Bath Life Professional Services Guide 2020

PROSERVICES

2020

ARCHITECTS

B US I N E SS SE R V I C E S / FI N A N C E / L AW / PR O PE R T Y

THE CITY AT

WORK MEET THE PROFESSIONALS MAKING THE CITY BUZZ

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ARCHITECTS

ADVERTISING FEATURE

SETTING THE AGENDA Meet the shining stars of Bath’s professional services’ community, from creative directors to financial experts who help your wealth grow, and a myriad of other professions in between

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ADVERTISING FEATURE LEGAL

BLB SOLICITORS

BATTENS

Tell us a little about your business

Roger Chadwick

Tell us a little about your business;

Battens is what we call a full service law firm, which means that we try to provide all the legal services which our clients may need during their lifetime. With seven offices Battens is one of the largest Law firms in the South West.

Tell us about your community/charity involvement;

Through the Battens Charitable Trust, Battens gives over £40,000 a year in donations and sponsorship.

Applications to the trust can be made from any deserving local charity or cause, the trust sets the criteria for funding each year and the trustees determine who will benefit from the awards granted.

Battens are one of the founder members of the Bath Citizens Advice Top 52 club providing both financial assistance and free legal support to the CAB.

Richard Lowes, partner

We have a strong regional presence and have been established in Bath for nearly 40 years. As a law firm, our success is based on developing long term relationships. Typically, our clients are business start-ups, owner-managed businesses and serial entrepreneurs. Over the years we’re proud to have played a role in their continued growth and success.

What areas do you specialise in?

In Bath, we have a full-service commercial team whose expertise includes business sales and acquisitions, corporate matters, commercial property, landlord and tenant and property disputes.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

It’s definitely the personal touch. While modern in outlook, we believe we have successfully avoided the faceless, corporate image associated with many law firms. From first contact, you may be surprised to be put straight through to the most appropriate solicitor, but in that way we can swiftly establish your goals and start working with you to achieve them. We’re also very proactive in keeping clients abreast of changes in law and procedure which may affect them and their business going forward.

Did you know?

We work extensively with clients and other professionals in the leisure and hospitality industries. These sectors are currently facing unprecedented challenges, especially in Bath where the local economy is so dependent on tourism. Despite that, a number of our clients are bucking the trend and investing substantially in both new and existing ventures in and around the city.

For more: 1 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath, BA1 2DU; 01225 462871; Richard.lowes@blbsolicitors.co.uk; www.blbsolicitors.co.uk

What areas do you specialise in;

I am a commercial property solicitor which means that I act for companies and individuals either granting or taking leases or buying or selling land for either commercial or residential development.

What challenges are your clients facing;

The High Street is undergoing radical change. The rise of internet shopping, escalating business rates and increasing car parking charges have made the High Street a less attractive place to shop. It is hard to see the retail sector surviving without a change in policy to encourage greater use of the high street and a change in shopping habits leading consumers back to the High Street and away from the internet.

Did you know

Battens set up its own bank a few years ago which went on to become Virgin Money.

For more: 01225 536870, roger.chadwick@battens.co.uk; www.battens.co.uk

Frank Scott-Ashe, Richard Bowater, Caroline Entwistle, Stephen Bishop - Managing Partner and Mike Hansom

ADVERTISING FEATURE BURNINGHAM & BROWN SOLICITORS Tell us a little about your business

Burningham & Brown is one of Bath’s best-known Private Client Practices specialising in Residential & Commercial Conveyancing, Wills, Probates & Trusts. Your matter will always be dealt with by an experienced, qualified and regulated Solicitor who you will be able to contact easily.

What achievement as a Firm are you most proud of?

We are proud of the fact that in a world which is becoming more ‘automated and less personal’ we can still provide an excellent and competitive service in a friendly, approachable environment making our Clients feel valued knowing that we have their best interests at heart. 100% of the Clients in our surveys last year said that they would use us again.

Tell us about your Charity involvement

The office has a Charity events program, our last donations included Motor Neurone, Julian House, The British Heart Foundation and CLIC Sargent. We have also raised over £10,000 for the RUH Forever Friends Appeal through the RUH Will month.

Did you know?

Burningham & Brown has always had strong connections with Bath Rugby. The original Partners met on the rugby field playing for Bath. A little-known fact is that David Gay, our Managing Partner, who played for Bath, Harlequins and England holds the distinction of being the youngest number 8 to play for England aged 19 years and 316 days at Twickenham, England V Wales, on the 20th January 1968.

For more: 20 Queen Square,Bath BA1 2HB; 01225 320090; law@bbsolicitors. co.uk; www.burninghambrown.com

“WE HAVE RAISED OVER £10,000 FOR THE RUH FOREVER FRIENDS APPEAL”

GOUGHS SOLICITORS Thomas Boyce, partner

Tell us a little about your business

Goughs is a Wiltshire-based law firm with offices as little as a 20 minute drive from Bath. We provide a wide range of legal services for individuals and businesses. .

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

Goughs is proud to boast one of the largest family departments within the region with 11 practicing lawyers totalling an impressive 155 years of experience amongst us. With this wealth of knowledge and expertise we are continuing to grow and attract clients from further afield, which will lead to the need for further recruitment in 2020.

What areas do you specialise in?

As a family team, we have a breadth of specialities ranging from prenups and post-nups to separation and divorce and matters involving children. We are extremely versed in dealing with complex cases which may require a range of expertise. Recognising the local client need, we have developed a ‘sector’ approach to cover all legal needs within specific areas; these include farming, healthcare, property investment, the armed forces and private wealth. Within these areas our family team DID YOU KNOW? will collaborate with other Goughs has been providing departments to provide a legal services since 1882 more holistic approach for when the first branch opened in Calne. Since then our clients. we have been expanding and in February 2020 opened our 7th office.

You can find us in Calne, Chippenham, Corsham, Devizes, Melksham, Trowbridge and now Greenways Business Park.

For more: 01249 444499; info@goughs.co.uk; www.goughs.co.uk

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ADVERTISING FEATURE HELEN STARKIE SOLICITOR Helen Starkie

When was your firm founded and by whom?

I founded the firm in 2010. I had worked in large regional firms managing large departments for the previous fifteen years or so. I had become disillusioned by the modern trend, in larger firms, of basing everything around fee-earning targets, rather than customer (and staff) satisfaction. I wanted to get back to the old values of having time and giving personal service to clients.

Tell us a little about your business

We work in comfortable, relaxed surroundings at our new, larger offices at 38 Gay Street and our services (and our premises) are entirely geared to the individual. We specialise in Court of Protection work for those (young or old) who cannot manage their own affairs, powers of attorney, wills, probate, trusts, tax-planning, issues surrounding residential and nursing care and domestic property issues.

MOGERS DREWETT

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Tells us a little about your business

Our service really is personal. Clients are not passed around an anonymous ‘team’ for different exercises. We offer home and hospital visits at no additional charge and do not limit our work to the purely legal aspects of a situation – for example we are happy to deal with issues such as ensuring that clients in care have appropriate clothing and furnishings with them when they move into care.

In house our style is open and friendly, non-hierarchical – and fun.

We spend a lot of time laughing!

Did you know?

Despite being a small firm (only six of us) we manage to raise as much for charities (primarily, Amnesty International, the RUH and Dorothy House) as any of the larger businesses in town!

For more: 38 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2NT Tel: 01225 442353; 07799 338386; hs@helenstarkie.co.uk; www.helenstarkie.co.uk

Sean McDonough

Mogers Drewett is a leading South West based law firm with offices in Bath, Wells, Sherborne and Frome offering a variety of legal services for private and commercial clients.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

It may not have escaped anyone’s attention that 2019 was a big year for us. From a change in management structure to an office move in Bath, 2019 was an important year in our continued commitment to being the law firm our clients [want/need] us to be. The change has not been easy and has resulted in us saying goodbye to colleages who have contributed to the firm’s success to date, but necessary to ensure we are in the best position to move forward.

What plans do you have for 2020?

We are excited for 2020! With our new management team in place and having fully settled into our new office at the heart of Bath’s new business district at Bath Quay, we are ready to make the 20’s our best decade yet. We are about to welcome a wave of new recruits to the business. Building on the reputation of our agricultural law specialists, Frank Collins and Jonathan Cheal (recently entered into the prestigious Legal 500 2020 Hall of Fame), our Wells Office will become our agricultural hub, with a number of talented lawyers recruited to join our agricultural and commercial property teams. On the back of a record year for our commercial team, we also managed to attract an experienced corporate lawyer relocating from a London firm, to add to our growing Bath based commercial team. We are also welcoming recruits into our private client and residential conveyancing teams and we are delighted to welcome Louise Kelly back to the firm as our new Head of Marketing.

These are just some of our exciting new projects for 2020 there will be more so watch. this space.

