Orient Issue 86

THE OFFICIAL MAGAZINE OF THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SINGAPORE ISSUE 86 | APRIL 2022

BUILDING NETWORKS | CONNECTING BUSINESSES | CREATING OPPORTUNITIES

SMALL BUSINESS ADVICE 29

5 key insights on the future-readiness of SMEs

34

What are the business opportunities in ICT enabled water resiliency for SMEs in Singapore?

40

How Can Organisations be Ready for Change?

Learn and Adapt

CONTENTS

Discover the Difference

DE T U

DO R P UN ONS M

PERFORMING ARTS

Pursuit of the arts is a staple of Dulwich life and we devote considerable resources to create opportunities for our students to experience all areas of the arts.

Students have abundant opportunities to experiment and perform, with drama taught as part of the curriculum at IGCSE and IB.

Each year students participate in a range of external drama festivals across Asia, working with professional actors, directors, writers and theatre companies.

collaborative relationships and partnerships with top educational and artistic institutions throughout the world such as The Royal Shakespeare Company.

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President's Message

09

Executive Director's Message

14

News

18

Welcoming New Members

22

Recent Webinars

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Upcoming Events & Webinars

24

Latest from the BritCham Singapore Podcast

26

Incoming Board Members of 2022/23

29

5 key insights on the future-readiness of SMEs

31

The Road to Net-Zero: Sustainable and Responsible Investing

34

What are the business opportunities in ICT enabled water resiliency for SMEs in Singapore?

38

Asia Market Outlook 2022: Are We Ready?

40

How Can Organisations be Ready for Change? Learn and Adapt

42

Member Discounts

44

Chamber Demographics

Editor: Lucy Haydon lucy@britcham.org.sg

ISSN (digital edition): 2810-904X

Co-Editor: Khairil Faisal khairil@britcham.org.sg

Advertising and contribution enquiries to be directed to the Editor

137 Telok Ayer Street, #06-03, Singapore 068602 Tel: +65 6222-3552 Email: info@britcham.org.sg www.britcham.org.sg

singapore.dulwich.org admissions.singapore@dulwich.org (65) 6890 1003

LIVE

Dulwich College (Singapore) CPE Registration Number: 201027137D. Period of Registration: 09 Janurary 2020 to 08 Janurary 2024. School Location: 71 Bukit Batok West Avenue 8, Singapore, 658966

The Orient is a bi-monthly magazine published by the British Chamber of Commerce, Singapore. © All rights reserved.

The views and opinions expressed or implied in Orient are those of the authors or contributors and do not reflect those of the British Chamber of Commerce, its officers or editorial staff. No reproduction of articles without the prior permission of the Chamber. Unsolicited transparencies and articles are sent at owner’s risk and the Chamber accepts no liability for loss or damage. Copy is not for sale and images belong to their respective owners. They are for illustrative purposes only, and no copyright infringement is intended.

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OUR PARTNERS PLATINUM PARTNER

GOLD PARTNERS

SILVER PARTNERS

BRONZE PARTNERS PARTNERS

ETEU TU DD RR

OO DD NN UU PO P ONN S S MM

OUR BOARD

COMMITTEE CHAIRPERSONS

MANAGEMENT TEAM

PRESIDENT:

BUILT ENVIRONMENT: Alisdair Gillies (Chairperson), Andy Marr (Co-Chair)

Executive Director: David Kelly

DIVERSITY & INCLUSION: Andrew Ashman (Chairperson), Anna Liddell (Co-Chair)

Head of Marketing & Communications and Partnerships; Deputy Executive Director: Lucy Haydon

Richard Warburton, Arcadis

VICE-PRESIDENTS:

Fiona Carney, Microsoft Damian Adams, Watson Farley & Williams

SECRETARY:

Haslam Preeston, DFI Jardine Retail Matheson Group / Jardine Matheson

TREASURER: TREASURER: Christina Mason, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

Christina Mason, PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP

BOARD MEMBERS: Angel Cheung-Horenfeldt, BOARD MEMBERS:

Angel Barclays Cheung-Horenfeldt, Barclays James Nesbitt, James Standard Nesbitt, Chartered Bank Standard Chartered Bank Joe Tofield, IBO Tofield, Joe IBO Luciana Vichino, Luciana BarclaysVichino, Barclays Nick Magnus, Nick Dulwich Magnus, College (Singapore) Dulwich College (Singapore) Shivkumar Seerapu, Shivkumar Lloyds BankSeerapu, Corporate Markets Plc Lloyds Bank Corporate Markets Plc Simon Bennett, Simon Swire Pacific Bennett, Offshore Swire Pacific Offshore Steve Firstbrook, Steve Department Firstbrook, for International Trade Department for International Trade Lucy Watkins, Lucy British Watkins, Council British Council

