Published by The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Licenced to TBG by Pixel Publications Ltd Unit 1a Swan Barn Business Centre, Swan Barn Road, Hailsham, BN27 2BY Printed by Gemini Print Group 1A Dolphin Way Shoreham-by-Sea West Sussex BN43 6NZ 01273 464884 www.gemini-print.co.uk

All material in this publication is strictly copyright and all rights reserved. Reproduction without permission is prohibited. The views expressed in Sussex Business Times Magazine do not necessarily represent the view of The Business Group Sussex Ltd. Every care is taken in compiling the contents but the publishers of Sussex Business Times Magazine assume no responsibility for any damage, loss or injury arising from the participation in any offers, competitions or advertisement contained within Sussex Business Times Magazine.

All prices featured in Sussex Business Times Magazine are correct at the time of going to press.

Copyright The Business Group Sussex Ltd. 2020 ©

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22

Learn about the benefits of a sports-first marketing strategy in a post-cookie world, why inspectors have praised an Eastbourne College and which firm has won the contract for a £7.5 million restoration project at Newhaven Port. We also meet the new Chief Executive of Sussex Cricket and learn why Academy schools are sliding into deficit.

Finance

SEICO Group has a Mortgage Monitoring Service that can offer peace of mind to employees. Learn how your business can benefit. Meanwhile, Carpenter Box outlines delves into the power of Employee Ownership Trusts.

Legal

Alex Jones, of 365 Employment Law, offers the latest advice on equality and diversity in the modern workplace. Changes are afoot for Company Law and Edward Coxall, of Mayo Wynne Baxter, explains what you need to know. Loch Associates Group has further expanded, opening a second office in Sussex.

Cover Story

Rubit VT shares its latest news, including an announcement about Rubix Recruitment and information about Go Giraffe. Meet new hires, learn about the brand’s strategic partnerships and the good causes it will be supporting this year.

30

HR

32

Charity

36

The HR Dept takes a look at neurodiversity in the workplace and explains why great minds don’t all think alike.

Olympian to talk at a new Wellbeing in the Workplace event.

Networking & Events

Webtrends Optimize cements its relationship with Sussex Cricket Foundation, news about HERSTORY III for International Women’s Month, ACUMEN Business Convention update and what’s up next for the Big Business Breakfast Club, as well as Sussex Cricket news.

46

Motoring

48

Chamber News

52

Lifestyle

54

Wine of the Month

How to maximise your AIA Allowance spend and Rivervale announces its charity partner for 2024.

A blueprint to drive net-zero transition and Brighton Chambers throws the spotlight on member Lisa Baskott.

This month’s Hospitality Hotspot focuses on the Royal Pavilion Estate and the huge improvements being delivered in a three-phase renovation project.

Michael Yeoman shares his top tipple for County Business Clubs’ February Wine of the Month. Don’t miss this if you have yet to make your Valentine’s Day choice.

Different Hats helps the world see success differently by evolving beyond the performative side of entrepreneurialism, helping people build the business they want out of the business they’ve got and achieve true happiness and fulfilment.

Event host

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Just found this podcast series. Insightful views from interesting local business people, opening up and sharing their experiences in what seems like a very safe space cultivated by the host, Sam Thomas.

Highly recommended.

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MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Inspectors praise caring community at St Catherine’s College in Eastbourne

St Catherine’s College in Eastbourne has been praised by inspectors for its caring community, where students “feel supported to become the best possible version of themselves”.

In a statutory

Monthly News

inspection carried

out in November, The Church of England Education Office

referred to several examples of excellent practice and praised the College for

creating an atmosphere where pupils “thrive in this caring community that celebrates love at its core.”

The two-day inspection said that

“excellent use” was made of rigorous

external and internal review processes, creating a “rich curriculum and the

flourishing of all groups of students.”

Inspectors said the College, which

teaches 1,079 students, was a popular and successful Church school thanks

to the high expectations set by teaching staff and the leadership team.

“Staff recognise the lifelong impact that is possible if students become ambitious, hard-working, resilient

and responsible,” the report said. It

6 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

praised teachers for their tireless work and added: “Students are proud of their college.”

The pastoral system was highlighted for particular praise. The report said that

vulnerable students were given a “wide

variety” of support and that the provision for students with special educational needs or disabilities was delivered in partnership with parents.

The “rigorous routines” across the

College meant that students were ready to learn and swiftly engage in lessons.

“This ensures that the atmosphere

throughout the College in lessons and social time is calm, purposeful, warm and inclusive,” the report continued.

Deputy Headteacher Nigel Jewell said he was delighted with the findings of

the inspection. “The leadership team, teachers and governors have worked

so hard to create an environment that always seeks to get the best out of students,” he said.

“We work hard to encourage

students to develop a clear sense

of the balance between rights and

responsibilities,” Mr Jewell added.

“This includes making ethical choices and having a responsibility towards

others, both at the College and in the wider world.”

The inspection also looked closely at the religious elements of College life at the

Church of England academy. It said the Christian vision was understood and in evidence throughout the College.

It praised the standard of Religious

Education in the curriculum as being “consistently high quality.”

“Students of all faiths and no faith feel welcomed and included. They enjoy

the sense of community that collective worship provides,” the report added.

St Catherine’s College also receives

Ofsted inspections. The last report in 2019 rated the College as “good”.

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

How a sports-first marketing strategy guarantees long-term loyalty in a post-cookie world With this year’s sell-out Super Bowl highlighting the importance of a sports audience advertising strategy, data and programmatic expert Crimtan points to sport-centric marketing as a vital tool for brands seeking long-term customer loyalty.

According to research

Monthly News

by MRI Simmons,

sports fans exhibit a

28% higher likelihood of paying attention

to commercials. In a post-cookie

landscape, programmatic advertisers

are turning to sport-based approaches to harness audience context and effectively engage viewers.

This year’s impending disappearance of third-party cookies has elevated

the significance of leveraging a single

Advertisers are also having to adapt

and merchandise or pinpointing specific

gathering consent, profiling and

who engage with sports differently.

Sport Intent provides a comprehensive

has long advocated for brands to

this shift with kid-friendly animations

activation and measurement, alongside

advertisers need to embrace a cross-

change beyond all recognition in 2024

Dynamic Creative Optimisation in their

streaming apps and environments as

cookies. But this is not a new challenge.

dynamic delivery, and crafting ads that

robust analytics platforms to seamlessly

finessing our connected cookieless

connected platform that can facilitate

strategies to reach younger viewers

markets to boost broadcast viewership,

dynamic delivery in real time. Crimtan

The upcoming Super Bowl is proof of

solution for marketers worldwide.

be more agnostic across planning,

and characters. To maximise this,

“The world of advertising is going to

integrating AI technology and leveraging

device approach, navigating diverse

with the final goodbye to third party

advertising strategies. Through using

such adaptability is crucial and requires

Since Apple’s ITP in 2017, we have been

dynamically respond to live scores or

consolidate data and audience profiles.

platform for efficient planning, activation

only capture the attention of high-value

When it comes to making the shift

and engagement, enhancing the overall

has joined forces with Planet Sports

content owners like Planet Sport, we

breaking new dataset and dashboard

real-time audience intent signals to

in sports advertising maximises brand

target and measure against data from

such as live game data. This means

with enthusiasts across content

enabling advertisers to target audiences

campaigns with transparent

changing game odds, brands can not

and measurement.

fans but also stimulate increased clicks

to sport-based marketing, Crimtan

“By partnering directly with premium

effectiveness of campaigns.

to launch Sport Intent. This ground-

have an authentic set of fully compliant,

Additionally, an omnichannel approach

revolutionises the way brands plan,

combine with other data components

engagement by seamlessly connecting

over 20 million sports enthusiasts by

we can build high-performing

engagement platforms. Leveraging real-

effectively, maximising advertising ROI.

measurement from end-to-end,

across TV, social media, mobile apps,

Andy Houstoun, Chief Commercial

what drives good performance.”

deepens connections with existing

goal is global brand awareness, targeted

To find out more, please visit:

time game data and creative content and more enhances fan experience,

Officer at Crimtan, said: “Whether the

audiences, and taps into new fan bases.

advertising campaigns for ticket sales

allowing brands to truly understand

www.sportintent.online

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 7

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

Academy schools sliding towards deficit, finds Kreston Reeves annual Academies benchmark The 12th annual Kreston UK Academies Benchmark Report has revealed a marked increase in the number of academies dipping into their reserves to keep up with the significant cost increases that have hit the sector.

Trusts running in-year

Monthly News

deficits – where they are spending more

than their allocated

revenue for that year

– has more than doubled since 2021,

jumping from 19% in 2021 to 47% for the financial year ending in 2023.

Although staffing costs have remained static across the sector non-staffing

costs have seen an increase of 16% per pupil. Energy costs have contributed

significantly to this rise, with average heat and light costs per pupil increasing by a

minimum 49% against the previous year.

Despite this somewhat bleak picture, the sector has fared far better than many predicted.

Peter Manser, Partner and Head of Academies and Education at

accountants and business adviser

Kreston Reeves, said: “Trusts have

been extremely effective in controlling costs in light of financial uncertainty,

managing staff expenditure and putting off large capital projects so the reality is a little more positive than we were

expecting. Unplanned income streams from government have also kept the

wolves from the door and ensured many avoided slipping into deficit.”

The two key additional components of income that were awarded were the

Mainstream Schools Additional Grant

(MSAG) and the Schools Supplementary Grant (SSG). This provided an income

of about £60,000 for an average primary

school and over £200,000 for an average

8 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

secondary school based on the Kreston UK

Academies Group data.

The sector received

£447 million of Energy Efficiency Grants

which also gave a

much-needed boost to the financial results in many cases.

Kimberley Foulkes, a Manager in the Academies and

Education team at Kreston Reeves, adds: “Without this funding, almost all trusts would have made in-year deficits.”

Ongoing uncertainty around funding has impacted heavily on the sector in the

2022/23 financial period with many trusts reporting that they have been unable to make decisions around investment.

Kimberley added: “Trusts don’t know

what additional income streams they will receive from one year to the next. Will

they receive more money to cover energy

costs? How much will be offered to cover pay review and pension contributions?

“This typically results in the trusts

basing their future income on current

income streams. Consequently, it is very common to see a trust feeling confident

about their current budget but predicting a significant in-year deficit in year 2 or 3 in their plans.

“This all leads to a sense of impending financial doom in the sector with

the result that any decisions around investment are fraught with risk. It

is very common for example, to see important decisions around large

capital projects being kicked down the road because of this uncertainty.

“Trusts are also looking at the longer-

term financial options for future stability including possible staff restructures,

trust mergers and further forecasting and analysis of birth rates.”

Published annually by Kreston UK

academies group, a network of accounting firms, the report is a financial state of the nation survey of 279 trusts representing more than 2,300 schools. The survey covers the 2022/23 academic year.

A full Kreston UK Academies

Benchmark Report is available here

- https://www.krestonreeves.com/ wp-content/uploads/2024/02/

Kreston-UK-Academies-BenchmarkReport-2024.pdf

www.krestonreeves.com

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Construction firm awarded major contract for restoration of Newhaven Fort The cost of the project has been set at £7.5 million.