For more: St James House The Square, Lower Bristol Rd, Bath BA2 3BH; 0800 533 5349; www.mogersdrewett.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE

MW SOLICITORS LTD

Tell us a little about your business

At MW Solicitors we pride ourselves in providing a full range of legal services for you, your family and your business. Our Solicitors offer an accessible, affordable, personal service so you can deal with real people, close to you, who know you.

ROYDS WITHY KING

What areas do you specialise in?

Tell us a little about your business

Our specialist Solicitors provide advice across the widest range of legal disciplines on the High Street including; Buying and Selling Property, Child and Family Law, Clinical Negligence, Commercial Property, Criminal Defence, Divorce, Employment, Extradition, Leasehold, Litigation, Personal Injury, Property Disputes, Wills, Trusts and Inheritance Law. What sets you apart from others in your sector?

When you talk to MW Solicitors you are supported by our full network of offices with over 250 legal professionals able to provide you with the help you need. Our diversity means that we speak over 30 languages so you can be confident in getting the right advice you need no matter where you are from. Our offices are in accessible high street shops, so if you have a legal problem, come in and talk to our experts.

Did You Know?

MW Solicitors is highly regarded by our clients with over 2000 five star ratings on Google. We are one of the 3 Best Rated Solicitors in Bath for Employment, Family, Personal Injury, Property and Criminal Defence Law. We have a network of over 25 offices, so you are never far from accessing the justice you deserve.

For more: 020 3551 8500; enquiries@mwsolicitors.co.uk; www.mwsolicitors.co.uk

Graham Street

Royds Withy King has been the fastest growing mid-market law firm in the UK over the past 10 years and was voted Best Managed law firm in 2019. We are head-quartered in Bath but have offices in London, Oxford and Wiltshire plus a growing hub in Bristol.

We’re the leading experts in Bath for legal services, especially for those with a level of complexity (whether across private and business practice areas) and particularly for inheritance planning or buying or selling a business.

Tell us about your community/charity involvement

We have supported and promoted TEDx Bath since it started, and raised money and awareness for nominated local charities – this year it is Julian House. We’re the official legal partner of Bath Rugby.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

We have been strategically growing for the long term by investing in key areas such as private wealth, residential development, rural businesses and supporting entrepreneurs.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

To quote one of our clients: “Expertise and knowledge that I was hoping for, but also the ability to listen and understand, and to act swiftly and thoroughly. And all of this overlain with a friendly and personable approach.”

What is your staffing model?

There has been significant ongoing investment in our people and technology processes in anticipation of future market trends.

What challenges are your clients facing?

We are acutely aware that this is a time of significant challenge, but with challenge comes opportunity, enabling us to bring our brand (‘ahead of the curve’) to life by really getting to grips with the issues on behalf of our clients.

Did You Know?

We believe we are the only law firm in the UK to have a digital legacy portal for our clients; it’s called LIFESAFE ® For more: 5-6 Northumberland Buildings, Queen Square, Bath BA1 2JE; 01225 459999; www.roydswithyking.com

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ADVERTISING FEATURE STONE KING

David Whitworth, partner

Tell us a little about your business

We are a national law firm based in Bath with expertise across the education, charity & social enterprise and business sectors as well as private client, offering the full range of personal services.

Although we are national, Stone King remains committed to Bath and our recent joining forces with fellow Bath private client firm Mowbray Woodwards in 2019 is testament this.

We are dedicated to our community, both by supporting local charities and events but also through initiatives such as our Bath litter pick.

What areas do you specialise in?

“ALTHOUGH WE ARE NATIONAL, STONE KING REMAINS COMMITTED TO BATH”

I’m a Partner in the Trusts & Estates Team. I help clients to protect their family and assets by drawing up Wills, advising on inheritance tax planning and on establishing and running trusts. I joined the firm from Mowbray Woodwards and am based at 3 Queen Square, across from Stone King’s long-standing offices at number 13.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our private client team is made up of some of the top experts in their fields, which has been further bolstered by the newly combined practice, which almost doubled the team. This means we can assist with whatever life has in store as we help our clients to plan for the future and protect themselves and their loved ones.

Did you know

SHARP FAMILY LAW Richard Sharp

Tell us a little about your business...

Sharp Family Law is the largest niche firm of family law solicitors in Bath. We specialise in helping clients to minimise conflict and maximise results, so that they can move forward successfully into the future.

Since our inception, we have been committed to fostering a constructive and strategic approach to helping clients control costs and achieve the best possible outcome. We are recognised for our expertise in helping clients resolve issues in a constructive, cost efficient manner through out of court options, including Collaborative Law, Mediation and Constructive Negotiation What are the strengths of your company...

An interview process conducted in 2014 revealed that clients felt very supported by our solicitors, received good advice from them, were encouraged to concentrate on what was important to them and their families, and saw costs managed within budgets. They also believed the firm looked out for what was in their best interest. It is responses like that which explain why we do the work we do. It is the reason I founded the firm in 2007. It means a lot to us to know we are making a positive difference in our clients’ lives.

For more: 01225 448955; www.sharpfamilylaw.com

“IT MEANS A LOT TO US TO KNOW WE ARE MAKING A POSITIVE DIFFERENCE IN OUR CLIENTS’ LIVES” 10 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Stone King has a continuous working history in Bath for 235 years.

For more: 13 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HJ; 01225 369002; www.stoneking.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE ACCOUNTANTS

CLEAR VISION

Matthew Rogers, managing director Tell us a little about your business

THRINGS

We are a caring, down-to-earth team providing accountancy, tax, payroll and also wider business growth services such as board support and marketing strategy reviews.

Many people in Bath will know Rob Walsh, who owned the majority stake in Clear Vision Accountancy from its inception in 2004 until August 2019, when I took over as its owner.

I had been working alongside Rob for 10 years and continue to uphold the client-focused values he established.

My team are empathetic and responsive to our clients’ needs which makes our business a great place to be.

Tell us a little about your business

What areas do you specialise in?

Michael Westbrook, Tax Planning & Trusts partner Although a national law firm, Thrings has been in Bath in some shape or form for three centuries. Now a modern and agile business, Thrings’ specialist legal teams work together to advise private individuals, entrepreneurs and family businesses, all the way to multinationals across a range of sectors and locations.

Our well-established reputation for assisting Bathonians with their private legal matters, as well as those living in the surrounding rural areas, is reflected in Thrings’ expanding Private Client team here in Queen Square. In the past year, we welcomed two experts in private wealth and inheritance: senior associate, Penelope Munro, and associate, Jermaine Smith. Kathryn Bew has also recently joined us as a highly experienced family lawyer.

Because of the historic nature of the city, conveyancing in Bath is a specialism in itself. We’re proud to have had our Private Property team recognised at the recent Bath Property Awards for its role in some particularly high-value property transactions and prestigious developments in and around the city.

What plans do you have for 2020?

In 2020 we will be building on our reputation as strong private client advisers, working alongside our commercial lawyers and agricultural experts to guide our clients through the complex matters that arise from one’s private, business and property interests.

Did You Know?

Blockchain could have a significant impact on the way legal services are provided. Our experts are helping clients seize the opportunities the technology presents (and mitigate the risks) – this includes for private individuals.

For more: 2 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HQ ; 01225 340000; www.thrings.com

Making it our business to understand our clients and supporting them on their journey via the provision of management information which aids business growth, and highlights opportunities to protect their health and wellbeing.

What challenges are your clients facing?

We work with business owners experiencing challenges to varying degrees.

These challenges tend to boil down to three key matters; money pressure, team hassle and a loss of ‘mojo’ for running their business.

The number of clients we take on that are ‘working blind’, without the necessary clarity over their business numbers, still surprises us. This means they miss out on information which helps them make better, informed business decisions, deflect potential issues and develop a disciplined and accountable team.

Did You Know?

Our team members rarely change. The average length of service across our team is 9.5 years.

This level of team retention supports our goal to provide familiar and knowledgeable support to local business owners.

For more: 1 Abacus House, Newlands Rd Corsham SN13 0BH; 01249 712074; www.clearvisionaccountancygroup.co.uk

“WE WORK WITH BUSINESS OWNERS EXPERIENCING CHALLENGES TO VARYING DEGREES” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 11

ADVERTISING FEATURE CONCINNITY CONSULTING Anna Goodship

Tell us a little about your business...

I took the decision to leave my previous role as finance director and start my own consultancy business nearly two years ago, in July 2017.

Having worked in the finance sector for 14 years, I wanted to share my expertise with other organisations who have a desire to grow and develop their business, but don’t have the resource or experience to do that by themselves.

So, Concinnity Consultancy Ltd was born. It started with my values – a blend of expertise, honesty and my desire to integrate myself into my client’s business to truly understand what will work for them. My brand then followed – I wanted to differentiate and stand out from others in the sector.