ENERGY & UTILITIES: Tim Rockell (Chairperson), Allard Nooy (Co-Chair), Mark Florance (Co-Chair) FINANCIAL & FINTECH: Mike Rourke (Co-Chair), Francesca McKee (Co-Chair) HEALTHCARE & LIFE SCIENCES: Thalia Georgiou (Chairperson) ICT: Derek Murray (Chairperson), Penny Murphy (Co-Chair), James Price (Co-Chair) LEADERSHIP, TALENT & PROFESSIONAL DEVELOPMENT: Don Rapley (Chairperson), Janelle Gavin (Co-Chair) MARKETING & COMMUNICATIONS: Suzy Goulding (Chairperson), Andrew Clark (Co-Chair) STARTUP, ENTREPRENEUR & SMALL BUSINESS: Vanessa Errington (Chairperson), James Price (Co-Chair) SUSTAINABILITY: Lorena Paglia (Chairperson), Mark Florance (Co-Chair) TRANSPORT, LOGISTICS & SUPPLY CHAIN: Simon Middlebrough (Chairperson), Nicholas Potter (Co-Chair) WOMEN IN BUSINESS: Bee Ling Lua (Chairperson), Liana Attard (Co-Chair)

Head Membership: Clare Hakes Member Relations Administrator: Melissa Ng Member Relations Administrator: Hidayah Suhaimi Head of Events: Helen Starr Events Executive: Caitrin Moh Marketing & Communications Executive: Khairil Faisal Finance Manager: Radhika Chauhan Office Manager: Anna C Garciso

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Message from the President

Dear Members, This issue of the Orient will be published in the same week as our Annual General Meeting, which is an important event in the BritCham calendar where we reflect on all that we have achieved as a Chamber over the last 12 months. This AGM is also the point that I step down as President of the Chamber, having been on the Board for eight years.

Choose the path that is best for you.

Richard Warburton President, British Chamber of Commerce Singapore richard@britcham.org.sg

As the only school in Singapore to offer the choice of A Levels or the IB Diploma in Sixth Form, Tanglin Trust School students can thrive and flourish by studying the programme that most suits them; either the specialist study of three to four subjects or a broad and balanced programme of six subjects.

Maybe, in time it will be refered to as the ‘Covid Presidency’, as unfortunately Covid has dominated everything that has happened during my term, with the exception of the first few months. I recall the discussions with David and the Chamber team whether we should cancel the New Year networking drinks at the end of January 2020, just as news of the virus started to emerge. We didn’t, and it was a sold-out event, but little did we realise that this would be our last unlimited numbers networking event until this AGM. I am immensely proud of how the Chamber has pivoted it’s offering, reacted to the needs of the members, and proactively addressed the prevailing constraints we all found ourselves in. I believe that the Chamber has emerged stronger, more agile and set up for ongoing success, and I am honoured to have played my small part in ensuring the health and longevity of the Chamber.

With the appointment of Damian Adams as President, I know the Chamber has a great leader, and I am pleased to have served alongside Damian for many years on the Board.

Our students’ examination results are outstanding, consistently surpassing Singapore and global averages, with 95% of graduates typically receiving their first or second choice university, which are among the best in the world. But that’s not the full story.

The success of the Chamber is down to the whole community, and members supporting and being there for fellow members.

I do want to say a big personal thank you to David, the Chamber team, Board and ExCo (current and past members), and Kara, Steve and Natalie. Thank you for all your support – it has been very much appreciated - and I shall miss our time together.

Going to school is also about developing a community of lifelong learners, whether it be through sports, the arts, outdoor education or the multitude of other opportunities students embrace. With the support of our dedicated and experienced staff, everyone gets a chance to find their passion, to be part of our dynamic community, and to achieve their personal best.

Best Regards,

Visit www.tts.edu.sg

CPE Reg. No. 196100114C (7/6/2017 - 6/6/2023)

MESSAGE FROM THE PRESIDENT

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COURAGE

Message from the Executive Director Dear Members, Welcome to the April edition of the Orient which focusses on the small business community in Singapore.