Newhaven Fort has

Monthly News

announced Pilbeam Construction as the

delivery partner for its

£7.5 million restoration.

Newhaven Fort is now closed to the

public so that work can begin. As well as essential repairs and maintenance work to preserve the historic Sussex

landmark, the restoration project will

include new exhibitions, a redeveloped adventure playground and new access to gun emplacements.

The restoration will include a completely

refurbished battery observation post which has never been open to the public before, providing a new visitor experience with

stunning views of the coast. The Romney Hut will also be refurbished, providing a versatile all-year round event space for

school activities, weddings, community events, corporate hire and more.

Restoration work at Newhaven Fort will take place throughout 2024, with the

construction timeline set to be unveiled

soon. The restored fort is due to reopen in early 2025.

Additional funding has been granted for the fort’s restoration by Lewes

District Council as part of the capital

funding programmes being delivered in

Newhaven, including the Town Deal and Levelling Up funds.

Duncan Kerr, chief executive of Wave

Active, which operates Newhaven Fort,

said: “We’re excited for work to begin as we embark on this milestone project to

restore and revamp Newhaven Fort. This is a huge programme of improvement

works to carry out essential repairs and

to create a vibrant heritage destination which Newhaven can be proud of.

“There will be lots of new visitor

and the consolidation of funding from

different grants is a great boost for the restoration of Newhaven Fort.

experiences to look forward to when we

“We’re delighted to help preserve this

to reveal more of our plans. Watch this

and look forward to all the benefits the

reopen early next year, and we can’t wait

unique landmark for years to come

space for announcements.”

restored fort will bring to our town.”

Simon Pilbeam, managing director of

Councillor Johnny Denis, Cabinet

honoured to have been awarded this

Leisure, said: “Newhaven Fort is a local

of Newhaven Fort. We understand

that work to restore and enhance this

and the responsibility that comes with

place so that more people can enjoy

Pilbeam Construction, said: “We are

Member for Arts, Culture, Tourism and

prestigious contract for the restoration

and national treasure and I am delighted

the historical significance of this site

popular visitor attraction will be taking

preserving its heritage.

visiting it in the years to come.

“Our team is dedicated to delivering a

“Families will benefit from a new

history of the fort but also provides a

exhibitions, a refurbished event space

project that not only showcases the rich

children’s play area, there will be new

memorable experience for visitors.”

and lots more, making Newhaven Fort

Chris Ketley, chairman of the Re-

while continuing to attract visitors to

an even better asset for local people

imagining Newhaven Board (formerly

the area.”

“Lewes District Council’s place on the

For more information about Newhaven

just ten local authorities in the country)

www.newhavenfort.org.uk

Newhaven Town Deal Board), said:

national pathfinder scheme (among

Fort, please visit:

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 9

MONTH LY N E WS SP ON S OR

New Chief Executive of Sussex Cricket is named as Pete Fitzboydon The decision to appoint Pete as Chief Executive followed an extensive and rigorous recruitment process.

Sussex Cricket has

Monthly News from March 11.

confirmed Pete

Fitzboydon as its new Chief Executive. He

will take over the role

Mr Fitzboydon is a former Chief

Executive of London Sport and also led both Badminton England and Cycling UK as CEO. He brings experience of driving improvement of governance

standards within professional rugby

through a consultancy role at the Rugby Football Union.

More recently, he served as Interim Chief

Executive of Cricket Scotland, overseeing the Scotland Men’s team who qualified for this year’s ICC T20 World Cup.

Speaking on the new appointment,

Sussex Chair, Jon Filby, said: “I am

10 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

delighted that we have been able to

appoint Pete Fitzboydon as the Chief Executive of Sussex Cricket.

“Pete joins us at an exciting time, as we seek to return our men’s professional

team to the first division of the County Championship, to develop a women’s

professional team, to continuing growing the game in all forms across the county and to continue developing The 1st Central County Ground at Hove.

“The Board and I are very much looking forward to working with Pete, whose

broad experience of leadership in sport

and passion for cricket, kindled by being a frequent visitor to Hove in years gone

by, make him the ideal person to lead us through the years ahead.”

Commenting on his new permanent

role, Mr Fitzboydon, said: “It is truly an

honour to be joining Sussex Cricket as CEO at such an important time.

“I have so many fond memories of

watching matches at The 1st Central

County Ground in the late 2000s when I

lived locally, and I am looking forward to

playing a part as the club seeks to return to those trophy-laden days.

“Sussex Cricket is an exceptional

organisation with a rich heritage. There are so many exciting opportunities

ahead for Sussex Cricket, not least developing the women’s game and

helping the sport to widen its appeal to all communities.

“I look forward to adding my experience to the leadership team to help Sussex

Cricket to fulfil its potential in all areas, from the sport’s grassroots right up to the top echelons of the game.”

MO N TH LY N EWS SP O N SO R

Local relationship bank Handelsbanken reports record UK annual results Handelsbanken East Sussex reports increase in overall deposits and operating profits for the Bank Local relationship

Monthly News

bank Handelsbanken is today reporting its best ever UK

annual results for

2023. Following a year that has seen a challenging economic backdrop both

at home and abroad, Handelsbanken’s

relationship-driven model and emphasis on customer satisfaction has proved resilient, with the bank posting its

highest ever income, best ever operating result, and highest return on equity to

date. Results before credit losses were up by 59% year-on-year to a record

£480m, and the overall deposit book has increased. Total income also increased 32% to £918.2m.

Run by a team of 21 local bankers,

Handelsbanken East Sussex forms longterm, personal relationships with people

and businesses in the East Sussex area, working closely with local customers to

meet their financial needs, both in the short and longer term.

Simon Nicholson, branch manager of

Handelsbanken’s East Sussex branch

said: “Our record results reflect both the success of our unique business model, and our never-ending commitment to

customer satisfaction and cost control.

“We are continuously investing

in digital services to meet a clear

customer demand. At the same time, as a relationship bank we also know

our customers value the opportunity

to discuss their banking and wealthmanagement needs, face to face,

with people who know their financial

aspirations inside-out – and have their best interests at heart..

“Coupled with the fact that we have never used short-term incentives like sales

targets or bonuses, but empower our

colleagues to make the right decisions

for their customers, this has enabled us

to build long-term relationships based on the sustainable values of trust, respect and financial strength.

“We have always believed there is

demand for our relationship approach

and you need only look at the numbers

to see whether we are right. Not only are we able to post record results today, we also remain Europe’s safest commercial bank , top of the independent CMA

Business Banking survey for relationship

banking, and rated highest for customer satisfaction for the 15th year in a row, according to the EPSI ratings group .

We realise that the economic landscape is changing, but as we move into the

next financial year we are confident that our very strong position means we will be able to support our customers and help them to thrive, come what may.”

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 11

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Give the gift of financial peace of mind to your employees

Are your employees worried about their mortgage rates increasing OR trying to get on the property ladder?

Rob Starr, CEO of Seico Mortgages, Finance explains why offering a bespoke Financial Benefit Scheme to your Employees could strengthen the morale, goodwill, staff retention and feel-good culture within your business – at zero cost to you – the employer.

Outside of their work, one of the most stressful financial decisions your employees will have to make is likely to be related to their property. The main questions they will be asking themselves are “How will I ever be able to buy my own home?” or “How will I cope with the increased payments when my current deal runs out?”, which right now is on the mind of everyone who has a mortgage rate expiring within the next 12 months.

If you partner up with SEICO Mortgages then not only will you be helping your employees plan for their future, but you just might remove one of the biggest distractions that could be affecting their mood at work. I know first-hand from over 30 years at the helm of SEICO, that my employees’ home lives and stresses really can affect their performance at work. Whilst I do not have the answers to all their worries, I certainly can help them when it comes to their biggest expense, their Mortgage or rental costs.

Over the last 30-plus years, SEICO has set up employer partnerships with numerous companies to deliver a free service that is dedicated to helping their employees navigate the world of

12 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

mortgages. As well as offering personal

and independent advice, we are also able to monitor their existing mortgages for

them 24/7, so that they have the peace

of mind knowing that someone is looking out for them behind the scenes and

will let them know the moment savings

can be made. Providing this monitoring

service to your employees is completely free of charge and really will show them that you are looking out for them.

As a thank you for engaging with SEICO, we are also able to create a passive

income for you, the employer, for every time we have been able to help one

of your staff buy a new home or save money on their existing mortgage.

To find out more about our Employee

Benefit Schemes, please get in touch today on: 01273 778888

OR email: mortgages@seicogroup.com www.seicogroup.com

Mortgage Monitoring Service Make sure you never pay more than you have to, by signing up to our FREE mortgage monitoring service here:

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www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 13

FI N A NCE S PO NS O R

Empowered employees, engaged businesses: A dive into Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs) A feature by Alistair Aird, Corporate Finance Director at Carpenter Box. Imagine a world

Finance

where employees

aren’t just cogs in the machine but invested stakeholders in the

company’s success. Where their voices

are heard, their contributions valued and their efforts directly tied to the bottom

line. This isn’t a utopian fantasy; it’s the

real-world goal of Employee Ownership Trusts (EOTs), a unique model gaining

traction. In the UK, EOTs now represent

1 in 20 of all private company sales and the number is growing rapidly.

What is an EOT? An EOT is a special trust established to hold shares in a company on behalf of

its employees. It acts as a collective pot,

acquiring shares from existing owners and

14 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

holding them for the benefit of all current and future employees. Think of it as a

democratic shareholding platform, where employees don’t need to individually

invest, but are still able to reap the rewards of ownership collectively.

Benefits for everyone: A win-win situation

EOTs offer a multitude of benefits for both employees and shareholders.

For shareholders:

• Tax advantages: Selling shares to an

EOT can offer significant tax benefits for

shareholders. In the UK, the 20% capital gains tax is effectively eliminated.

•S ale process advantages: A quick, friendly, non-competitive, nonadversarial sale at a fair price

• Enhanced company performance: Studies have shown that employee-

owned companies tend to outperform their non-employee-owned

counterparts in terms of profitability, productivity, and innovation.

• Attracting and retaining talent: Companies with EOTs often find it

easier to attract and retain top talent

due to the unique ownership structure and its associated benefits.

For employees:

• Enhanced engagement and

motivation: Owning a stake, albeit a

virtual one, in the company fosters a

sense of belonging and responsibility.

Employees become more invested in the success of the business, leading

to increased engagement, productivity, profitability and innovation.

F I N A N C E SP O N SO R

• Shared profits and wealth creation: EOTs can distribute profits in various ways, like bonuses, dividends, or increased pension contributions, or other employee benefits like

private healthcare, for example. This translates to direct financial benefits

for employees, aligning their interests with the company’s performance.

• Improved decision-making and

transparency: EOTs often involve

employee representation on boards or committees, giving employees a

voice in decision-making. This fosters a culture of transparency and trust, leading to better-informed choices.

• Enhanced job security and succession planning: Employee ownership can

make companies more resilient and adaptable, potentially leading to

increased job security. Additionally,

EOTs offer a smooth succession plan for exiting shareholders, ensuring business continuity.