In summary, the business offers a flexible solution to finance, operating at finance director level and working within the business on a variety of services specifically tailored to the business needs – for example, management accounting, cash flow planning, budgeting, team development or process improvement, often working alongside the business’s external accountant.

Over the past year I haven’t stopped! This coming year I plan to continue as I have been. I am truly delighted that I took the leap and started my own business.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

I have always wanted to run a half-marathon. My Dad had a severe stroke 10 years ago and it had always been one of my goals to raise some money for the Stroke Association. Working a full-time, fairly demanding job I had never felt I had the time to train for one. As I started my own business in mid-2017, I decided my first year of business (when I would have more work-life balance!) would be the time to do this.

It didn’t completely go to plan. I planned to run the Bath Half in March 2018. I started training in November and by the January I had a badly torn hamstring! I had raised over £2,300 so was pretty determined to run it after months of physio. Needless to say I was one of the few people who was pleased by the first ever cancellation of the Bath Half in 2018. Partly recovered, I went on to run the two-tunnels half marathon in May and ‘earn’ my sponsorship. I was really proud to be the Stroke Associations top fundraiser and was given a celebratory bottle of champagne!

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

I would say I’m pretty unique in what I offer – a flexible finance director who is happy to work as many or as few hours as my clients need. So, for some clients it will be a few hours a month, whereas for others I’m on site one day a week.

I would also describe myself as ‘non-corporate’ – that doesn’t mean to say I’m not highly professional with strong integrity, it’s more about being really approachable and friendly (and, of course, trustworthy and honest).

What makes working in Bath special?

I love the fact that even though it’s a World Heritage Centre, which makes it one of the most beautiful cities in the UK, it’s a perfect size – small enough to feel homely and welcoming.

It’s a great city to work in, because there is so much diversity and culture – there’s a real buzz during the day and, of course, it’s equally lively at night too. I also love the variety of restaurants and eating places, from street food to 5-star gourmet specialities, all placed so close to each other. Plus, the beautiful Somerset countryside that is literally on our doorstep – I genuinely wouldn’t want to live or work anywhere else.

I’ve also met some wonderful clients and partners to work with, through a great networking circle – Women Mean Biz. I’ve found it really beneficial meeting every month for lunch and sharing working practices, challenges and opportunities.

0800 170 1779; www.concinnityconsultancy.co.uk

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PEARSON MAY

Matthew Rutter BSc (Hons) FCA CTA Tell us a little about your business

Pearson May is a leading firm of Chartered Accountants and Chartered Tax Advisers with our Bath office located in Great Pulteney Street. The firm was established in Bath nearly 180 years ago, and we strive to help our clients pay less tax. Our clients are local, regional, national and international.

What makes working in Bath special?

More so now than ever before, Bath is a vibrant and eclectic mix of business and pleasure. Against the backdrop of our beautiful city, Pearson May provides advice to owner managed businesses, fellow professionals, and private individuals who value a quality personal service – and paying less tax, of course!

What challenges are your clients facing?

With ever increasing government regulation, managing your business and tax affairs requires ever more specialist professional advice. At Pearson May many of our senior staff and partners are Chartered Tax Advisers, as well as being qualified accountants.

Did You Know?

It is highly rewarding to give back to our community and, as part of this process, Pearson May organises a popular Charity Golf Day in support of local charities. The event attracts business teams across all sectors and has been taking place every September for more than 20 years now.

In total we’ve raised a six-figure sum for the charities concerned.

01225 460491; www.pearsonmay.co.uk

“BATH IS A VIBRANT AND ECLECTIC MIX OF BUSINESS AND PLEASURE”

PG OWEN & CO, CHARTERED ACCOUNTANTS Director Ian Gillard

Tell us a little about PG Owen’s history...

It was established in 1871 by David Owen, one of the founding fathers of the Institute of Chartered Accountants in England & Wales. In 146 years, this current management team is only the fourth in the fi rm’s history. We are more than just accountants and tax advisers. We offer a complete one-stop source of all financial support, be it financial services through our parent company or legal services through our associate company.

What advice would you give to any considering accountancy as a career?

A good analytical mind is required, a desire to offer the very best advice to all clients, both large and small, and a degree of determination to treat every obstacle as a challenge is essential.

Is there anything you are monitoring that might impact your line of work?

We are always keeping an eye on anything that may affect us and our clients, including making tax digital. And, undoubtedly, Brexit will provide challenges at all levels. For many businesses, the impact of the major increases in national living wage allied to increased auto enrolment pension contributions will mean that pricing issues will be at the forefront of many businesses.

For more: 124 High Street, Midsomer Norton, Bath BA3 2DA; 01225 422183; www.pgtax.co.uk

“WE ARE MORE THAN JUST ACCOUNTANTS AND TAX ADVISERS. WE OFFER A COMPLETE ONE-STOP SOURCE OF ALL FINANCIAL SUPPORT, BE IT FINANCIAL SERVICES THROUGH OUR PARENT COMPANY OR LEGAL SERVICES THROUGH OUR ASSOCIATE COMPANY”

RICHARDSON SWIFT Jon Miles, tax director

Tell us a little about your business

We’re the largest chartered accountants based solely in Bath, which means our clients enjoy a truly local and personal service with forward thinking advice. We really get to know our clients too so can be more proactive, especially when it comes to long-term planning.

What challenges are your clients facing?

The financial impact of Coronavirus on local businesses is a serious concern. The government estimates that up to a fifth workers could be off work as a result of the virus at its peak (source: BBC, 3 March 2020).

The Chancellor announced a package of measures for SMEs in his recent Budget to help ease the financial losses from the Coronavirus and we’re helping clients to access these. However, more government support is needed urgently, particularly for businesses in the hospitality and events sector.

In addition, we’re advising clients to check their insurance policies, as it may be possible to claim for additional financial losses they incur as a result of the virus, if they have cover, from 4 March 2020 onwards.

What do you like most about your job?

Whether you’re an entrepreneur, professional or investor, there’s always the challenge that the more successful you become, the more tax you pay. It’s a nice problem to have of course and I enjoy the challenge of helping these clients; this can involve structuring their businesses as efficiently as possible for the long-term or up to an exit, as well as managing their tax risk.

Did you know?

Half of our tax team are Chartered Tax Advisors (CTAs), which is the most advanced tax qualification in the UK. Only 5% of professional accountants are CTA qualified so we have a high level of tax expertise for a firm of our size. This allows us to offer a much fuller range of advice, including more complex Inheritance Tax Planning, R&D Tax Credits, company share schemes and preparing for a company sale.

For more: 11 Laura Place, Bath, BA2 4BL; 01225 325580; info@richardsonswift.co.uk; www.richardsonswift.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE HR CITRUS HR

Kirsty Senior, co-founder & HR consultant Tell us a little about your business…

Citrus HR helps small businesses comply with employment law and manage their people. We have built software which makes it really easy to manage holidays, absences and all the usual employee information.

And our team of friendly HR experts help customers with all their staff issues.

What sets you apart?

Most HR service providers tie you in for a year (or longer!). Citrus HR’s rolling monthly contract that can be cancelled at any time, is our biggest point of difference.

Of course, we prepare the usual employment contracts and policies that every business needs. But as soon as customers start working with us it’s how we do what we do that makes them stay.

Our friendly, expert staff listen and come up with creative ideas suitable for each customer. We’re big enough to have in-house lawyers backing up our HR team and publishing small-business friendly legal updates for added reassurance, but small enough to really care.

Our web-based software helps in far more ways than people realise, creating efficiency and saving time. It’s exceptionally easy to use, and sends reminders for all kinds of things from birthdays to servicing fire extinguishers and key employment dates…

We’re also just launching the UK’s easiest, quickest payroll, which we’re super excited about!

COLLIVER CONSULTING

What challenges are our clients facing

Tell us a little about your business…

Right now - Coronavirus, of course! It’s devastating for some, and really tough for everyone. We’ve offered advice that goes far beyond the legal obligations, and we are updating our advice multiple times a week at the moment. Exhausting but important.

Did you know…

Our recently launched Allergy & Dietary preference support has rocketed to our most popular feature after Holidays and Absences!

For more: 18E Charles St, Bath BA1 1HX; 0333 444 0165; info@citrushr.com; www.citrushr.com

Fiona Colliver

Colliver Consulting provides HR support to SMEs, specialising in professional services. I relocated from London having spent over a decade partnering with senior management to resolve problems and deliver results. I now spend my time advising business owners on anything people related.

Work/life balance – how do you get it right for you?

I am very passionate about this. I’ve previously benefitted from a flexible environment which really increased my loyalty and engagement. I don’t get a choice about work life balance now, as I have young children. I’m available during school hours then work flexibly at other times.

What areas do you specialise in?