Small businesses form an integral part of not only the Chamber membership, but the wider Singapore economy. Small businesses in Singapore employ around 70% of the local workforce, and make up 99% of enterprises.

IS WHAT DEFINES US AT STAMFORD We empower our students to pursue their passion and express who they are. We embrace risk and failure as a way to learn and grow. Our students have the courage to stand up for what is right. They press on, no matter the obstacles, to achieve their goals. We are Stamford. A unique community where students find their greatness and thrive.

Scan here to experience the magic of Stamford American International School

David Kelly Executive Director, British Chamber of Commerce Singapore david@britcham.org.sg

Certainly, over the past two years, the Chamber team has seen an increase in enquiries from the smaller business community.

Whether this has been to help navigate policy changes (such as the LOC amendment in 2021 and latterly the recent COMPASS framework), support the process of work pass renewals and applications, travel advice throughout the disruption or connecting members with other businesses remotely, the Chamber team and I have been doing what we can to support the companies here that need us.

We have been working more closely with the Singapore Business Federation – a relationship that under the stewardship of their CEO, Lam Yi Young, I believe can support smaller businesses by helping to connect other parts of the business landscape to make meaningful partnerships.

Through our trade services programme over the last eight years, we have helped around 2000 smaller businesses in the UK to explore Singapore and ASEAN as a market and something the Chamber is keen to continue supporting going forward.

I hope that you have noticed the increased engagement with the Singapore Government over the last two years in particular. We have been privileged to host events with the Ministry of Trade and Industry, Ministry of Manpower, Ministry of Sustainability and the Environment and Ministry of Home Affairs, providing real-time updates and an opportunity for members to engage in meaningful dialogues, especially for those who only have access to these discussions via the Chamber.

Our Start-up, Entrepreneur and Small Business committee is one of the gems of the Chamber – a forum for smaller businesses to engage, share and develop collectively. It has been a pleasure to see how this committee has supported members and helped to guide members through the last two years. We value all of our members and partners, but if you’re a small business reading this, you have a permanent professional home at the Chamber.

We continue to strive to understand your needs, and do what we can to ensure you are as connected as possible to the economic and political environment to help you to thrive here.

My best,

21/2/2020 – 20/2/2024

Stamford American International School CPE Registration Number: 200823594D Period of registration: August 10, 2018 to August 9, 2022

MESSAGE FROM THE EXECUTIVE DIRECTOR

STERLING MEMBERS

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D ET U R

P O N S M UN

DO

STERLING MEMBERS

GET IN TOUCH

GET IN TOUCH

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137 Telok Ayer Street, #06-03, Singapore 068602 Tel: +65 6222-3552

INFORMATION HUBS In-depth content hubs on our key themes. Includes news, events, thought leadership, explainers, digital content and more.

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Supporting businesses and the community through the pandemic

Ensuring that rich and diverse workforces are working together to support business innovation and growth

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Supporting talent and the enhancement of people to support business growth

Focusing on quality education and future skills that businesses will require

Hit subscribe or click here to get your regular copy of the Orient Creating jobs and boosting economic growth in Singapore

Encouraging businesses to do their part for a world that we all want to live in in the future

NEWS - AT THE CHAMBER

Happening this week - Our upcoming AGM and member dialogue with the Minister of Manpower Happening this week, members are invited to join us on April 28, 2022 from 4.00 PM - 6.30 PM for our AGM and member dialogue; a special in-person flagship event in our calendar.

In the first half, we welcome our special guest, Minister for Manpower Dr. Tan See Leng, who will engage in a moderated dialogue with members following the Government's Committee of Supply announcements for 2022.

In the second half, during our formal AGM proceedings, members will hear from the President of the Chamber, Richard Warburton, Treasurer Christina Mason and Executive Director David Kelly on the Chamber's achievements and activities during the past 12 months, as well as the plans and initiatives for 2022. This event will also mark the official term end for the Committee members of 2021/22 and the commencement of the new term for 2022/23.

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The Future of AgrifoodTech

In March 30, we held a special in-person event with 7 UK companies who shared with us the latest and new frontier approach for agrifoodtech solutions. Topic covered were broad with novel foods to vertical farming technologies.

Each of these companies has a track record in their home market and is in the process of launching their businesses in Singapore and the wider Southeast Asian region as part of GROW's Land x Launch™ platform.

The in-person event truly holds a unique value with ideas that can contirbute to Singapore's food security and sustainability ambitions.