The EOT process: From concept to reality

1. Planning and preparation:

• Gather stakeholders: Get buy-in from shareholders (and as appropriate, key

employees). Agree a high-level vision for

the future of the company under an EOT.

• Legal and financial advice: Secure

experienced professional guidance on tax breaks and structure.

• Valuation: Hire independent experts to determine company value for share purchase.

• Funding: Plan how the EOT will pay for the shares (typically bank loans or deferred payments out of future profitability).

2. EOT establishment:

• Seek HMRC clearance: Get official approval for tax relief benefits.

• Draft Trust deed: Define rights,

responsibilities, and distribution of benefits.

• Appoint Trustees usually initially

made up of employee representatives, existing shareholders and an independent trustee.

3. Share purchase:

• Negotiate share price: Agree on a fair and sustainable purchase price.

• Execute share purchase agreement: Formalise the transfer of shares to the EOT.

4. Ongoing governance:

• Employee communication: Ensure all staff understand the EOT

Alistair Aird

structure and benefits.

• Board representation: Consider

employee representatives on the company board and EOT.

• Performance monitoring: Track

progress and adapt the EOT based on company growth.

5. Long-term commitment:

• Maintain controlling interest: The

EOT must hold over 50% of shares for tax benefits.

• Employee engagement: Foster a culture of shared ownership and responsibility.

• Exit strategy: Plan for future scenarios involving the EOT and its shares.

This is a simplified overview. Remember, seeking professional advice is crucial for a successful EOT implementation.

Who holds the keys? The role of trustees

EOTs operate under the guidance

of a separate board of trustees who

serve as independent advocates for

the employee shareholders. Unlike the company’s regular board of directors, their primary focus is to ensure the company’s leadership consistently

prioritises the collective well-being of employees. While not managing the

company directly, the trustees possess

the Board of Trustees should have a balanced composition representing different voices, typically covering employees, management and an

independent voice. They are responsible for safeguarding employee interests and providing oversight to the strategy and

financial health of the trading business.

EOTs: A model for the future Employee ownership trusts are more than just a financial structure; they

represent a shift in the traditional power

dynamics of businesses. By empowering employees and aligning their interests with the company’s success, EOTs hold the potential to create a more

engaged, productive, and sustainable

business landscape. As awareness and understanding of this model grows, we expect to see more companies

embracing employee ownership, paving

the way for a future where employees are not just workers, but valued stakeholders in the shared journey of success.

If you would like further information

or advice on setting up an Employee Ownership Trust for your business,

please get in touch with us on 01293

227670 or visit www.carpenterbox.com

oversight and intervention powers should the company’s actions deviate from

this employee-centric objective. Ideally,

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 15

LEGAL S PO NS O R

Employment law: equality and diversity in the modern workplace A feature written by Alex Jones, Managing Director of 365 Employment Law. As an employment

Legal

law specialist for

nearly 25 years, the issue of equality

and diversity in the

workplace has evolved over time, in terms of both the legal protections

afforded to workers, and the cultural

shift in attitudes to workplace equality.

Whilst those cultural attitudes have

evolved, for those workers who are on

the receiving end of discriminatory acts, it is often harder than ever, in practical terms, to enforce the rights they have.

Discrimination and the law

The rights that workers have in respect of

non-discrimination are under The Equality Act 2010. This piece of legislation, when

16 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

brought into law, largely combined the

various non-discrimination rights under

legislation such as the Sex Discrimination Act, Race Relations Act, and Disability Discrimination Act into one piece of legislation. Whilst it updated some

interpretations of rights, based on case

law, it was largely aimed at harmonising

the various rights that had been brought in over the previous 10 or so years.

The Equality Act provides protection from discrimination for workers, employees and, in some cases,

the self-employed, on grounds of nine “Protected Characteristics”, namely sex, race, disability, age,

religion and belief, sexual orientation, gender reassignment, marriage/civil

partnership and pregnancy/maternity.

For obvious reasons, some of those

protected characteristics apply to all, and some to qualifying workers i.e. disability, maternity, but the simple

position is that workers are protected from discrimination on grounds of

those protected characteristics. That discrimination applies to both direct

discrimination, which cannot be justified

in law, and indirect discrimination, which can only be objectively justified as a

defence. The rights relating to disability also have a duty, on the employer, to

make “reasonable adjustments”, and in respect of maternity rights, these

overlap with sex discrimination rights,

particularly in respect of flexible working.

Practical considerations

I often deal with employers who have

L EGA L SP ON SO R

had employment tribunal claims

brought against them for alleged acts

of discrimination. This is from both the

perspective of defending those claims, and bringing them for workers. Whilst

some acts of discrimination are aggressive and obvious, many are not, and some of the examples that I see are easily

avoidable. I have specifically seen the

following examples come up regularly: 1. “ But we have all of the Policies in place”

Employers often obsess over

policies, particularly relating to nondiscrimination. They spend a lot of

time putting them in place, and often train staff on them. This is where the problems start for them, because they then do not consider actual

discrimination in the workplace, the

triggers for it, and when it has taken

hold. I have often seen examples where despite obvious evidence of workplace discrimination, the employer often

refuses to accept it can be occurring,

because they have the policies in place that indicate it is not tolerated. It is

good practice for employers to bring in someone external, even on an annual

basis, to road test their policies through some practical examples.

2. “We have followed the Flexible Working Policy”

Subject to qualifying criteria, employees

have the right to request flexible working through a process set out in law. That process is only the right to request

flexible working, not have it granted.

Employers often, as a result of that,

have a silo mentality about a flexible

working request. If an employee requests flexible working, through the process or otherwise, and the reason for that

request is for a protected characteristic, the employer needs to engage with the reality of that request, and not rely on the process as being one of request

only. I have seen lots of examples where employers refuse a flexible working

request, because the process lets them,

for an extended period. With that in mind,

refusal could be discriminatory. This

constructive settlement discussions, but

of employees returning to work part

there for extended periods.

of reasonable adjustments as a result

Modern working

employee who had made a flexible

including remote working, was not

under the policy, that by it’s refusal was

Equality Act came into force. A specific

due to that employee’s disability, and

discrimination is needed, as without

final hearing, the employer could not

obligations differently, and conflicting

without understanding that any such

parties can often engage in practical and

is particularly prevalent over the issue

if that is not possible, the issue is often

time after maternity leave, or in respect of disability. I recently represented an

The issue of modern working practices,

working request, which had been refused

necessarily envisaged at the time the

a failure to make reasonable adjustments

update of the law as regards non-

therefore discriminatory. Even up to the

it, Employment Tribunals will interpret

understand how the discrimination had

legal authorities will arise.

Flexible Working request process.

Conflicts of discrimination

3. “ We treat everyone the same”

two employees, or groups of employees,

arisen, when they had complied with the

Employers may face situations where

The whole purpose of discrimination

assert conflicting positions and both

I see a number of employers who have

ultra religious employee who has an

the same, which then causes indirect

a female employee who takes issue

flexible working and everyone is treated

discrimination and the law is often

the lift to the third floor, and everyone

the true reality of both the situations

type of positioning is classic indirect

situations. Whilst strong beliefs are

everyone is equal, but in practice, it

in their application, but conversely,

of their protected characteristic. In law,

against for having those beliefs,

legislation, is to even the playing field.

allege discrimination. For example, an

a starting position of treating everyone

issue with same sex relationships, or

discrimination e.g. “we don’t have

with a transgender employee. Conflict

equally”, or “we don’t need to maintain

presented differently in the media, than

is expected to take the stairs.” This

concerned, and how the law treats those

discrimination i.e. on the face of it,

protected, they cannot be discriminatory

affects one minority group on grounds

employees cannot be discriminated

indirect discrimination can of course be

provided they are not extreme.

to think about that in advance.

The simple position is that employers who

Enforcement issues

and how they work in practice, will always

objectively justified, but employers need

consider discrimination issues in advance,

Whilst the position in law is one of

be better placed than those who don’t!

of resolution for both employer and

Please always take advice on any staff

complicated. The Court and Tribunal

Tel: 01903 863284

a decade of cuts, and it can be up to a

www.365employmentlaw.co.uk

protection for employees, and a means employees, the practical reality is more

related issues.

system has been brought to it’s knees by

ajones@365employmentlaw.co.uk

year before even basic employment rights come before an Employment Tribunal.

This is not ideal for either employees or

employers, as the issue hangs over them

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 17

Forthcoming changes to Company Law - what you need to know Written by Edward Coxall, Partner at Mayo Wynne Baxter.

The Economic Crime

Legal

and Corporate

Transparency Act

2023 was passed at the end of last year

and is the Government’s response to

tackle the use of the UK’s corporate and business sectors for criminal activities, building on legislation introduced in

2022, following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine. If you have read the word

“crime” and thought this doesn’t apply to you, then please read on!

18 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

The legislation aims to deliver reforms on tackling economic crime and improving transparency over corporate entities to drive confidence in the UK economy.

One of the key aims is to improve the accuracy and quality of the data on

the UK’s public registers, which it will do by introducing several changes to

Company Law over the next few years.

As one might expect from the title of such an Act the changes are

diverse, but this article will focus on

those changes affecting all corporate businesses, the first of which will be introduced from 4th March 2024.

To improve the quality of data there

will be greater powers for Companies House to query information, stronger

checks on company names, new rules

for registered office addresses, and new lawful purpose statements:

• t he Registrar will have greater powers

to query and challenge information that

L EGA L SP ON SO R

• c ompanies must, at all times, have an

‘appropriate address’ as their registered office which is one where documents

sent to the registered office should be

expected to come to the attention of a

person acting on behalf of the company,

• a nd can be recorded by an

acknowledgement of delivery. Thus,

PO Boxes will no longer be acceptable.

If a company’s registered office is not

appropriate, Companies House will be

Edward Coxall

able to change it to a default address, held at Companies House.

• a ll companies will need to provide a

registered email address which will not be available to the public, but which will be used by Companies House

to communicate with the company.

New companies will need to give a

registered email address when they

incorporate and existing companies will need to give a registered email address when they file their next confirmation

statement, with a statement date from 5 March 2024 onwards.

•w hen incorporating a company, the appears to be incorrect or inconsistent

with information held and if a company does not respond to a formal request from Companies House for more

information there will be new powers to:

• i mpose financial penalties.

• a nnotate the company’s record.

• b ring prosecutions.

• a n identity verification process will

be introduced for new companies,

such that all directors and people with significant control (PSCs) will need to

verify their identity using ID documents.

• s tronger checks on company names which give a false or misleading

impression to the public will help to

improve the accuracy and quality of the data held and help to tackle the misuse of company names.

subscribers will need to confirm they are forming the company for a lawful purpose and a company will also

need to confirm its intended future activities are lawful, on the annual confirmation statement.

The filing of accounts by software only will be phased in over the next 2 to 3 years and all companies will need to

find suitable software before web-based and paper filing options are no longer available. The accounts filing options

for small and micro-entity companies

are changing and they will also need to

file their profit and loss accounts. Small companies that do not qualify as micro

entities will also need to file a directors’ report. Finally, any company claiming

an audit exemption will need to give an

which exemption is being claimed and confirm that the company qualifies for the exemption.