Relationships. I have a broad skill set and I’ve been fortunate enough to work in businesses where my clients wanted me to partner with them on all key projects. People turn to HR in a crisis and I thrive on that. I think what I’ve found since setting up Colliver Consulting is that people want HR advice but they also need a sounding board. Often there is no obvious person in smaller businesses to act as a trusted adviser, and that’s where I come in.

Did You Know?

I found my first client after advertising my HR services for free on social media. (They remain a client, unfortunately for them they didn’t get anything for free, but a local charity did instead).

For more: fiona@colliverconsulting.co.uk; 07841401693; www.colliverconsulting.co.uk

“PEOPLE TURN TO HR IN A CRISIS AND I THRIVE ON THAT”

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ADVERTISING FEATURE FINANCE BATH BUILDING SOCIETY Tiffany Hardie-Albutt

Tell us a little about your business...

We are a building society headquartered in Bath and we offer mortgages and savings. We have a small mortgage team which aims to offer a high standard of personal and flexible service; and we are known for our flexible approach to underwriting. All applications are judged on merit and decisions are made on the basis of the applicants’ individual circumstances by experienced underwriters rather than computers. We offer a range of niche mortgage products that wouldn’t be found on the high street, those that help out customers with unusual circumstances. On the savings side the fact we are focussed on Bath enables us to offer a more personal service. We see all our customers as individuals rather than numbers and we always endeavour to provide our members with attractive savings rates.

The society can trace its origins back to 1904 when it was set up originally as a friendly society. It used members investments to buy property to rent, becoming a building society in the 1950’s lending money to people in the city to buy their own homes. To this day we enjoy great support from the city of Bath although we also operate throughout England and Wales.

Tell us about your involvement in the community...

As the main sponsor of the Bath fireworks event at the Rec, in conjunction with The Rotary Club of Bath, we have helped to raise hundreds of thousands of pounds over the last 42 years. Along with this we also run the firework safety poster competition in primary schools and most people who have attended a primary school in Bath will have taken part in our Firework Safety Poster Competition over the years. In 2018 we handed out £6,500 to eight charities and community groups from the local area through the Bath Building Society’s Annual Charity Awards scheme. Last year we also sponsored the Bath Festival of Motoring, The Rotary’s Carol Service and the Boules Tournament that MediaClash organise in the City.

Tell us about your involvement with charities...

The Society sponsors a hot air balloon over Bath (run by Bath Balloons) which enables us to give away a limited number of tickets each year to good causes in and around Bath for fund-raising purposes.

01225 423271; www.bathbuildingsociety.co.uk

“OUR CHARTERED STATUS IS A REFLECTION OF OUR COMMITMENT TO PROFESSIONALISM, ETHICS AND LEARNING, ALL OF WHICH TRANSLATE INTO HIGH QUALITY FINANCIAL PLANNING” BECKFORD JAMES

Patricia Lake BSc (Hons) Dip PFS CFPCM Chartered MCSI Senior Partner Tell us a little about your business…

We are a Chartered firm of Independent Financial Planners. Founded in 2009 by three like minded and very experienced advisers with a common objective to put the client back at the centre of the financial planning process, we have grown organically, bringing on new trainees as well as more experienced advisers and partners, and now have offices in Birmingham and London as well as our head office in Bath.

Financial Planning begins by working out what’s important to you in life and how to plan your finances accordingly.

Independent means we work unrestrictedly across the whole market to find the most appropriate solutions for your needs.

Our Chartered status is a reflection of our commitment to professionalism, ethics and learning, all of which translate into high quality financial planning.

Work/life balance – how do you get it right for you and your staff?

Work /life balance is important for everyone in order for a business to run successfully and happily. Our staff, both full time and part time, all work very hard during the day, but there is a great team spirit and we also enjoy a lot of social time with colleagues and their families, in Bath and further afield, with events ranging from the more energetic trekking up Snowdon, a summer party and bbq for families, and regular offsite social events throughout the year.

On a personal level it can be very difficult as a business owner to switch off, but my family including grandchildren are a great distraction, and spending time with them or being in my garden and caring for my various animals including keeping bees, keeps my feet firmly on the ground.

What challenges are your clients facing?

As I write we are going into unchartered territory with Covid 19 restrictions to movement now in place, and many clients are naturally worried about the impact of this on their portfolios and future lifestyles, as well as the more urgent health and wellbeing considerations.

One of the benefits of financial planning rather than just advising, is that the financial modelling we do with our clients takes account of potential market downturns. For some of us this is the 11th market downturn we have experienced in 33 years and we understand that now is the time to sit tight and keep your head.

At Beckford James we have been proactive throughout in contacting our clients to reassure them of our actions, and all our advisers are available to discuss and address concerns, whether working from our offices or, for now, remotely. We have always been a business built on relationships, not transactions. Now more than ever, our clients appreciate being able to face these challenges together with a trusted and experienced adviser.

For more: Queen Square House, Queen Square Place, Bath BA1 2LL 01225 437600; www.beckfordjames.com

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 15

ADVERTISING FEATURE BREWIN DOLPHIN

Tom Annear, assistant director

Tell us a little about your business

We give our clients the confidence to make transformational financial decisions. We do this by educating them so that when we ask them to take our advice, they can move forwards with the confidence of knowledge, rather than simple trust.

Brewin Dolphin arrived in Bath last year with the acquisition of Epoch Wealth Management. What made Epoch a well-respected firm continues now; clients also benefit from the clout of a FTSE 250 company that’s been investing money successfully for over 250 years.

What is your staffing model?

In order to provide a highly bespoke service, each planner has a paraplanner (gifted technically but non-client facing) and an administrator. In this way, should a client call in, there are at least two people in the office who know the client’s situation and who can help them. In addition to the client facing staff, the office has a number of operational staff whose role is to ensure that everything runs as smoothly as possible.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Many small firms will have adopted a client centric focus; partly because it allows them to differentiate themselves from the larger players, who compete more on cost. We have retained the same client focus we did as a small firm but can now also access an investment and cost proposition that many smaller firms won’t be able to compete with.

Did you know?

The value of investments and any income from them can fall and you may get back less than you invested.

For more: 01225 487772; www.brewin.co.uk/bath

HANDELSBANKEN BATH Simon Cropper, branch manager Tell us a little about your business

Handelsbanken is a local relationship bank built on sustainable values. We offer individual and corporate banking as well as wealth management with high levels of bespoke customer service.

Handelsbanken Bath has been in the city since 2007, and we moved to new premises on Henry Street in 2018 to meet the growing demand for our personal service.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of proud of?

For eleven years in a row we have been voted top for customer satisfaction in an independent survey of British banking customers (EPSI Rating Oct 2019). Customer satisfaction sits at the very heart of Handelsbanken’s business model, and each branch operates as a local business which means they know their customers well and understand the local market and community.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath is such a vibrant city, yet still small enough to have a great sense of community. Being part of the business community and involved in charity and social events means there is never a dull moment given the plethora of activities throughout the whole year. Whether social or business, my favourite thing about working in Bath is always bumping into someone you know.

Did You Know?

Handelsbanken has over 200 branches across the UK, and we have no product or sales targets. Empowered employees make the majority of decisions in the local branch, based on customers’ individual requirements, whether they have personal, corporate or wealth needs, or a combination of all. In Handelsbanken we say ‘the branch is the bank’.

For more:7 Henry Street, BA1 1JR; 01225 311222; sicr01@handelsbanken. co.uk; www.handelsbanken.co.uk/bath

“CUSTOMER SATISFACTION SITS AT THE VERY HEART OF HANDELSBANKEN’S BUSINESS MODEL” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 17

ADVERTISING FEATURE UNIVIDUAL

Scott Gurd, APFS chartered financial planner

PATENT ATTORNEYS

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of?

Qualifying to become a Chartered advice firm as well as personally a Chartered Financial Planner will always be one of my top achievements. Becoming Chartered is the gold standard in many industries and one of the highest levels of qualification you can get as a financial adviser. It instils confidence in my clients that I have the extensive and up to date knowledge to provide them the advice they need on money matters. More recently though, we were awarded the Pension Transfer Gold Standard and then at the end of last year, myself and Greg Harris were named by New Model Adviser as two of their Top 35 Financial Advisers under 35. It is great that a family-run ambitious business like Unividual can achieve these accolades and put Bath on the map for financial advice.

What challenges are your clients facing?

A lot of people don’t class themselves as investors but in reality most of us are, even if we simply have a work-place pension. It doesn’t matter what is happening in the world, whether its Coronavirus, flooding or Brexit, if it impacts the economy, it has the ability to impact your financial situation. Especially in the short term these challenges can often be an unnerving experience. When you couple that with changes to government legislation and the simple fact that we are living longer, it is no wonder the need for financial advice is at peak demand for people making life changing decisions year on year. Especially as companies like Unividual are helping people realise that you don’t have to be “rich” to need a financial adviser and advice can be affordable.