BritCham hosts Carbon Market Roundtable

During early April, our Energy & Utilities committee convened a roundtable discussion on Carbon Markets, moderated by Committee Chair Tim Rockell. Thank you to our special representatives from the Singapore and UK governments - Joseph Teo, Singapore's Chief Negotiator for Climate Change, and Isabelle de Lovinfosse, Head of COP26 Strategy at the British High Commission), to our expert industry group for joining the discussion, and to members Arup for hosting the session.

Representatives from Climate Impact X, Shell, Penningtons Manches Cooper, the Energy Institute, AON, InfraCo Asia, Societe Generale and Arup joined us to represent industry perspectives in the Chatham House session.

Tanglin ranked top five independent schools in Singapore (Top 20 globally for the second year in a row)

Award-winning Tanglin Trust School is pleased to share that it has been listed amongst the top five independent schools in Singapore and top 20 independent schools worldwide based on International Baccalaureate (IB) results. This is the second time in two years that 97 year old Tanglin has made it into the top 20 in the league tables compiled by independent education consultants Education Advisers.

Beyond the IB programme, Tanglin is also the only International school in Singapore to offer A-level, allowing students the choose the educational pathway best suited for them. Tanglin’s A-level results are equally as impressive with four students recently earning the prestigious Top in the World awards conferred by the Outstanding Cambridge Learner Awards (OCLA).

Allan Forbes, Head of Senior School said: "We are very proud of our students' exceptional performance and world class success despite the disruptions in classes over the last two years due to the pandemic. It shows their resilience, discipline and hard work."

The 2021 student cohort also achieved outstanding A Level results, achieving 100% pass rate. An exceptional 42% of all grades were an A*, more than double the average in England, where 19.1% of all grades were an A*. At Tanglin, 70% of all grades were an A* or A, compared to 44.8% in England.

NEWS - MEMBER UPDATES

NEWS - FROM THE UK

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Doing business with Ukraine and Russia during the current tensions

Understanding the new MOM Complementarity Assessment Framework (COMPASS) for Employment Passes, and changes to minimum qualifying salaries

The following information for UK businesses has been shared by the Department for International Trade:

During the Committee of Supply announcements on 4 March 2022, Singapore's Ministry of Manpower announced a significant update to immigration policy.

Foreign workforce policy changes have been made to strengthen the complementarity and diversity of the foreign workforce; support industry transformation and development of a strong Singaporean core, and to provide greater clarity and certainty to businesses on foreign workforce policies.

due to the source restrictions for Work Permit holders.

With the moves to increase the benchmark for S Pass quality, MOM will introduce an NTS Occupation List from 1 September 2023 to allow firms in the Services and Manufacturing sectors to hire such S Pass holders on Work Permits. This will be restricted to a list of selected occupations.

The aim is to ensure that EP and S Pass holders are comparable in quality to the top one-third of the local PMET (Professionals, Managers, Executives and Technicians) and APT (Associate Professionals and Technicians) workforce and that foreign workers are hired to fill skill gaps, not to save on costs.

1. 40 points are required to pass.

On 24 February the UK announced a new package of sanctions on Russia, full details are available here: https://www.gov.uk/government/news/foreign-secretary-imposes-uks-most-punishing-sanctions-to-inflictmaximum-and-lasting-pain-on-russia It is important that you ensure your business activities are compliant with the current sanctions against Russia and seek legal advice if necessary. The situation will obviously develop over the coming days and weeks, so you should continue to check the guidance pages listed below to understand the potential impact on your business and action you may need to take.

If you are planning to trade with Russia, you should check if your product is on the export ban list which can be found in the Russian Sanctions: Guidance document: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/russia-sanctions-guidance There is a suspension of dual-use goods. You can assess your products to determine whether or not they are controlled and are subject to this suspension via: https://www.gov.uk/guidance/export-controls-dual-use-items-software-and-technology-goods-for-torture-andradioactive-sources Consular support is available to British nationals in Ukraine and Russia: Consular support for Ukraine: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-kyiv Consular support for Russia: https://www.gov.uk/world/organisations/british-embassy-moscow You can stay up to date with the latest government notifications on export controls by signing up to the Export Control Joint Unit (ECJU) e-alert service.

Notice to Exporters e-alerts: https://public.govdelivery.com/accounts/UKECO/subscriber/new You should also consult the links below, which refer to 2019 and the latest 2022 financial sanctions relating to Russia.