The Act will also seek to make

company ownership more transparent with measures which will require companies to:

• r ecord the full names of shareholders

who are individuals – or the full names of corporate members and firms – in their registers.

• p rovide a one-off full shareholder list so Companies House can display

shareholder information in a more user-friendly way.

There will also be restrictions on the use of corporate directors and only UK corporate entities with ‘legal personality’ will be able to be appointed as corporate directors.

The directors of these corporate directors must be natural persons who must verify

their identity under the new procedures for identity verification.

Finally, to fund the cost of the powers

and reforms in the new Act, Companies House fees will be increasing in 2024.

Further details can be found at Changes to UK company law

Ecoxall@mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

additional statement from their directors on the balance sheet specifying

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 19

GR OWTH S PO NS O R

Loch Associates Group expands into East Sussex, opening an office in Eastbourne The Group already had offices in Brighton, Tunbridge Wells and London before expanding to Eastbourne as a result of continued growth in the region. It has seen its turnover and headcount double in just three years.

The rapid expansion

Growth

is a direct result of Loch Associates Group being the only business in

the Sussex area to offer such a range of multiple services under one roof, including HR, Legal, Training and Wellbeing and Mediation, to help

organisations manage their staff while protecting their business.

Loch Law has appointed Victoria

Regan as a Partner, and she will head up the team in the South Coast. She

brings with her more than 20 years of employment law experience and she was previously a partner at another

Sussex-based firm, where she was head of their Employment Department and

20 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

managed their team of HR Consultants.

Loch Associates also welcomes Ella

Lewthwaite, who will be joining Victoria

as a Paralegal at the Eastbourne office.

The Eastbourne office, located opposite

Eastbourne Marina, can cater for around

10 employees. Loch Associates Group is looking to support the local community by adding additional local staff as it

pursues its ambitious growth plans.

Pam Loch, Solicitor and Managing

Director of Loch Associates Group,

said: “Over the years we have evolved Loch Associates Group to be a multidisciplinary business with a wealth of expertise in helping organisations to

manage and nurture their people and

protect their business. The new office

really helps Loch Associates Group

cement its position in Sussex, where we are witnessing continued growth.”

Regarding Loch Law’s new Partner, Pam said: “Victoria is a leading

individual in employment law and HR and her expertise and experience

will ensure we are providing the best

service to our clients as we continue to offer an extensive range of solutions to meet our clients’ needs.

“Our continued expansion is largely

enabled by our growing reputation as a trusted alternative to traditional law firms and being able to offer such a

wide range of services to businesses under one roof, something that is unique in the Southeast.”

A series of free webinars aimed at helping businesses move through the building blocks to create a great business SESSION 1: THE STARTING BLOCKS February 20th, 9-10am Building a strong team is essential if you want to build a successful business, but recruiting staff is a challenging task. During this session, we’ll cover:

BY

• What role do you need to fill?

How will you comply with the law?

• What do you need to do when you’ve found ‘the one’?

• What should onboarding involve?

• What if it doesn’t work out?

Book your place today 020 3667 5400

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 21

Solving your people puzzles

Finding the right new hire for your business is always tricky. Rubix Recruitment is here to help.

Some puzzles are

Cover Story

insanely difficult to solve. Not

everyone can do a Rubik’s cube in a

few seconds or swiftly complete The Times’ crossword. Sometimes we

need help solving problems, and this certainly applies to recruitment.

For businesses seeking the perfect

puzzle piece to complete their team or individuals on the lookout for

their next career adventure, Rubix

Recruitment stands ready to solve those people puzzles.

Rubix Recruitment is the brainchild of

experienced recruiter James Naylor and Rubix Group owner Nick Poyner and is

22 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

set to offer a fresh option for companies

seeking their ideal talent and candidates searching their dream role.

James, a seasoned recruiter with an impressive track record, recognised

the need for a recruitment agency that

goes beyond the conventional, offering personalised solutions tailored to the unique needs of both employers and

job seekers. Nick, as the owner of the Rubix Group of companies, brings a

wealth of entrepreneurial acumen and a commitment to excellence.

The mission

James Naylor is clear about the mission behind the new agency: “Our approach is to offer a bespoke experience to employers and candidates alike.

“We have made the decision to recruit across multiple sectors and seniority

levels. For us, it is all about the people, not their job title.

“When we find motivated and diligent people looking for work, we offer a

genuinely personal service. It is our

mission to place in environments where they will thrive.

“The same applies to employers. We are determined to find people that will make a difference to an organisation.

“Leave the hard work to us. It is what we do best.”

A comprehensive recruitment strategy Rubix Recruitment understands that

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

no two businesses are alike. Hence, the

approach is anything but one-size-fits-all.

During in-depth consultations with clients, the agency seeks to understand the

unique DNA of each company, creating a customised recruitment strategy that aligns with organisational goals. This

bespoke approach not only streamlines the hiring process but also ensures that

businesses receive candidates who not

only meet but exceed their expectations.

Commitment to excellence

Having navigated the recruitment

landscape for years, James Naylor brings a personal touch to Rubix Recruitment.

His commitment to excellence extends

beyond merely filling job vacancies – he aims to foster lasting partnerships.

James believes that understanding a company’s culture is paramount,

and this philosophy permeates every

aspect of Rubix Recruitment. His goal is not just to solve immediate hiring

needs but to contribute to the longterm success of his clients.

Accessing the hidden market

If you don’t use a recruitment agency

when you are looking for new talent or

when you want to find a new role, there is a good chance you miss out. Not

every job is advertised and not every

potential candidate is advertising their

availability. Often the job opening didn’t even exist, or the candidate wasn’t actually looking for a move.

How is this possible? Simple. If you

are seeking work, we ‘spec’ you into a company where we know you will be

a good fit. They might not be actively recruiting, but having the offer of an

ideal team member can be too good an opportunity to pass up.

If you are advertising for a position, we know where to find your ideal

candidate. Who doesn’t like being offered a better paying job?

Transparent and open

Get in touch!

Recruitment’s values. From the initial

If you are an employer - Our services

clients are kept in the loop with clear

recruit the very best talent, possessing

The agency believes in building long-

needed to drive growth in your business.

integrity. Employers can expect a

If you are looking for a new role -

process, while job seekers can rest

are here to help you find the role that

Transparency is at the core of Rubix consultation to the final placement,

are specifically designed to help you

communication and regular updates.

the skills, experience and core attributes

term relationships based on trust and seamless and transparent recruitment

Let us be your job search partner. We

assured knowing they are receiving

is right for you.

throughout their journey.

Rubix Recruitment

Community-centric approach

Mobile: 07885301064

honest and constructive feedback

Tel: 01273 120417

Rubix Recruitment is committed to

james.naylor@rubixrecruitment.uk

community. Sister company Rubix VT has

Rubix Recruitment is part of the Rubix

being an integral part of the Brighton

www.rubixrecruitment.uk

always actively supported local charities

Group of companies.

and good causes, and Rubix Recruitment will be no different. This communitycentric approach is not just about

recruitment; it’s about contributing to the

growth and vibrancy of the local economy.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 23

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

It’s all happening at Rubix VT

It has been a very busy few months at the Brighton-based telecoms business, with new hires and more community activity…

Rubix Team grows

Rubix VT has announced five new additions to its fast-growing team in Brighton.

The new team members will support Rubix VT’s success as it expands its reach with further acquisitions of SME telecoms providers.

The business has welcomed Business Development

Manager Dean Gilbert, who will focus on managing Rubix VT’s growing client base, alongside projects manager Dorian Tomaszewski, who will be supporting a busy schedule throughout 2024.

24 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Nicole Nicholson joins as business analyst, Pilar Monteiro as

marketing executive and Natalie Hilton as executive assistant.

Nick Poyner, managing director of Rubix VT, said: “We’re

delighted we have expanded our team with these talented people.

“It’s a great time to join us as we’ve recently welcomed a host

of new clients. It’s an exciting period of growth for our business and we cannot wait to build on our success this year.”

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

Together with Together Co Loneliness is a silent modern-day epidemic, which so often

At Rubix VT, we are keen to support the great work of Together

the societal impacts are profound, affecting mental and

are very pleased to announce that we are providing Together

goes unreported. Beyond the emotional toll on individuals, physical health, productivity, and overall well-being.

Co, and we decided to use our own expertise to help. So, we Co with our business telecoms services for free.

Creating a more connected and supportive society should

A phone call can make the world of difference to someone

happier future.

the best possible telecoms set-up. We will be looking to work

be viewed as an essential component of a healthier and

There is an amazing charity based in Brighton that creates

connections to change lives. Together Co does this through its befriending, social prescribing and volunteering services

who feels isolated, so we want to ensure that Together Co has together with Together Co in other ways in 2024.

Find out more - togetherco.org.uk

in Brighton, Hove and beyond, and by sharing ideas and expertise nationally.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 25

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

Doing things by half

The starter’s gun is being loaded for the Rubix VT Brighton Half Marathon, which takes place at 9.30am on Sunday 25th February.

This is the first year of Rubix VT’s three-year sponsorship of this popular event, with over 10,000 runners taking part.

Nick Poyner, Managing Director at Rubix VT, commented: “The Brighton Half Marathon is a fantastic community event with an

incredible heritage with fundraising and charity very much at its

New website Rubix VT has launched its new-look website, with a lively contemporary design and style.

In line with the company’s mission to keep things simple, the new site has easier navigation and intuitive signposting.

Take a look at rubixvt.com

26 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

core. An opportunity to support The Sussex Beacon and all the other amazing charities that participate in the event was such an easy decision to make.”

Come down to Brighton seafront on the 25th and support the runners!

C OV ER STO RY SP ON SO R

Rubix VT announces an exciting new partnership…

“We are often asked if we can supply IT services as well as telecoms. The same applies to print management. It can be tempting to say YES! “We are often asked if we can supply IT services as well as telecoms. The same applies to print management. It can be tempting to say YES!

“We have a talented team of technicians and engineers, and we are quite handy with our computers and printers. So, why not have a one-stop shop for all your business needs?

“However, we truly believe that you will get

a better IT and print management service if you go to genuine experts in their field.

“The same applies to telecoms. An IT company may be able to set up your

phones on Teams, but there are far more flexible and efficient ways of setting up

your telecoms. So, the answer is simple.

“We have teamed up with the region’s leading IT and print management

providers: Extech Cloud and MPS Group (who also are leading suppliers of office furniture, office supplies and work wear). We will be referring and recommending our clients to these excellent businesses, and they will be doing the same in return.

“Why does this benefit your business?

Quite simply, we are all used to working together and we can ensure your phones, computers and print work in harmony – in the safe hands of experience specialist professionals.

“We want our clients to get the best possible service, which is why we work with the best!” https://mpsbusiness.co.uk/ https://extechcloud.com

The Starr Trust is Rubix VT Charity of the Year 2024 As in 2023, The Starr Trust will be the Rubix VT charity of the year.

Rubix VT firmly supports The Starr Trust’s mission to remove

roadblocks for young people to help them succeed and thrive in whatever they put their minds to.

At the end of 2023, Rob Starr, Chairman and Founder of The

Starr Trust, said: “It has been a remarkable year for The Starr Trust, and I’d like to express our profound gratitude to Rubix VT for its unwavering support.