Clients face challenges. We help clients understand and learn, but most importantly, we are that proactive voice and helping hand that navigates clients through the good times and the harder times, educating them on when to make decisions, but equally when to sit tight and not make rash choices.

For more: Sterling House, Upper Bristol Rd, Bath BA1 3AN; 0330 353 0150; www.unividual.co.uk

BRYERS LLP

Tina Rees-Pedlar, Trade Mark & Design attorney Tell us a little about your business:

We specialise in assisting clients with intellectual property (IP) matters, whether that involves inventions, designs, branding or other implementations of ideas important to a business. We work with companies operating in different industries and in different countries, and with people having all sorts of different backgrounds.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our philosophy is to be approachable and pragmatic, so that people feel comfortable to contact us with whatever IP related query they have, whenever they have it. We pride ourselves on tailored services, visiting our clients regularly. Our recommendations are more effective the more we understand the relevant commercial circumstances, and so we like to stay in regular contact with our clients so we can learn of any changes that may alter our advice sooner rather than later. Although we are based in Bath, we are happy to travel or to use conferencing technology to avoid our office location becoming a barrier to establishing and maintaining business relations.

What makes working in Bath special?

“A LOT OF PEOPLE DON’T CLASS THEMSELVES AS INVESTORS BUT IN REALITY MOST OF US ARE” 18 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

I have worked in many of the UK’s large cities, but Bath is greatest location I have ever worked in. I have been working in Bath for 4 years and always in awe of a buildings in the city, the general cleanliness of the streets, the magnificent parks and greenery on our doorstep. Bath also has a wide variety of Festivals, Our team of attorneys have Community and Charity an exceptional set of skills outside of their day to day events, you cannot avoid jobs, and consists of: whilst working in Bath and • A Championship Horse almost always join in. Bath Jumper is an exceptional city with a • A FA Qualified Football sense of Community, and that Coach is why I believe it is one the • A Professional DJ best locations to work.

• A Custos Testudo For more: 7 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 • A Scuba Diving Instructor 2PH; 01225 428877; post@ bryerlaw.com; www.bryerlaw.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE PROPERTY AARON EVANS ARCHITECTS LTD Kevin Murphy RIBA, managing director Tell us a little about your business

Aaron Evans Architects is a multi-award winning, architectural practice based in the centre of Bath. We provide full architectural, heritage, project management and master-planning services to a wide range of clients including individual property owners, private companies, charities, developers and PLCs. We can offer you expert advice regardless of project size or value. In 2018 we won the inaugural ‘Bath Property Award’ for Architect and the ‘Bath Life Award’ for Property in 2019.

What areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in securing highly sensitive and complex planning and listed building consents. We are experts at delivering challenging projects in Bath, the south-west and throughout the UK in similar planning environments. We work in the residential, both new build and conversion of listed buildings, as well as education, commercial and retail development sectors. In fact, any project that requires an imaginative, viable and sustainable solution. We enjoy a challenge!

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

We are specialists in Bath. Our unrivalled planning track record and extensive archive of projects, built and unbuilt, provide us with a unique insight into development in the city. There are few sites in Bath for which we have not prepared either a masterplan or a design proposal in the past 40 years. Alongside DID YOU KNOW? this, we undertake smaller, Many of us are University bespoke commissions and of Bath alumni, three of us studied together in the 80s. have delivered over 100 listed Long standing employee, building consents in the city.

Mark Wooding, is currently For more: Aaron Evans Architects building his own self-build, Ltd, 3 Gay Street, Bath BA1 2PH; eco-house.

01225 466234; kevinm@aaronevans.com; www.aaronevans.com

BATH LEASEHOLD MANAGEMENT Sarah Dedakis, managing director Tell us a little about your business?

We are independent, block managers providing proactive, communicative and transparent leasehold management services including managing service charges, company accounts, day to day and planned maintenance whilst adhering to and keeping abreast of the ever-changing and complex leasehold legislation.

We manage a variety of buildings in the South West from Georgian conversions to purpose-built luxury apartment blocks.

Tell us about your community/charity involvement…

We feel it is imperative to ‘give something back’ to the community so we pledge to donate 5% of our net profit to charities. Given that humans make up only 0.01% of life on Earth, we feel that looking after and protecting the wonderful animals on our planet is imperative. We help via our donations to perhaps those lesser known charities and Sarah is also a trustee of a charity and volunteers as Financial Officer for a notfor-profit organisation.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Many owners of leasehold property feel that running a Residents Management Company is as straightforward as arranging cleaning and the occasional ‘odd job’ along with simply filing the annual accounts.

The truth is far from this in that Leasehold legislation is extremely complex and confusing and owners are putting themselves and their asset at risk by not being conversant with the rule and regulations that must be followed when carrying out management company activities.

Lack of knowledge is no defence so we can remove the stress and provide effective and compliant management.

Did You Know?

We help our planet by using only electric vehicles during our course of business.

For more: 3 Chapel Row, Bath BA1 1HN; office@sarahdedakis.co.uk; 01225 632179; www.bathleaseholdmanagement.co.uk

“WE FEEL IT IS IMPERATIVE TO GIVE SOMETHING BACK TO THE COMMUNITY” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 19

ADVERTISING FEATURE KNIGHT FRANK

Sam Daniels, senior negotiator

Tell us a little about your business…

Knight Frank deals with property across the world and is proud to be a private partnership. We believe taking a personal approach is crucial when interacting with our clients as it gives us a detailed understanding of how we can connect them with the perfect property, be it residential or commercial.

What predictions do you have for the sector in 2020?

Current predictions remain difficult in light of the current situation with Covid-19 however 2020 has started of very strong. Within Bath and the surrounding areas we anticipate seeing the continued release of the pent up demand we saw building in 2018 from buyers and sellers.

Looking ahead at Knight Frank’s market forecast we can see that growth within the UK and locally isn’t as strong as it has been over the past years prior to Brexit, however the South West predictions show a 1% increase in 2020 and a 3% in 2021, seeing the South West with a 15% increase over the next the 5 years.

What areas do you specialise in?

I specialise within the city market of Bath, whether it is an apartment or a house, dealing with the core and prime properties. We also have a very strong country team that deal with properties outside of the city.

Please do not hesitate to contact us for any property related enquires.

We would love to help.

Did You Know?

Knight Frank sold Stonehenge to Cecil Chubb as a present to his wife.

She gifted it to the nation three years later.

For more: 4 Wood Street, Queen Square, Bath BA1 2JQ; 01225 325992; +44 7811 849 628; sam.daniels@knightfrank.com; www.knightfrank.com

“KNIGHT FRANK DEALS WITH PROPERTY ACROSS THE WORLD AND IS PROUD TO BE A PRIVATE PARTNERSHIP”

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 21

Dedicated to finding the most secure, long-term outcome for separating and divorcing clients

Family transitions, including divorce, are difficult.

Protecting what matters most in uncertain times

The way you divorce or resolve your family matter shouldn’t add to the turmoil. Many people who come to us are looking to reach settlements that protect the best interests of both them and their children, for the long term.

Call, Skype, FaceTime Richard Sharp to find out how our experienced family lawyers can guide you towards a constructive outcome that enables you and your family to move on with life.

Bath 01225 448955/ 07798 606740 4 Queen Street, Bath, BA1 1HE richard@sharpfamilylaw.com

Office also in Bristol www.sharpfamilylaw.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE SAVILLS

Luke Brady, director – head of Bath office and southern residential division Tell us a little about your business?

Savills is one of the world’s leading property companies offering multidiscipline expertise in the city of Bath and surrounding countryside.

When was your firm founded and who by?

Savills was founded by Alfred Savill (1829 – 1905) who set up the business at Rood Lane, London in 1855 as “Savill and Son”. For over 160 years, we’ve offered outstanding property, specialist services and expert advice to clients, helping them with their property decisions and ambitions. Savills now has 600 offices worldwide with over 39,000 employees. Savills Bath opened in 1989 and is a flagship office for the company.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

MEA CHARTERED QUANTITY SURVEYORS Mark Saint, director

Tell us a little about your business

MEA is a practice of Construction Consultants providing Project Management, Quantity Surveying and Building Surveying services.

We work throughout the UK for a wide variety of clients in both the Private and Public sectors. Our experience covers new build, refurbishment, alterations and conservation work.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

Busy… but in a really good way! We moved from Chippenham where we had been for 25 years to Central Bath. This has proved to be a great move as we are quickly establishing ourselves here and are working with some fantastic new clients.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

We have a reputation for being proactive project team members. We recognise the true value of teamwork - from experience, successful projects are founded on collaboration.

What makes working in Bath special?