UK Sanctions Relating to Russia: https://www.gov.uk/government/collections/uk-sanctions-on-russia Russian Sanctions: Guidance: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/russia-sanctions-guidance Financial Guidance, Russia: https://www.gov.uk/government/publications/financial-sanctions-ukrainesovereignty-and-territorial-integrity Companies doing business with countries subject to sanctions must accept the risks of doing so, just as they accept other political and market risks. We suggest you take legal advice if you suspect your business could be impacted.

What are the key changes to costs?

1 .The EP qualifying salary will be benchmarked to the top one-third of local PMET wages, increasing from $4,500 to $5,000 for new applications from 1 September 2022, and to renewals from 1 September 2023 (existing EP Pass holders whose passes are expiring from 1 September 2023 will be subject to the new qualifying salary). The qualifying salary will continue to increase progressively with age, up to $10,500 for a candidate in their mid-40s.

The EP minimum qualifying salary for the Financial Services sector will be raised from $5,000 to $5,500.

The qualifying salary will increase progressively to $11,500 for a candidate in their mid-40s. The same timeline applies to implementation.

2. The cost of hiring an S Pass holder, which includes both the qualifying salary and levy, will be benchmarked to the top one-third of local APT wages from 1 September 2022, and to renewals from 1 September 2023 (existing S Pass holders whose passes are expiring from 1 September 2023 will be subject to the new qualifying salary).

3. Reflecting the Financial Services sector’s higher wage norms, a higher S Pass qualifying salary for this sector will be introduced.

How will COMPASS work in practice?

2. All applications are scored on four foundational criteria, based on benchmarks expected of a complementary EP holder. It is possible to have sufficient points for an application/renewal based on these foundational criteria, as up to 20 are available in each one and only 40 are required to pass.

3. Additional points can be earned on bonus criteria, which recognise applications that bring in skills in shortage and support strategic economic priorities.

4. Lower points on one criterion can be made up for by higher points on another.

Will there be any exemptions to COMPASS? 1. Candidates are exempted from COMPASS if they fufill any of these conditions: 2. Earning at least $20,000 fixed monthly salary 3. Applying as an overseas intra-corporate transferee under the World Trade Organisation’s General Agreement on Trade in Services or an applicable Free Trade Agreement that Singapore is party to.

4. Filling a role on a short-term basis, i.e. 1 month or less.

For a detailed breakdown on the COMPASS Employment Pass, please visit https://www.britcham. org.sg/news/understanding-COMPASS

4. Some firms hire rank-and-file workers on S Passes

NEWS - IN SINGAPORE

WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS

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STERLING MEMBERS

CORPORATE SME MEMBERS

HAYS SPECIALIST RECRUITMENT PTE LTD

BALDWIN BOYLE GROUP

Hays Specialist Recruitment Pte Ltd, Singapore ("Hays Singapore") is one of Singapore's leading recruitment companies in recruiting qualified, professional and skilled people across a wide range of industries and professions.

We provide a comprehensive range of services from UK taxation, estate management, relocation and immigration, property development, debt advisory through to our lifestyle business. Independent of financial advisers, property companies and insurance providers, our focus is on providing impartial advice to our clients. Our evolving network is a trusted source for much-needed professional services for British Expatriates, both in-house and including external providers we endorse as best-in-class.

We operate across the private and public sector, dealing in permanent, temporary and contracting positions in more than 15 different specialisms, including Accountancy & Finance, Banking & Financial Services, Engineering, Human Resources, Legal, Life Sciences, Marketing & Digital, Office Professionals, Procurement, Supply Chain, Sales and Technology.

Representative Member: Ryan Kealey

Visit https://www.baldwinboyle.com/ for more.

Representative Member: Daniel Giles

CORPORATE MEMBERS FNZ (SINGAPORE) SERVICES PTE LTD

EXECUTIVE COUNSELLING

FNZ partners with the entire wealth industry to make wealth management accessible to more people. We combine technology, infrastructure and investment operations in a single state-of-the-art platform. Today, we partner with over 650 financial institutions and 8,000 wealth management firms, enabling over 20 million people across all wealth segments to invest in the things they care the most about, on their own terms. We work with trusted wealth management brands who share our ambition to create digital, hyper-personalized and innovative products for every investor.

Provision of mental wellness services to corporates and employees in Singapore and beyond. Services include skills training, counselling and coaching for individuals and groups. The founder has over 20 years of experience in finance across Europe and Asia. He has provided investment banking advise at a C-Suite level on complex global transactions. He understands the challenges and opportunities of bringing together diverse stakeholders to solve problems at speed.