“Its sponsorship of key events, such as our Celebration Night of Great Heights at the i360 and the Bristol to Brighton Bike Ride, alongside generous backing for our Winter Extravaganza, has been integral to our success. Its commitment to continue this support into 2024 promises a bright future for our charity and the lives we touch.

“With Rubix VT’s aid, we’ve witnessed heartening transformations within our community.”

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 27

COVE R STO RY S P ON S OR

Reclaim your work-life balance Go Giraffe allows you to take business calls on your mobile – when you want to!

We live our lives at

Cover Story

such a frenetic pace, it can be hard to

relax. If you are taking business calls in the

evenings and over the weekend, it is impossible to switch off.

It is so easy to take control of your calls – all you need is a telecoms mobile app from Go Giraffe.

It is so simple.

Download the app and you instantly add an extra phone number to your mobile.

28 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

It can be your existing business number

Added to this, you can add multiple

you. You can choose the area code (eg.

transfers and diverts. There’s no need

or you can get a new one – it’s up to

phone functions to your mobile such as

Brighton 01273) or even choose a non-

for a desk phone – everything is on your

geographic prefix (eg. 03).

mobile or laptop.

Once you have two (or more) numbers

And the best news of all – the monthly

on your mobile, then you are in control.

price starts at £7.95+vat.

business number and send calls straight

With Go Giraffe, business telecoms is

You can set up opening hours for your

to an answerphone outside these times.

It’s your choice.

Separating your personal and business

calls means you can decide on your own work/life balance.

now available to everyone.

Order your app at gogiraffe.co.uk

Are you ready to Go Giraffe?

Separate personal and business calls Add a landline number to your mobile Transfer and divert calls Turn your mobile into a business phone From £7.95/month No Contracts!

gogiraffe.co.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 29

H R & PEO PL E MANAG E M E NT S P ON S OR

Neurodiversity in the workplace – great minds don’t all think alike It is thought that more than 10% of the population are neurodiverse – including your customers, your friends and family… your employees.

Neurodiversity

HR

refers to those with cognitive functions

that differ from what is traditionally seen

as neurotypical. It may affect how they think, how they process the world

around them, and their interactions.

Conditions like dyslexia, dyspraxia,

autism and ADHD are all examples, and there are more.

Traditionally, these have been thought of as an obstacle, something to fix.

But that is changing. Everyone is different, everyone has strengths

30 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

and weaknesses and those who are neurodiverse have much to offer.

Recognising this now could give you an extra competitive advantage.

How can you benefit from embracing neurodiversity in your workforce?

Like other forms of diversity, embracing neurodiversity comes with a host of

benefits for employers keen to make it work. These include:

• More innovative, more creative – When you form a team of people with

different backgrounds, characteristics

and skills it gives you more chance to be innovative as new ideas and ways of working go into the melting pot.

• Less risk of group think – The

converse is also true. By having a

broader base of people on a team, it

reduces the risk of group think where

poor decisions are made because of a lack of perspective.

• Skills matches – People with

neurodiversity can be very suited

to specific roles. For example, one

bank found that autistic workers were up to 50% more productive than

H R & P EO P L E M A N AGEM EN T SP O N SO R

neurotypical colleagues in the same technology department.

• Widening your talent pool – If you

are struggling to recruit, simply giving off the signal that you welcome

neurodiverse candidates may help you widen your talent pool and solve your recruiting issues.

• Connecting with a wider customer

base – Diversity in any form can help you connect with, and appeal to,

more customers, who see themselves reflected in your business.

Managing neurodiverse employees for success

Managing people who are neurodiverse does not have to be a huge additional burden, but it may require some

adjustments. Studies in America found

that nearly 60% of common adjustments actually cost nothing to the employer.

Here are some general areas of management to consider:

The sensory environment Some traits of neurodiverse conditions may include sensory overload. For

example, greater difficulty operating in

a noisy, open-plan workplace. Consider how you can give employees who need

it a calmer environment, such as a quiet room, flexible working options, or even some noise-cancelling headphones.

Skills matching There is often a bias towards hiring generalists who can do everything

reasonably well, but there is a lot to be said for defining job roles more

clearly to attract people with niche

skills. Restructuring workflows to allow specialists to perform specialist roles could be a game changer for your business’s productivity.

Nothing is guaranteed, but by way

of example, research suggests that

ways of interacting with the world –

jobs that require a lot of concentration

contact difficult. Creating an environment

analytical thinking. Dyslexic people

accepts that these differences are nothing

qualitative reasoning while those with

neurodiverse people feel welcomed and

some autistic people are better at

perhaps struggling socially, like finding eye

and others at problem-solving and

where everyone understands this and

may excel in creative roles and

personal, will go a long way to making

dyspraxia may be great strategists.

comfortable on your team.

Avoid labelling

Want to find out more for your

While there is a benefit to recognising

business?

think too rigidly. It is not a cliché to

If you are interested in the ideas we have

even if two people share the same

you can gain competitive advantage

neurodiversity, this will diminish if you accept that everyone is different, and

discussed and would like to find out how

neurodiverse ‘label’ it does not mean they

by embracing neurodiversity in your

will share the same skillsets or needs.

business, please get in touch with us.

Processing information

The HR Dept is now the UK’s

Everyone will have their preferred

providing outsourced HR support.

employees can particularly struggle

to established brands, across all

dyslexic people may struggle with

delivering cost-effective employment

dyspraxia may find it difficult when

leave you free to concentrate on

largest network of HR professionals

ways of learning, and neurodiverse

Our clients vary, from tiny start-ups

where others can manage. For instance,

industries. We pride ourselves on

written instructions while those with

law advice and HR solutions that

given lots of different tasks at once.

growing your business.

information in formats they are comfortable

Your local HR Dept Office is HR Dept,

with is usually a simple workaround.

Sussex-by-the Sea:

Creating an inclusive environment

SBTSinfo@hrdept.co.uk

Neurodiversity can come with different

www.hrdept.co.uk

Being understanding of this and offering

Tel: 01323 403500 or 01243 214404

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 31

CH A RITY S PO NS O R

‘Wellbeing in the Workplace’ event includes Olympian as keynote speaker Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and Flexibility Matters are hosting a brand-new event in Brighton with workplace experts and gold-medallist Sally Gunnell OBE. Wellbeing in the

Charity

Workplace will include a panel section

with experts talking

about different facets

of wellbeing at work. HR, law, staff

engagement, psychology and CSR will all be represented - and it will be great for anyone with an interest in, or with

responsibility for, the wellbeing of their staff team.

There will be panellists from Sussex 4 Day Week, Elekta, Float Spa, Stratus

Coaching and Acumen Business Law, as

32 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

well as table discussions hosted by Myla

Health, Little Jasmine Therapies and Spa and The Agora Clinic with more to be

announced. The event will be held at the

famous Brighton i360 on the 21 February.

Attendees will have the opportunity to

‘ask the expert’ about various aspects of

the impact of wellbeing in the workplace.

The event also includes Sally Gunnell as

the keynote speaker. Sally won the 1992 Olympic gold medal in the 400 metres hurdles. During a golden 24-month

period, between 1992 and 1994, Sally won every international event open to

her, claiming Olympic Games, World

Championship, European Championship, Commonwealth Games, Goodwill

Games, IAAF World Cup and European

Cup golds in the event, and breaking the

British, European and World records in it!

Sally is a supporter of Rockinghorse Children’s Charity and a wellbeing

expert. She will share her insights and

experiences in how wellbeing impacts performance at the event.

Sally said: “I’m thrilled to be

supporting Rockinghorse Children’s

C HA R I TY SP O N SO R

Charity as keynote speaker for Wellbeing in The Workplace.

“My mission is to provide companies with life-changing solutions, for life-

changing health. I work in partnership with organisations to assess the

overall health of their employees and

then design and implement a program to address these issues.

“In this way, I can help make real and lasting change in productivity and

performance by sharing the lessons I

have learned on the track and provide insights on ways to improve mental and physical resilience.”

Donna Holland said: “At Rockinghorse, we know and understand the

importance of wellbeing for children,

parents and staff. Every day we work

with doctors and nurses to improve the wellbeing of sick and disabled children

and their families. Supporting wellbeing

responsible for the wellbeing of their staff, their teams and their business, it’s an area that is vital to success.

Employees’ wellbeing plays an important role in the workplace, with 67% of employees saying they experience moderate to high levels of stress and 72% of staff saying that ensuring wellbeing is the top priority for managers.

“This event will bring together experts in the field to share insights and experience, and to look at best practices in all aspects of Wellbeing in the Workplace.”

Emma Cleary, Director of Flexibility Matters, agreed with the importance of looking after staff wellbeing, adding: “Flexibility Matters has been championing flexible working as a benefit to attracting and retaining brilliant people for over 10 years.

“Allowing individuals to balance their

helps children get better faster, helps

health, mental and physical, caring and

families are facing and enables staff to

business demands. We categorically

parents cope with the difficulties their

other priorities in combination with their

care for children more effectively.

believe, and research endorses, that it is

“Wellbeing affects us all, and for those

way to live and work for all.”

a happier, healthier, and more productive

While many businesses already have wellbeing strategies in place, they can always be improved. The event is targeted at CEOs, MDs and HR directors of companies across Sussex with an interest in wellbeing in the workplace and how they can do more for the people that work with them.

This event will enable attendees to: • Explore the links between work, health and wellbeing.

• Learn more about the role of stakeholders in adopting an organisational approach to employee wellbeing.

• Understand how fostering employee wellbeing is good for people and the organisation.

• Learn about how promoting wellbeing can help prevent stress and create positive working environments where individuals and organisations can thrive.

• Learn about how good health and wellbeing can be a core enabler of employee engagement, as well as individual and organisational performance.

To get your tickets, just visit the Rockinghorse website here: www. rockinghorse.org.uk/events

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 33

34 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 35

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Webtrends Optimize extends partnership with Sussex Cricket and Sussex Cricket Foundation

The brand has become principal partner of Super 9s, D40 and Visually Impaired teams.

Sussex Cricket

Networking & Events

and Sussex

Cricket Foundation are delighted to announce that

Webtrends Optimize has extended its

sponsorship of all of Sussex’s Disability teams for another four years, whilst

also increasing its presence at The 1st Central County Ground.

The new four-year deal will see the

company’s logo worn on the front and

back of all disability teams’ match kits As a Community Partner, the brand will now also become the headline sponsor of the Sussex Cricket

36 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Foundation’s annual fundraiser, ‘DIScoverABILITY Day’

The market-leading technology company will also have its own corporate box located at The 1st Central Ground

After initially becoming a corporate

partner of Sussex Cricket in 2020, the relationship has gone from strength

to strength in the past four years, with

Webtrends Optimize first becoming shirt sponsors for the Sussex D40 (Disability Cricket) Sussex Sharks VI (Visually

Impaired) squads in 2022 and 2023.

That partnership was extended again in April 2023 to also include the

Sussex Super 9s team.

The continued support from the

technology company has enabled

participation in disability cricket in Sussex to grow, year on year.