Bath is a city with a significant number of architects, so it works well on a practical level. We love working in this city. One of the most rewarding aspects is the ability to walk to project meetings. Not only does it mean that we can be there very quickly and easily, without harming our planet, but it also contributes to our well-being by getting the opportunity for a bit of fresh air and exercise in one of the most beautiful cities in the world.

Did You Know?

Our sister company ‘Building Schools for Nothing’ also operates from our Bath office.

For more: 26 Queen Square, Bath BA1 2HX; 01225 337793; southwest@ meaconsult.co.uk; www.meaconsult.co.uk

“WE HAVE A REPUTATION FOR BEING PROACTIVE PROJECT TEAM MEMBERS” 24 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

Savills Bath provides multi-discipline cross-sector advice to help clients achieve their property needs from residential, rural and commercial sales to development, planning and even renewable technologies.

Savills offer over fifty service lines worldwide. 100% client focussed, Savills is the only organisation that seeks feedback via questionnaire from every buyer and seller in order to continually strive for excellence.

Savills Bath is one of the company’s top ten residential businesses in the country. We have been involved in the changing shape of the city advising clients on the planning, disposal and development of key brownfield sites in the city including the MOD sites, Bath Riverside, Hope House and Walcot Yard.

For more: Edgar House, 17 George Street, Bath, BA1 2EN; bath@savills.com; 01225 474500; www.savills.co.uk/estate-agents/savills-bath.aspx

“SAVILLS IS THE ONLY ORGANISATION THAT SEEKS FEEDBACK VIA QUESTIONNAIRE FROM EVERY BUYER AND SELLER”

ADVERTISING FEATURE MEETINGS AND CONFERENCE VENUES BEST WESTERN PLUS CENTURION HOTEL Mark Manley, general manager

Tell us a little about your business?

We are a 45 bedroom 4 star hotel, nine miles south of Bath. We have 3 conference rooms, restaurant, health club and a 9 hole parkland golf course. Our conference rooms will cater for 2 – 120 delegates in various room layouts.

When was your firm founded and who by?

In 1918 L&F Jones was founded & started as a confectionary business, which was a big hit in our local villages. Catherine Jones named the company after her two daughters, Leona & Francis.

In 1978 Fosseway golf club was purchased with a 9 hole golf course.

The Centurion hotel was built alongside the Fosseway country club & opened in 1987 with 17 bedrooms & our first conference room. In April 1991 this was enlarged to 44 bedrooms with additional conference rooms.

Our hotel joined Best Western in 2007, in 2011 we achieved our PLUS status - only the 11th hotel in the UK to achieve this accreditation at this time.

SRA ARCHITECTS LLP Emily Giles

How have the last 12 months been for you?

Tell us a little about your business?

At SRA Architects we employ a simple but effective creative approach that steers our thinking and informs all our design work. It is only by listening and understanding the needs and aspirations of our Clients that we can fulfil their creative vision. By questioning ideas and processes we can find solutions which are successful, sustainable and often surprising. Designing is what excites and inspires us. Sharing this passion with our Clients makes the creative journey enlightening and enjoyable. Our values determine the way we work and are the driving force that helps us achieve our aspirations as a Practice for our Clients.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of proud of?

In architecture, achieving simplicity is not easy. It takes commitment, clear focus and creative thinking. We believe and specialise in the positive impact of simplicity. Simple architecture costs less to build, is delivered more quickly and is easier to maintain over a building’s long life. Simplicity delivers award-winning solutions that meet the requirements of our Clients, as well as looking beautiful. We see our finished buildings as a celebration of a journey taken. We are proud of the creation of a simple and elegant solution that’s a joy to use and which stands the test of time.

Due to the continued increase in our conference business within the last 12 months, we are constantly updating our offerings. With the recent release of our new buffet lunch menus.

Our 24 hour day delegate rate includes – Room hire, tea & coffee, bottled water, hydo-juice, fruit bowl, buffet lunch, visual aids, AV equipment & stationery. Evening meal & an overnight stay with breakfast.

Did You Know?

Our Matrix equipment used in our on-site gym is also used by the Redbull F1 team!!

Our Head Chef Sean Horwood has achieved 2 AA rosettes for our restaurant!!

For more: Best Western Centurion Hotel, Charlton Lane, Radstock, BA3 4BD; enquiries@centurionhotel.co.uk; 01761 417711; www.centurionhotel.co.uk

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Making the architectural journey simple, rewarding and enjoyable for the Client and design team. To make this possible, we choose the most suitable team of people for every project, so we can deliver the best solution for our Clients. Each member of the team brings a fresh perspective. We exchange our thoughts and views positively, pushing each other to develop new skills, share knowledge and celebrate our landmark moments together. It is important to us that we deliver an architectural journey that is enjoyable. To us, a collaborative approach to the design and construction of all projects is key. Through hard work, commitment and creative flair we deliver elegant architecture that is both considered and distinct.

DID YOU KNOW? Some of our Clients have been working with us for over 25 years, since the formation of the practice.

For more: Queen Square House, Charlotte Street, Bath BA1 2LL; 01225 827444; www.sra-architects.co.uk

“IN 1978 FOSSEWAY GOLF CLUB WAS PURCHASED WITH A 9 HOLE GOLF COURSE” www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 25

BSc MRICS Chartered Surveyor Mark Vincent Surveying provides surveying and valuation advice on residential properties primarily across North Somerset, Bath and North-East Somerset and West Wiltshire. As a Member of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors (RICS) and with experience of properties ranging from modest studio apartments through to multi-million pound country estates, Mark’s advice is impartial and provides peace of mind to his clients.

Operating in and around Bath, Bradford-on-Avon, Bristol, Frome, Midsomer Norton, Shepton Mallet, Trowbridge, Warminster, Wells & Westbury – Mark provides a wide range of services related to the value and condition of residential property, including: • Homebuyers reports • Building Surveys • Valuations Mark is independent of estate agents and financial institutions which means he gives unbiased advice and can offer complete peace of mind with Professional Indemnity Insurance cover to RICS requirements.

mark@mvsurveying.co.uk 07922 557100 | 01225 581591 www.mvsurveying.co.uk

1-07, 3 Edgar Buildings, George Street, Bath BA1 2FJ

It’s all about peace of mind…

Bath based since 1992

This is what cavity wall tie failure, due to corrosion, is

ADVERTISING FEATURE CHADWICK BUSINESS CENTRES Richard Douglas, managing director Tell us a little about your business?

Chadwick Business Centres is a serviced office operator established nearly 6 years ago as a spin-off from Chadwick Holdings, a private property investment and business funding company.

We currently have 10 centres across the UK with our Trim Street site in Bath having launched at the end of 2019.

Rather than having a standard ‘one size fits all’ template, all our locations are different and unique. We focus on working with property partners for sourcing our opportunities and then developing a theme around the location, building style and market dynamics.

We operate out of large multi-storey tower blocks, stand-alone modern developments, converted snooker halls and all things in-between.

In Bath we operate from a beautiful Grade II listed building, which adds to our eclectic portfolio!

What plans do you have for 2020 and beyond?

We plan to steadily grow the business into the long-term to develop a national network with representation in all key cities and markets and to expand those that we already operate in.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our clients and business partners often tell us that it’s our staff.

We asked our team to articulate what it was they felt made our business a unique place to work. The overwhelming consensus boiled down to ‘Relationships, Integrity, Commitment and Excellence’.

We strive to make these our guiding principles in terms of all business dealings, both externally and internally.

DID YOU KNOW? We also provide funding for start-up businesses and entrepreneurs in the property sector.

For more: Chadwick House, 6 Hallam Road, Clevedon, N. Somerset BS21 7SF, sales@chadwickbc.co.uk; 01275 795395; www.chadwickbc.co.uk

www.mediaclash.co.uk I BATH LIFE I 27

We are a specialist law firm providing advice in all areas of intellectual property protection and enforcement, including:

 PATENTS  TRADE MARKS  DESIGNS  COPYRIGHT 

Our personalised services are tailored to fit your business, helping you to achieve your commercial goals 7 Gay Street, Bath, BA1 2PH

01225 428877

www.bryerlaw.com

post@bryerlaw.com

bryers

@BryersLLP

ADVERTISING FEATURE BUSINESS SERVICES BATH BUSINESS WOMEN’S ASSOCIATION Julie Cooper, BBWA chairwoman

Tell us a little about your business?

Established in 1996 by Debbie Hobbs, Bath Business Women’s Association is a not-for-profit organisation run by a volunteer committee of business women. The aim is to provide a friendly, supportive forum for like-minded women to network and share business experience in an informal setting. Membership is free and the benefits of belonging to BBWA include monthly networking events, newsletter and the chance to exchange ideas and information with others.

What plans do you have for 2020 and beyond?

BBWA celebrates its 25th anniversary in 2021 – a quarter century of networking is something to shout about! We’ll be launching a new logo and branding, plans include a black tie dinner and guest speaker as well as our usual monthly networking in some great venues. Watch this space!

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

There are many women’s networking groups; each has its place. BBWA puts no pressure on any member but encourages everyone to make others aware of who they are and what they do. We are proud to support those just starting out as well as those in long established businesses.

Free membership means open to all. Membership is 600 strong which means an immense amount of sharing, laughter and hopefully, everyone leaving with that feel-good factor. (85) For more: julie.cooper@bbwa.com; 07730 132 330; www.bbwa.biz

DID YOU KNOW? BBWA makes a point of networking with 6th formers from Bath Royal High? This gives a chance for them to talk about their ambitions as well as giving an insight into business as they start their working lives outside school.

A popular event, often talking to over sixty young people. Sharing knowledge is a great experience for everyone!

BATH PRESTIGE HIRE LTD Daniel Reid, director

Tell us a little about your business?

Bath Prestige Hire Ltd offers prestige vehicle hire to Bath and the surrounding areas. The business was founded in 2019 with the aim of offering a luxury service synonymous with the City of Bath.

What areas do you specialise in?

We specialise in self-drive hire and we also offer chauffeur services.

Our cars include a Ferrari 488 Spider and a Porsche 911 Carrera 4S. All vehicles can be hired for as little as 24hrs, or as long as a week.

The chauffeur service is tailored to the exacting requirements of each individual customer.

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Price and service. We are the most competitively priced business of this type in the UK. The service we offer is bespoke to each customer, which includes delivery and collection to the customer’s chosen location/s as standard. We are confident that you won’t find better value or better customer service anywhere else!

Did You Know?

We sell gift vouchers – why not treat someone to the ultimate experience! Gift vouchers can also be purchased for our chauffeur service, for those who might prefer the passenger seat. Both the Ferrari and the Porsche are remarkably straightforward to drive, seemingly just as much at home driving around town as they are on a deserted country road.

For more: daniel@bathprestigehire.co.uk; 07969 035943; www.bathprestigehire.co.uk

“OUR CARS INCLUDE A FERRARI 488 SPIDER AND A PORSCHE 911 CARRERA 4S” 30 I BATH LIFE I www.mediaclash.co.uk

High Quality Dry Cleaning and Laundry Services Roadside parking outside shop for loading/unloading

CURTAIN CLEANING 20% DISCOUNT Van service available 6 Monmouth Place, Bath BA1 2AU Tel 01225 311595

We produce a wide range of creative events for businesses, individuals and cities, including: • • • • • • • • • •

Product launches Gala dinners Awards evenings Charity auctions Business meetings Experiential events Team building days Private events & parties Citywide public art events Exclusive motorsport & powerboat experiences • Research and development • Project management

To discuss ideas for your next event, email megan@wittyevents.co.uk or phone us on 01225 340697 We'd love to hear from you!

www.wittyevents.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE CANDO CLEANERS Kamil Bryla, director

Tell us a little about your business?

I started Cando Cleaners when I realised there was a need for a more proactive approach to office cleaning in Bath as some of our clients explained how their previous cleaners lacked in consistency.

Our business is all about the “can-do” attitude so it made sense to incorporate that in its name (also the pun sounded too good to pass on!).

One of our goals as a company is to really advocate for cleaning and its importance as it is often underestimated. We use non-toxic cleaning products, eco-friendly procedures and provide our team with all the training to ensure our clients receive a fully bespoke service and well maintained working space. With passion and the right attitude we are here to really put efficient commercial cleaning on the map.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

The last twelve months have been excellent. We had growth as a company and hired even more skilful, passionate people to join our amazing team. We started new contracts with an array of clients whose feedback and rapport with are excellent.

What plans do you have for 2020 and beyond?

2020 will mark our expansion on a nationwide scale starting with Manchester and Liverpool. Of course, we do love Bath as our hometown and plan on growing our presence and getting more involved in all the events and charity work happening in the city throughout the year.

Did You Know?

We have quite a few well known clients in Bath who have trusted us in keeping their workplaces the best they can be, including MediaClash, publishers of Bath Life Magazine.

For more: 9 Stirtingale Avenue Bath, BA2 2NQ; 01225 292 404

CITY TAILORS Ben Aydin, partner Who Are you?

Founded by my brother Mehmet and I in 2010, we’ve been a business at the heart of Bath city, providing bespoke tailoring for ladies and gentleman, dressmaking, offering clothing alterations for general public, local retailers and boutiques.

What’s special about the way you work?

Quality of our service and work is well known by clients, our ethos is based on understanding your needs, good listener and working together to provide you with seamless, complimentary tailoring service.

Mehmet and I have a wide range of experience including clothing manufacturing & training from Saville Row tailors, this gives us the expertise to deal with all tailoring requirements. Having a large team on site gives us ability to carry out most challenging work in short deadlines.

What are you looking forward to in 2020?

We are looking forward to expanding our made to measure suit service to ladies suits and casual wear, to increase the number of team members.

How have the last year been for you?

“ONE OF OUR GOALS AS A COMPANY IS TO REALLY ADVOCATE FOR CLEANING AND ITS IMPORTANCE AS IT IS OFTEN UNDERESTIMATED”

DID YOU KNOW? We are the only bespoke tailors in Bath and the south west who offer handmade suits to both ladies and gentleman, all suits are designed and made on the premises using the finest British fabrics.

We are one of few places in UK who can carry out vintage clothing restorations.

It has been a great year for us, we launched our made to measure suit service, offering more affordable alternative to the bespoke/handmade for those on lower budget but wants to have the experience of having a tailor made suit.

For more: 25 Milsom Street, Bath BA1 1DG; info@citytailors.co.uk; 01225920263; www.citytailors.co.uk

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THE ACCESSIBLE, INFORMED AND CARING ACCOUNTANT RELATIONSHIP YOU AND YOUR BUSINESS NEED With an average of 9.5 years’ service at the firm, our team provides business owners across the West Country with a familiar and knowledgeable relationship.

The kind that helps your business grow as well as providing the personal support you need throughout your journey as the owner.

Our investment in understanding you and your business means we deliver the financial insights you need to make informed business decisions, deflect potential issues and develop a high-performing team.

Call 01249 712074 to find out more.

Clear Vision Accountancy Limited 1 Abacus House Newlands Road Corsham SN13 0BH www.clearvisionaccountancygroup.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE DATASHARP INTEGRATED COMMUNICATIONS Brad Snow

Tell us a little about your business

I wish there was a simple way to summarise! We’re a business communications company based in Bath. Our areas of expertise are VoIP phone systems, Internet connectivity, network security, business mobile phones and video conferencing together with the consultancy, design and deployment skills required to bring these technologies together and create the best solutions for our clients.

We like to build solid and long-lasting relationships with our customers by understanding their business goals, (saving money, securing against the latest cyber threats, saving travel time by using video conferencing, etc.) and by providing exceptional maintenance and support services once the installation of a new system is complete.

What challenges are your clients facing?

There are some huge challenges associated with creating flexible environments that allow staff to work, communicate and collaborate with colleagues easily - both inside and outside the workplace - while, simultaneously managing the security around those environments.

Cybersecurity is always a big talking point. We’ve helped many clients manage their network security requirements and it continues to be one of the most important growth areas for us.

Also, many modern businesses are embracing video conferencing but the key to successful deployment is breaking down the barriers to adoption by making sure users understand the benefits it offers and making meetings super easy to join, without needing to get the IT Dept involved. Face-to-face meetings won’t be disappearing any time soon but being able to connect people quickly and efficiently by removing the traditional constraints of time and distance can have a huge impact on productivity. And these days, that means on every device – even the phone in your pocket!

What sets you apart from others in your sector?

Our keen focus on customer service keeps our partners happy and we have a fantastic 1,000 sq ft technology centre at our office that allows our clients to come and get hands-on with the 30+ technology solutions that we provide.

Our dedicated support team routinely solves issues within a few minutes of them being raised. They either become an extension of internal teams or clients can outsource their support needs to us completely.

Most importantly, we retain our clients for many years, so we must be doing something right!

For more: 08000 328274; www.datasharp-ic.co.uk

IGNITION STRATEGIC DESIGN Adam Lloyd-Smith, director

Tell us a little about your business?

We’re a brand communications agency based in the centre of Bath, with a client list ranging from a FTSE 100 retailer with operations in nine different countries to smaller local businesses and entrepreneurial sole traders.

We help our clients to establish and grow relationships with their customers through strategic thinking, exciting ideas and beautiful design. We enhance reputations and change opinions. We balance creativity with commercial objectives.

We make brands better.

What achievement as a firm are you most proud of proud of?