Sussex Cricket Foundation Community Cricket Director, Gary Wallis-Tayler,

said: “We are extremely grateful for the support from Webtrends Optimize and

delighted that they have committed to a further four-year partnership.

“The continued support provides our County Disability Teams and annual DIScoverABILITY Day with further financial security, enabling us to

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

continue growing and developing our disability player pathway, whilst also providing opportunities for disability participants to fulfil their potential.”

Matt Smith, CEO of Webtrends

Optimize, shared his excitement on the extension of the partnership,

saying: “I am delighted to continue our partnership with Sussex Cricket and the Sussex Cricket Foundation for a further four years.

“Cricket is something that has always been close to the heart of many of us

here at Webtrends Optimize, and with three of our directors calling Sussex

home, we feel that additional bond to the club and area too.

Matt Smith

Sussex Cricket matchday experience

an ‘all-inclusive’ model - all tools and

excellent work the Foundation does

our team here at Webtrends Optimize.”

no tiers, paywalls or upgrades required

cricket accessible to all, and being able

About Webtrends Optimize

own small way makes me very proud.

Webtrends Optimize is an unrestricted,

Optimize, visit:

“We can’t wait to continue to share the

Rate Optimisation (CRO) platform with

com/about-us/

“I love seeing the results of the

in creating opportunities and making

to support and contribute to that in our

with our partners, clients and, of course,

full-stack A/B Testing and Conversion

features are available to everyone with to access anything.

To find out more about Webtrends https://www.webtrends-optimize.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 37

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

HERSTORY III - International Women’s Month #Inspireinclusion Every year during March, in the UK and across the globe, we celebrate International Women’s Month. This initiative was established over one hundred years ago, as part of the women’s movement to support and promote equality for women.

Women’s Month

Networking & Events

provides a great

opportunity for women as well as businesses and communities

to come together to inspire, educate

and discuss our successes, as well as

on-going social and economic barriers.

Why? To build a diverse, inclusive, and equal playing field for all.

In recent years, this movement

has highlighted the importance of

representation in business and encouraged change to support this. Recent statistics indicate that the number of female-led

businesses is rising steadily. According to the Office for National Statistics (ONS), in 2020, there were around 1.7 million selfemployed women in the UK.

The Federation of Small Businesses

(FSB) reported that women accounted

for around a third of all entrepreneurs in the UK. However, female entrepreneurs often faced challenges in securing

average, women earned 84.5 pence for

funding. Reports also indicated that a

every pound earned by men.

funding went to women-led startups

HERSTORY

smaller percentage of venture capital compared to those led by men.

There are women in business in

Although progress is being made,

our community, making history by

leadership positions. A report by Grant

achieving the unachieved. Their

32% of senior management roles in the

challenge limitations, break down social

women are still underrepresented in

representing in their fields, and

Thornton in 2021 found that women held

presence and stories inspire us to

UK. The gender pay gap continues to

barriers and inspire change.

business. In 2021, statistics gathered

To support this, Prior Media &

UK was around 15.5%. Meaning that, on

of businesses to host ‘Herstory III’ -

be an undermining factor for women in indicated that the gender pay gap in the

38 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Marketing has teamed up with a range

a networking event and conference

which takes place on Thursday 14th

March 2024 at The Ironworks Studios in Brighton.

Herstory III consists of networking, an empowering workshop led by award-

winning and internationally recognised motivational speaker Harry Singha,

and panel discussion moderated and

covered by local & national broadcaster Latest TV, featuring some of Sussex’s leading businesswomen.

The topic of this year’s event is

‘Embracing Strength, Achieving

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

Greatness’ and a powerful, diverse panel of business and community

leaders will come together to discuss their experiences along with the

importance of pursuing what can be seen to be unachievable. Panellist includes:

• Paige Collins FCA - Expert

Accountant and Partner at Warren House Accountants

• Angela Arnold - Property Lawyer & Partner at Rix & Kay Solicitors

• Emma Draper - Entrepreneur and Owner of Velvet Hove

• Anita Grant - ACO at Sussex Police

•M att Turner - Entrepreneur and CEO

corporate reputation and encourage

This event provides us an opportunity

Tickets are just £66 and available via

of Creative Pod

motivation internally.

to celebrate women in business,

Eventbrite.

in essential business skills, and gain

https://www.eventbrite.

communicate existing barriers, invest confidence from fellow counterparts.

Business support for women in

co.uk/e/herstory-iii-tickets-

794405768037?aff=oddtdtcreator

business is not just a matter of

This event is sponsored by Ridgeview,

imperative that can bring numerous

Warren House Accountants, Sussex

actively support gender equality and

Silicon Brighton, Ironworks Studios, IT

social responsibility; it is a strategic

Velvet Hove, Rix & Kay Solicitors,

benefits to companies. Businesses that

Business Times magazine, Latest TV,

women’s empowerment build a positive

Document Solutions and Creative Pod.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 39

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Acumen Business Convention: 14 years of igniting excellence and limitless horizons Prepare for a supreme business experience as the heart of Brighton gears up for the 14th annual Acumen Business Convention - the dynamic and high-energy event that has firmly established itself as a staple in the business community of the South East.

300 business leaders at the 2023 Acumen Business Convention

With a rich history of

Networking & Events

success, this year’s convention is yet

again expected to fill

the Empress Suite to

the brim at the Grand Hotel, Brighton, on the 23rd of May 2024 with 300 business leaders and decision makers.

The Acumen Business Convention

has been a driving force behind the region’s business networking for a decade and a half. Year after year,

40 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

the event has consistently raised

the bar, earning a reputation as an essential event for professionals

looking to make meaningful business

connections, connect with peers, and gain valuable insights.

Keynote speaker: a media giant Prepare to be captivated by the

charisma and business Acumen of this years’ keynote speaker, the one and

only Jamie Laing! The force behind the

globally renowned confectionery brand Candy Kittens and founder of podcast production agency JamPot, Laing will

share his insights, experiences and the secrets to his success that you won’t find anywhere else.

The convention’s diverse line-up also includes Ted Jackson, an extreme

explorer who captured the world by

conquering seven marathons on seven continents in just seven days; Marc

Convey, a survivor of a tragic fire, will

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

Acumen Business Convention 2024 Keynote Speaker: Jamie Laing, Founder of Candy Kittens and Jampot Productions. share his powerful story of overcoming adversity and finding success, offering a unique perspective on resilience and

tenacity in the face of life’s challenges; Carole Gaskell, a leader in the field

of personnel development and team

profiling, will impart invaluable insights

on embracing colleagues and customers you encounter on the intricate journey of business growth backed up by a simple yet effective persona examination;

and, of course, Penina Shepherd, the

Founder of Acumen Law, will bring her wealth of business expertise to the

forefront. If you were there last year

then you know that Penina’s talks are renowned in moving the delegates to

tears! Keep an eye out for what she has prepared this year…

High energy, meaningful connections This stellar line up of speakers will

Live entertainment at the Acumen Business Convention 2023

be complemented by the popular

been a beacon of excellence in

sessions, where business heroes

and this milestone edition promises

and give a well-rounded perspective

The exceptional line-up of speakers,

entrepreneurship. This event is not

opportunities and surprises in store,

business relationships that last a

professional can afford to miss,” said

TEDx-style Speakers’ Arena breakout

networking for the past 14 years,

will share their stories of success

to be the most memorable one yet.

on various aspects of business and

combined with the networking

just about attending; it’s about forging

makes this an event that no business

lifetime and can reshape the trajectory

Penina Shepherd, CEO and founder of

of your business.

Acumen Law.

As ever, the exceptional array of

Tickets selling fast

opportunities will be interspersed with

This sell-out event’s reputation

magic, all crafted and designed to

and with hundreds of tickets already

wowed and inspired! From interactive

your chance to be part of the most

moment will be a delight.

Brighton. Secure your tickets before

“Acumen Business Convention has

Acumenbusinessconvention.co.uk

speakers and unparalleled networking surprises and sprinkled with Acumen

precedes it, selling out every year

elevate your experience and keep you

claimed for 2024 so don’t miss

sessions to exclusive giveaways, every

anticipated business gathering in

they vanish by checking out www.

“Acumen Business Convention has been a beacon of excellence in networking for the past 14 years, and this milestone edition promises to be the most memorable one yet”

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 41

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

February Big Business Breakfast Club guest speaker is Toby Moore The event is being sponsored by JPS Wealth Management.

Join the Big

Networking & Events

Business Breakfast Club (BBBC) on

Friday 16th February at the iconic Grand

hotel. The BBBC team will be on hand

Guest speaker - Toby Moore, Creator of TEDx Brighton

Toby helps people experience more creative freedom in their work.

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity was set up in 1967 by Dr Trevor Mann as

the official fundraising arm of the Royal

Alexandra Children’s Hospital in Brighton.

It raises money to provide life-saving

to facilitate any introductions and, as

He is the author of:

medical equipment and additional

will be there with his marketing hints

• MAKE IT - How to work with clarity,

lives of sick children throughout Sussex.

always, Alex Ryan from Marketing 101 and tips.

The room will remain open after

breakfast so that attendees have plenty of time to connect with like-minded business people in the room.

Sponsor - JPS Wealth Management St. James’s Place is an established

name in the financial services industry and is one of the UK’s leading wealth management organisations. It has a strong track record of providing

comprehensive and tailored wealth

management solutions and manages client funds in excess of £143.14bn.

42 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

confidence and creativity

•T rust at Scale - The content strategy for creative people

Seasonally, Toby works on TEDx

Brighton, which is now one of the largest TEDx events in the UK.

services with the aim of improving the

The BBBC team looks forward to seeing

you on Friday 16th February. Tickets will sell out, so book in advance.

Book here: https://www.

bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk/ If you are interested in learning more

He also holds a few different roles to

about becoming a sponsor of the BBBC,

creative people at The Hummingbird

team@bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk

help build better futures for young and Refugee Project, Water Bear College of

Music and BYC (Brighton Youth Centre).

Sponsor’s nominated charity –

Rockinghorse Children’s Charity

please get in touch with the team at

N ETWO R K I N G & EV EN TS SP O N SO R

ALL BREAKFASTS 8-10am JANUARY

FEBRUARY

MARCH

APRIL

The Old Ship Hotel

19th

The Grand

16th

Leonardo Royal

15th

Brighton i360

19th

MAY

JUNE

JULY

AUGUST

Pryzm Brighton

The Old Ship Hotel

Amex Stadium

Saltdean Lido TBC

SEPTEMBER

OCTOBER

NOVEMBER

DECEMBER

Brighton i360

The Grand

Brighton Ice Rink

Xmastravaganza

17th

20th

21st

18th

19th 15th

16th

20th

www.bigbusinessbreakfastclub.co.uk www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 43

N ETWO RKI NG & EVE NTS S P ON S OR

Sussex cricket players visit Chestnut Tree House

County stars Tom Alsop, Fynn Hudson-Prentice and Ari Karvelas paid a special visit to the local children’s hospice.

The cricketers visited

Networking & Events

Chestnut Tree House, where they played

football, games and participated in arts

and crafts with children and the amazing staff who provide specialist care at the West Sussex facility.

Chestnut Tree House is a children’s charity that provides hospice care

services and community support for children and young people with life-

limiting and life-threatening conditions across Sussex and Southeast Hampshire.

As well as care provided at the House, nurses visit families at home, taking children out to explore their local

community, or simply giving tired

44 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

families and carers the chance to take a

On behalf of the Sussex Cricket

well-earned break.

Foundation, the players also presented

Alsop, Hudson-Prentice and Karvelas

the Club, with goody bags full of toys

some of the children, who are fans of

spent the morning meeting children,

and presents.

given a special tour of the facilities,

Elaine Ford, Activities Coordinator

stories of those who receive care.

phenomenal with the children and

Speaking on the visit, Fynn Hudson-

with families and putting smiles on

spend our morning at Chestnut Tree

back any time.”

they have, as well as spending some

To find out more about Chestnut Tree

their families and their carers and were whilst also listening to some of the

Prentice said: “It was good to get to

House and see the incredible facility

from the charity, said: “The guys were young people, playing sports, chatting everyone’s faces. They are welcome

time with a few of the children and

House, please visit https://www.

meeting some of the staff.

chestnut-tree-house.org.uk/

“Elaine showed us around and we got a

To find out about Sussex Cricket

atmosphere at the hospice.”

co.uk/sussex-cricket-foundation

real feel for the caring, warm and friendly

Foundation, visit https://sussexcricket.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 45

MOTO RI NG N E WS S P ON S OR

Maximise your business investment -

choose MAXUS for your AIA Allowance spend As we approach the end of the financial year, it’s crucial for business owners and decision-makers to make strategic choices regarding their investments. One such decision is how to effectively utilise the HMRC Annual Investment Allowance (AIA). Rivervale explains why investing in a new MAXUS van or pickup truck, or a quality used van, is a smart choice for your business.

The AIA is a type of

Motoring News

capital allowance

that offers tax relief to businesses on qualifying capital

expenditure. This allowance is designed to encourage investment in business assets, enhancing productivity and

efficiency. For more detailed information, visit the HMRC’s official website.

Why choose Rivervale MAXUS?

Quality and Reliability: MAXUS vehicles are synonymous with quality and

dependability. Whether you’re considering a new van or a pickup truck, MAXUS

offers a range of vehicles to meet diverse business needs. Each model is built to

withstand the rigours of daily use, ensuring your business operations run smoothly.

Wide Range of Options: At Rivervale, we offer an extensive selection of both new and pre-owned MAXUS vehicles. Our

46 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

inventory at Victoria Road, Portslade,

includes not only MAXUS vehicles, but

popular choices such as the Ford Transit Van and Nissan Navara Pickup Truck,

along with many others, giving you the

flexibility to choose a vehicle that aligns

perfectly with your business requirements.

Investment in the Future: Choosing a

MAXUS vehicle is not just an investment in a vehicle; it’s an investment in your business’s future. With advanced

technology, design, and the majority of

these new MAXUS vehicles are electric so reducing your running costs and reducing your CO2 output.

Enhanced Business Image: Driving a new or well-maintained van or truck reflects positively on your business.

It demonstrates professionalism and

commitment to quality, which can be

crucial for making a good impression on clients and partners.

Act now to benefit this tax year The end of the tax year is fast

approaching, and the time to act is

now. By ordering your new MAXUS

vehicle today, you can ensure delivery in time to capitalise on the AIA

allowance for the current tax year, ending in early April.

Delaying your decision could mean

missing out on this year’s allowance benefits. Investing in a new or used

MAXUS vehicle is a wise decision for

any business looking to utilise its AIA allowance effectively.

Not only do you benefit from a highquality, reliable vehicle, but you also

gain the advantage of tax relief. Visit

Rivervale on Victoria Road, Portslade, to

explore our selection and make a choice that drives your business forward.

Visit HMRC for AIA Allowance Details

MOTO R I N G N EWS SP ON SO R

Rivervale chooses Chestnut Tree House as its charity partner for 2024 Rivervale, which provides leasing, purchasing, servicing and vehicle management for cars, vans and minibuses, is delighted to announce its partnership with Chestnut Tree House as the company’s chosen charity for 2024.

Several members

Motoring News

of the Rivervale

team recently visited

Chestnut Tree House, a local children’s

hospice providing vital care for children with life-shortening conditions and

their families. Touched by the inspiring work done at the hospice, Rivervale is

committed to supporting Chestnut Tree House in their mission.

Throughout 2024, Rivervale has

planned a series of fundraising events and initiatives to raise funds and

awareness for Chestnut Tree House.

These initiatives include a golf day,

where participants can enjoy a day on

the greens while contributing to a noble cause. Additionally, several Rivervale staff members will be taking part

in the Brighton Marathon Weekend events, participating in both the

marathon and 10k run, demonstrating their dedication to making a positive impact in the community.

The year-long commitment extends to various staff-led fundraisers, including engaging coffee mornings and other

exciting events to involve employees and foster a sense of community.

Rivervale is also exploring innovative

ways to get customers actively involved in supporting fundraising initiatives.

Vince Pemberton, Rivervale CEO,

expressed his enthusiasm about the

partnership, saying: “We are thrilled to

be supporting Chestnut Tree House this

year. Witnessing the incredible work

Hannah Seltzer, partnerships

make a meaningful contribution. We

House, said: “For the children and young

together with our staff and customers,

have fun and enjoy new experiences

in the lives of those supported by

than £5 million each year to provide all

they do has inspired us to step up and

engagement manager at Chestnut Tree

believe in the power of community, and

people we care for, the opportunity to

we aim to make a significant difference

is priceless. However, it costs more

Chestnut Tree House.”

Chestnut Tree House’s specialist care

This year, Rivervale has set an

funded by the government.

Chestnut Tree House. The financial

“We are so grateful for Rivervale’s

running costs for 12 hours, and

life to shortened years, enabling families

ambitious goal – to ‘Pay for a Day’ at

services, with only a small percentage

target of £7,500 covers the hospice’s

generous support, which will help us add

Rivervale aspires to go beyond that,

to create magical memories together.”

care. By achieving this goal, Rivervale

Connect with Rivervale on social media

support to Chestnut Tree House,

date with the fundraising initiatives and

children and families they serve.

in the community.

hoping to fund a full 24-hour period of aims to provide comprehensive

or visit rivervale.co.uk to stay up-to-

ensuring continuous care for the

discover more about what Rivervale do

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 47

CH A M BE R N E WS S P ON S OR

The accredited Chamber Network blueprint to drive net-zero transition

By Ana Christie, CEO, Sussex Chamber of Commerce.

The British Chambers

Chamber News

of Commerce ‘Green

Innovation Challenge’ report has outlined a

series of proposals for

policymakers to help accelerate the UK’s transition to net-zero.

Among the recommendations in the report are:

• A new public body to oversee delivery of core climate policies

• Strengthened resources for

independent Climate Change

48 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Committee (CCC)

•A robust Green Industrial Strategy from Government

•A permanent cross-sector approach to green jobs from policymakers

•Q uicker Government action on

financing the transition to net-zero through the tax system

The Green Innovation report was

published at an event hosted by Glasgow Chamber of Commerce at the National Manufacturing Institute Scotland.

It is the first of five policy documents

being published by the British

Chamber’s new Business Council as

part of the ‘Future of Economy’ project.

The report draws on expertise from

businesses of all sizes and sectors, academia and think-tanks.

The report acknowledges that the

“UK has one of the most substantial

legal frameworks for climate change

anywhere in the world.” However, it also makes clear that “significant challenges ahead” and policy gaps remain.

Establishing a new public body focused

C HA M BER N EWS SP O N SO R

and Chair of the Business

“I’ve been delighted to chair our

most pressing challenges

together some of the UK’s most

transition to a green and

leading academics. The message

have no habitable planet if

play a leadership role in sustainably

Council said: “One of the

meetings over recent months, bringing

for all businesses is the

prominent businesses alongside

sustainable future. We will

is clear – business can, and will,

we don’t encourage rapid

transforming our economy.

and effective actions.

“Our report outlines clear and

report’s recommendations can propel

accelerate the UK’s transition

leadership role, seizing the opportunity

realistic recommendations to

British businesses into a global

to net-zero. A robust strategy

of becoming the agents of change.”

economy must be underpinned

James Close, Head of Climate

messaging from Government.

member of the BCC Business Council

“BCC research and

enshrine net zero into law, the UK has

focused on delivery across the by clear and consistent Ana Christie

on climate delivery, the report says, would ensure genuine cross party working

“The UK is on the right track. This

engagement with businesses

tells us that firms of all sizes want to play

Change at NatWest Group, and

said: “As the first major economy to

already seen strong progress on our decarbonisation journey.

to agree long-term commitments.

their part, but face barriers along the way.

would give it the capacity to provide

“This report showcases the power

will require greater collaboration across

assess the key challenges facing

net zero by 2050.

investors that current green industrial

members are excited about seizing

“At NatWest, and as highlighted

a long-term, cross cutting strategy.

economy that works for all.

Report, we see that many businesses

In order to maintain the country’s

“This is just the start of our Business

supporting both decarbonisation and

recommends linking the UK and

publishing our other key challenge reports

to unlock significant revenue for

implementing energy grid upgrades

year ahead, our recommendations will

to meet its climate commitments.”

Government partnerships.

the future of the economy.”

The above report is part of a series of

The report concludes “we are now

Entrepreneur Lisa Witter, Chair of Green

will develop realistic recommendations

Strengthened resources for the CCC deeper analysis of specific sectors.

of the BCC’s Business Council to

The report highlights the clear call from

the economy head on. The council

policies need to be brought together into

the opportunity to build a sustainable

“However, we know that the next stage the public and private sector to reach

in the Green Innovation Challenge

are determined to play their part in

progress on climate the report also

Council work. We look forward to

green innovation and have the potential

EU emissions trading schemes,

in the coming weeks. In the busy political

themselves as well as enable the country

and establishing deeper business and

provide a crucial blueprint to help build

entering a crunch phase for delivery on

Innovation Challenge Group said:

the necessary policy measures involve

“The UK has the potential to lead

and business behaviours, and in some

believe our report gives policymakers a

net zero” and recognises that “many of

five policy areas and documents which for the future of the UK economy,

focusing on Green Innovation, People

and Work, Local Economy of the Future,

changes to supply chains to customer

the world in Green Innovation. We

Digital Revolution and Global Britain.

cases additional cost burdens at least in

springboard to unlock that potential.

The full report and commentary

“All of our recommendations are

zero transition can be found on

be implemented in a timely manner.

sussexchamberofcommerce.co.uk/

the short term”.

Martha Lane Fox, President of the

British Chambers of Commerce (BCC)

pragmatic and with political support can

on the blueprint to drive the net

our website news: https://www.

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 49

CH A M BE R N E WS S P ON S OR

Meet Lisa Baskott, CEO of 2nd Line of Defence Hannah Jackson, Marketing & Engagement Manager at Brighton Chamber, writes about Lisa Baskott after her guest talk at The ‘Safe and secure’ Breakfast.

Here’s Lisa’s story.