Sometimes challenge can bring out the best in you. We finalised a management buy-out of Ignition in 2007 three weeks before the financial crash - great timing! But an agile repositioning of the agency (concentrating on our core strengths) and two years of long hours, creative excellence and a number of significant business wins resulted in a steadied ship, a wider client base and a more focused offering.

Describe your offices?

Our studio is in The Old School House attached to St. John’s Church, just off Manvers Street. It’s been our home and inspiration for almost 25 years and, like any old building, the layout is ‘quirky’ but packed with DID YOU KNOW? character. It’s centrally located We’re sponsors of Bath City and provides amazing views FC, with our logo sitting across the city - we love it here. proudly on their shorts. We love supporting our local club and fingers crossed they end the season with promotion. COYR!!

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For more: The Old School House, St Johns Court, South Parade, Bath BA2 4AF; 01225 444174; www.ignition.uk.com

ADVERTISING FEATURE WITTY EVENT MANAGEMENT LTD Megan Witty, events director

Tell us a little about your business?

We produce a wide range of creative events, from product launches, to gala dinners, charity auctions, product sampling, pop-up cinemas, private parties, outdoor festivals, business meetings, team-building events and exclusive motor sport and powerboat experiences. Owned by former ITV and BBC producer Megan Witty, we are probably best known for organising the popular Owls, Lions and Pigs of Bath sculpture trails, which raised £350,000 for local charities.

What makes working in Bath special?

The World Heritage city, with its stunning crescents, festivals, independent shops and surrounding countryside is a wonderful place to work, but what really brings it to life is the incredible variety of leading tech, cultural and creative businesses hidden away behind the Georgian facades.

How have the last 12 months been for you?

Busy! We produced a series of pop-up sampling events from a converted tuk-tuk at venues such as Tobacco Dock, Olympia and the NEC for the world’s largest brewer, AB InBev. We also organised the ‘Lions of Windsor 2019’ sculpture trail, which featured a giant pride of supersized lions decorated by leading artists and designers, including Dame Zandra Rhodes, displayed across Windsor to celebrate Queen Victoria’s 200th anniversary.

Did You Know?

Witty Events organised an ‘Evening with Boris Johnson’ charity auction when he was Mayor of London and produced the annual ‘24 Hours in Bristol’ photographic competition, which saw 10,000 photos of the city taken on competition day each year.

For more: megan@wittyevents.co.uk; 01225 340697; www.wittyevents.co.uk

OJO SOLUTIONS

Nathan Baranowski, managing director Tell us a little about your business?

We are an award-winning team of techies, digital creatives and strategists, who provide strategic digital thinking and beautifully crafted technology to help people see what’s possible and make it happen.

OJO is at the forefront of innovation, solving our client’s problems of today and fuelling their ambitions for tomorrow. Incubating start-ups that seek to disrupt the norm, enabling enterprises – small and large – to maximise their digital potential, to punch above their weight, and enabling charities to do more with less and deliver greater impact for their cause.

What areas do you specialise in?

We love everything digital and know how to take wacky ideas and messy problems and transform them into positive digital strategies that impact on behaviors and shape people’s futures. Creating and building beautifully designed, functionally rich user experiences, that uniquely knit digital solutions and experiences using existing and bespoke technology, so that you can achieve your goals faster Tell us about your community/charity involvement…

Through 2019 we have continued to support charities to do more with technology, donating free time to local and national charities to enable them to strategically understand their digital potential. This has included donating £15K of studio time to develop Helifun a fundraising game for Wiltshire Air Ambulance which has enabled them to engage new supporters and attract new funds. To top that off Nathan, ran 100K for the charity raising £6,812!

“WE ARE PROBABLY BEST KNOWN FOR ORGANISING THE POPULAR OWLS, LIONS AND PIGS OF BATH SCULPTURE TRAILS”

DID YOU KNOW? We have big plans for 2020 and they start with a move into the centre of Bath. We look forward to hosting you at our “new home” party later this spring!

For more: The Old Gas Warehouse, Bradford on Avon; nathanb@ ojosolutions.com; 01225 220 155; www.ojosolutions.com

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• Complete tailoring service for ladies and gentleman • Alterations and Repairs on all Garments • Made To Measure Suits and Shirts • Bespoke / handmade Suits and Separates • Ladies bespoke tailoring • Bridal wear and Evening wear Alterations • Re-sizing and Re-Designing Suits and Dresses • Replicating your old favourite clothing

25 Milsom Street, Bath, BA1 1DG

t: 01225 920 263

info@citytailors.co.uk

www.citytailors.co.uk

ADVERTISING FEATURE TRANSFORM COMMUNICATIONS LTD Veronica Hannon, managing director Tell us a little about your business?

We are a thought leadership consultancy. What does that mean? Well, we help you build your authority through great communications. Our content is not light or fluffy. Instead, we deal with serious subjects in a highly engaging way. We’re pretty serious practitioners ourselves.

Decades of experience means we get your business. That’s why we say we will transform your communications.

What areas do you specialise in?

We love working with dynamic and ambitious B2B organisations who are scaling-up, growing, in a period of change, or looking to exit. You will benefit from our insight and intelligence that brings your marketing communications to life.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Being heard in a noisy market is one of the greatest challenges for our clients, especially ambitious companies who want to grow quickly.

It might be you want to engage potential clients, increase visits to your website, build up your database of prospects, or demonstrate your knowledge and expertise through the media and influencers. Great content is what helps cut through that noise and engage your market.

SOS DESIGN

Did You Know?

David Rutty, creative director

Tell us a little about your business?

“It’s less about us and more about you” - even though we are promoting ourselves today we are first and foremost, unwaveringly, client focused.

This enables us to deliver meaningful, accountable creative work, developing a strong working relationship with our clients resulting in a greater understanding of their business requirements and objectives.

The results are evident in our continued success with many long term, happy clients.

We’re a team of 5 women and one man (the one and the only Mr Daniel O’Connor). Yet, we have three male brains and three female brains between us. Curious? Find out more check on LinkedIn #allthebrains For more: 54 Frome Road, Bradford on Avon, BA15 1LA; veronica@ transformcommunications.co.uk; 01225 863846; www.transformcommunications.co.uk

What plans do you have for 2020?

2020 is an exciting year for us as we will be celebrating our 20th year!

Reaching 20 in 2020 provides a great springboard for us to spend time refreshing, relaunching and driving ourselves forward for the next phase of the business. We’ve started the year with some exciting projects including support of the ‘Billy Chip’ - a local social initiative helping the homeless.

What challenges are your clients facing?

Well, apart from the continued uncertainty that we have experienced in the UK and globally over the last few years; I think the big challenge for clients now is how best to communicate DID YOU KNOW? with their customers and One of our key strengths are - our photoshoots? We love broader audience. It can be doing them and have been tempting to chase the latest fortunate enough to create platform without considering and produce successful if it actually fits with their photoshoots in the UK customer base. There are and abroad. We specialise no ‘magic bullets’; messages not only in the stills appear across multiple photography; from food channels both on and offline, to architecture, but also it’s choosing the right tools fashion and model shoots. for the audience and using We have certainly met them effectively that delivers some amazing characters positive results. along the way, including the legendary Jerry Hall - she was some character!

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For more: The Granary, Priston Mill, Priston, Bath BA2 9EQ;01225 318366; www.sosdc.co.uk

“BEING HEARD IN A NOISY MARKET IS ONE OF THE GREATEST CHALLENGES FOR OUR CLIENTS”

SERVICED OFFICE SUITES

PRESTIGIOUS CENTRAL VIBRANT MEETING ROOMS VIRTUAL OFFICES 6/7 Trim Street, Bath, BA1 1HB hello@trimstreetbath.co.uk 01275 795 395 www.trimstreetbath.co.uk

COLLIVER CONSULTING HR Support on a retained, hourly or project basis for SMEs HR Services offered: PROJECT WORK

EMPLOYEE RELATIONS

Finding time to focus on people elements can be hard. Colliver Consulting can help you run a variety of HR projects such as job evaluation, benchmarking and behavioural frameworks.

We can provide advice or carry out all manner of employee relations matters such as disciplinary, absence, flexible working, redundancy and grievances.

RECRUITMENT

TRAINING & DEVELOPMENT

Finding the right person is key and we can assist you by screening candidates, interviewing and utilising personality and psychometric tests.

Ensuring a manager knows how to manage is vital and we can customise training to suit your needs.

CONTRACT, HANDBOOK AND POLICIES Ensuring your documentation is up to date and compliant protects both the Company and the individual. We can provide templates or review existing documents.

AND EVERYTHING ELSE Every day advice, maternity queries, mergers and TUPE. Just give us a call and we can assist.

Depending on the work we can offer a retained, hourly or project rate. Contact us to find out more:

07841 401693 | fiona@colliverconsulting.co.uk | www.colliverconsulting.co.uk