In March 2021 Lisa

Chamber News

Baskott moved to Brighton. It was

after this move that an event happened

which changed her life. She turned

the TV on to find a news bulletin from Clapham. It caught her eye because, originally from Clapham, she said ‘nothing ever happens there’.

The news item was about a young

woman called Sarah Everard, who had

gone missing as she was walking home one evening. Two days later, Sarah

50 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Everard had been found dead, and the

culprit for her abduction and murder was a police officer.

A magistrate of 12 years, Lisa says this

sent her into overdrive. She felt angry –

really angry. She wanted to know how a

women who had gathered there shocked Lisa. These women were gathered

because Sarah Everard’s death had

struck a chord in them. Every single

one of those women had experienced something that resonated with them.

woman cannot even walk home without

‘At that point, I lost my shit’

idea that the person who had caused

Lisa felt compelled to do something.

being harmed. Lisa was angry at the

this harm was in a position of authority.

The final catalyst was, days later,

watching a peaceful vigil at Clapham Common bandstand. Seeing the

Metropolitan Police response to the

She was angry, and she wanted to do

something with that anger. She started

looking at the organisations that are meant to be protecting people, and realised that something needed to be done.

C HA M BER N EWS SP O N SO R

say, and people were going to listen. So,

she ‘put her big girl pants on’, and set up

2nd Line of Defence, the UK’s first femalefocused security recruitment agency.

Lisa had a vision

2023 saw Lisa catapulted into an arena where people want to hear what she

has to say – and she has been put into spaces where she can start changing

people’s opinions. Amongst a few other initiatives, she is now a member of the National Security Skills Board and is a ‘critical friend’ to British Transport

Police working alongside stakeholders

dealing with initiatives around preventing

At this point, Lisa didn’t think she’d be working the doors in Brighton. But her research showed that, although the

frontline private security industry has been regulated for over 20 years, it’s in a mess.

And, of the 400,000+ licenses issued

since 2003 for door security staff, only 10% of these were issued to women.

Representation matters

This was astounding to Lisa. Security staff working in communities should also reflect the communities that

they serve. How can a burly white

man working on a door understand what it’s like for women to feel

uncomfortable in these common

places? She couldn’t see people that reflected her working in the industry.

So, she did the door supervisor course –

and once she had her license, she signed up for security work all over the place.

Lisa talked about the reaction she would get. People asked her if she was in the right place – seemed to think it was a

gimmick. But, finding what she calls a

forward-thinking company, they decided to use her to their advantage.

They understood the power of someone who looks like me

Her first ever security gig was the 2021 Labour Party Conference. They put her

right out the front: understanding the

power of someone who looks like Lisa.

violence against women and girls.

For 2024, Lisa has, as you might

For Lisa, it was important for her to

imagine, big plans. She wants to take

to start changing the narrative, to

to create systemic change. Systemic

seeing her do that job.

and stakeholders in cities like Brighton

do that job. It was important for her

the conversation around the country,

understand what it felt like for women

change has to be simultaneous change,

18 months later and Lisa had learnt a

need to have seat at the table.

lot. You name a place in Brighton, odds

Lisa says she’s not the catalyst for

from The Grand Hotel to Shoosh. During

conductor, helping everyone to speak

anecdotal evidence, chatting to (plenty

power of one – being angry, enthused,

are Lisa’s been on the doors there –

change, but sees herself more as the

that time, she gathered swathes of

with one voice. Her story shows the

of drunk) people on the doors showed

and doing something about it.

representation can make a difference.

What can you do?

Lisa has never once had to physically

approach a problem that is so huge.

puts this down to having empathy

you fit into your daily life? Talk to the

communicating with them (and doing

communities. And what bigger voice

her the impact she was having, and how

Lisa recognises that it can be hard to

remove someone from a venue. She

Her advice is to start small – what can

with the people she meets, and simply

people around you, engage with your

it well).

do you have than what you put into

Putting her big girl pants on

the ballot box?

The issues faced by the private security

Brighton Chamber is a welcoming and

issues. Lisa points out that it deals with

businesess of all sizes. Find out more

sector are not separate from societal

inclusive membership organsiation for

misogyny, violence against women,

at brightonchamber.co.uk.

violence against LGBTQI+ groups (yes, even in Brighton).

Lisa wanted to do more. She had plenty to

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 51

LI FE STY L E S PO NS OR

Transforming Brighton Dome - the heart of the city, restored and reunited Brighton and Hove City Council, together with Brighton Dome, Brighton Festival and Brighton and Hove Museums, are working in partnership to protect, restore and reunite the buildings and landscape of the historic Royal Pavilion Estate to secure its future as a world-class cultural destination in the heart of the city.

Designed and built

Lifestyle

over 200 years ago as a summer residence

for the Prince Regent, the Royal Pavilion

Estate combines a historic royal palace and Regency garden, a museum and

art gallery and three live performance

venues – Brighton Dome’s Concert Hall, Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre.

Attracting over 1.2 million visitors

52 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

a year, the estate contributes

significantly to the city’s economy.

The regeneration project will develop

and broaden the cultural tourism offer and on completion is anticipated to

support 1,241 FTE jobs and have an economic impact of £68m.

The estate’s bold design and daring experimentation with form helped establish the city’s reputation two

centuries ago but it now faces unique

challenges and is in need of urgent refurbishment and upgrades.

As this is a major heritage project, it is being delivered in three phases over several years.

Phase one

Phase one is complete and includes

the major refurbishment of the Grade I Listed Corn Exchange and Grade II Listed Studio Theatre.

L I F ESTY L E SP ON SO R

Phase two

develop new artistic work or perform on

of the Royal Pavilion and improvements

are back to life like never before.

Phase two includes internal refurbishment to the Royal Pavilion Garden.

Phase three

our stages - these incredible buildings

Corn Exchange

This stunning 200-year-old former

ideas so we can help nurture and retain the next generation of artists.

New public spaces include a welcome

area, gallery bar and Corn Exchange foyer.

royal riding school has been stripped

Eat, drink and socialise

features, including the widest span

Theatre and opening out onto New

and Studio Theatre has transformed

distinctive ornate windows.

now welcomes visitors throughout the

and fully accessible destination for

Studio Theatre

see your favourite artist (or be amazed

architect Robert Atkinson, the Studio

company Redroaster has partnered with

to eat, hire the space for a private event,

and has been re-modelled to offer an

lunch and dinner menus alongside

This phase includes further development of Brighton Museum and Art Gallery

back to reveal its original heritage

On the ground floor of the Studio

The refurbishment of the Corn Exchange

timber frame in the country and the

Road, a bright, contemporary restaurant

Brighton Dome into a vibrant, creative

day and into the evening.

everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to

Originally designed in 1935 by renowned

Award-winning sustainable local

by a new one), relax over a drink or bite

Theatre is the smaller capacity venue

the estate to offer delicious breakfast,

develop new artistic work or perform on

unrivalled visitor experience.

roasted organic coffee, wines and

are back to life like never before.

Anita’s Room

Refurbishment of the Corn Exchange

and we believe that the power of the

for audiences attending events in both

Brighton Dome into a vibrant, creative

across all ages and abilities. This new

and are also available for private hire

everyone to enjoy. Whether you want to

supported by the Roddick Foundation,

by a new one), relax over a drink or bite

performers and community groups to

our stages - these incredible buildings

award-winning cocktails.

Brighton and Hove is a city of creativity,

Two new bars provide refreshments

and Studio Theatre has transformed

arts can transform and enrich lives

the Corn Exchange and Studio Theatre

and fully accessible destination for

practical work/meet/rehearse space,

breakouts.

see your favourite artist (or be amazed

will be open to artists, writers,

https://www.brighton-hove.gov.uk/

to eat, hire the space for a private event,

explore, research and develop their

culture/royal-pavilion-estate

libraries-leisure-and-arts/arts-and-

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 53

W I N E O F TH E MO NT H S P ON S OR

County Business Clubs’ Wine of the Month February 2024

Kinsbrook Chardonnay 22 Kinsbrook Vineyard The Wine of the Month for February is from local vineyard Kinsbrook, based

near West Chiltington in West Sussex, not far from the South Downs National Park.

Joe Beckett and his partner, Rebecca, favour minimal-interventionist,

regenerative practices both in the vineyard and their winemaking

processes. Kinsbrook is continuing to promote sustainability through

Michael’s tasting

Kinsbrook Farmhouse, its vibrant

notes

international produce, butchery and

The 2022 season had

restaurant on the first floor.

warm weather during

Joe is one of the UK’s youngest vineyard

really developed the

farm. The vineyard makes a wide range

On the nose for this

Chardonnay 22, Kin 22, Pinot Noir Rose,

fruit, apricot and

Chough au Vin. They also produce two

with citrus. On the

also sold at fine restaurants in London.

of fruit, followed by citrus backbone

and Hove Wine Club

Rebecca launched their first ever

leaving the pressed juice more contact

Michael Yeoman specialises in working

the challenging 2022 season which has

malolactic fermentation, which means

around Sussex and the South Downs.

temperature giving more of a rich

Club and also creates a range of small

minerality is rounded with tropical notes

and Vodka through Spirit of the Downs

ground floor farm shop with local and delicatessen with a relaxed café and

two good periods of the summer which

owners working the area from his family’s

character of this wine.

of still wines which include Bacchus,

wine, we have stone

and a red from Rondo grapes called

honeysuckle together

sparkling White and Rose wines which are

palate is a nice amount

At the end of summer 2023, Joe and

with a nice body and mouthfeel from

single-variety Chardonnay blend from

with the skins. The wine has undergone

with small batch wine producers in and

been a great success.

the grape juice ferments at a higher

He founded Brighton and Hove Wine

Winemaker’s notes

or buttery feel. The wine has nice

batch Sussex Brandies, Grape spirits

Fermented in a stainless steel tank,

coming through and a lingering finish.

based at Bolney.

a soft, round finish owing to malolactic

Kinsbrook wines are available from the

www.brightonandhovewineclub.co.uk

process. Lively citrus on the nose and

as the Hawkin Brothers and other

special wine.

£25 a bottle.

unoaked. Dry, clean and balanced with fermentation during the winemaking

vineyard direct or local vintners, such

tropical pineapple on the palate. A

quality wine merchants, for around

54 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk

Michael Yeoman, Founder of Brighton

B E S T

O F

B R I T I S H

E V E N T S

P R E S E N T S

SPONSORED BY

Fri 5th July 2024

Best of British D-Day 80th Anniversary Lunch

AT LONDON’S PRESTIGIOUS WALDORF HOTEL

Featuring three very special guests:

Kay Burley Sky News Broadcaster for 35 years breaking world events from the death of Princess Diana to 9/11. A passionate supporter of our Armed Forces.

Nicholas Witchell BBC’s Royal Correspondent & News Broadcaster for over 40 years and Founder of the Normandy Memorial Trust.

IN AID OF

Lord Richard Dannatt GCB CBE MC

Former Chief of General Staff (Head of the British Army) and Chair of the Normandy Memorial Trust.

Tables of 10 available now:

£990+VAT CO-SPONSORED BY

PROTECTING BUYERS, SOLICITORS & LENDERS

www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk 55

to book email london@bestofbritish.org.uk

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56 www.sussexbusinessgroup.co.uk