Visit https://www.fnz.com/contact for more.

Representative Member: Wanying Lim

UNIVERSITY OF STRATHCLYDE We're a leading international technological University, inspired by our founder’s vision of a ‘place of useful learning’. Together with our partners, we're at the forefront of international research and development in our strategic themes. The seven themes bring together our research, teaching and innovation strengths from the whole University. Modern complex challenges need multi-disciplinary approaches, and our thematic approach enables us to bring the right teams together.

Visit https://www.strath.ac.uk/ for more.

All businesses are people businesses. By understanding ourselves and our colleagues better we can more skillfully navigate challenges and enjoy achieving more.

Representative Member: Dan Crittenden

SPICE ADVISORY LLP We provide a comprehensive range of services from UK taxation, estate management, relocation and immigration, property development, debt advisory through to our lifestyle business. Independent of financial advisers, property companies and insurance providers, our focus is on providing impartial advice to our clients. Our evolving network is a trusted source for much-needed professional services for British Expatriates, both in-house and including external providers we endorse as best-in-class.

Visit https://spiceadvisory.com/ for more.

Representative Member: Martin Rimmer

Representative Member: Julian Taylor

WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS

RECENT IN-PERSON EVENTS

WELCOMING NEW MEMBERS TECH NATION Tech Nation fuels the growth of game-changing founders, leaders and scaling companies so they can positively transform societies and economies. We provide them with the coaching, content and community they need for their journey in designing the future.

Visit https://technation.io/ for more.

Representative Member: Maxime Pourrat

CORPORATE STARTUP ACARA STRATEGY Acara Strategy is a strategic communications consultancy, which combines toplevel journalist insights with expertise in reputation management and media strategy. Founded by former Bloomberg TV Anchor John Dawson, Acara's mission is to strategically ensure that your brand, personal or professional, makes a tangible, credible and lasting impression with the international Tier 1 media. John launched Acara to leverage his front-line experience and ensure clients are in a position of strength to successfully navigate the media landscape while also protecting their reputation against 24/7 media scrutiny.

Visit https://www.acarastrategy.com/ for more.

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Recent In-person events 15 Mar 2022 The Future of AgrifoodTech In March 30, we held a special in-person event with 7 UK companies who shared with us the latest and new frontier approach for agrifoodtech solutions. Topic covered were broad with novel foods to vertical farming technologies.

Each of these companies has a track record in their home market and is in the process of launching their businesses in Singapore and the wider Southeast Asian region as part of GROW's Land x Launch™ platform.

For more information on the 7 UK companies involved, click on their links below: BORN MAVERICK FOOD INNOVATION LTD Eagle Genomics Entocycle Indo Lighting LettUs Grow Ltd Multus Neitiv

Representative Member: John Dawson

OVERSEAS CORPORATE MEMBERS BIBBY MARINE LIMITED We own and operate Walk to Work Service Operation Vessels, and floating hotels for workers, offering flexible near shore and offshore accommodation. We are a subsidiary of Bibby Line Group, a family-owned British company with a maritime heritage dating back more than 210 years. Bibby Line Group operates internationally in 12 countries and manages over £1billion of funds.

Visit https://www.bibbymarine.com/ for more.

Representative Member: Nicholas Giaever-Enger

MEMBERSHIP OF THE BRITISH CHAMBER OF COMMERCE SINGAPORE The Chamber offers membership types to suit companies at all stages of your business growth journey.

For those looking to investigate the market opportunities and retain connections with the British business community in Singapore while based overseas, we offer an Overseas Corporate membership and additional support options from our Trade Services team.

Small businesses benefit from our Corporate SME membership option, as you look to build brand awareness and a network of connections.

Larger companies may opt for a Corporate, Corporate Plus or Sterling membership type depending on the level of engagement and number of employees you intend to embed within the Chamber. Sterling members also receive exclusive benefits and brand awareness not available to other membership types.

We'd love to hear your business story, your goals and your plans for growth, and we're certain we can help to play a part.

Reach out to us via the enquiry form on our website at www.britcham.org.sg/how-can-the-chamber-help-me.

25 Mar 2022 Britcham Presents: Capital Markets & Digital asset Transformation

Event Partner:

In this live in person event, speakers discussed on Digital Asset Transformation and the key commercial benefits; Enhanced Security, Better Traceability, Reduced Costs, Increased Efficiency & Speed and Clear Transparency.

The panel guided our attendees on the rapidly expanding world of Digital Assets and Tokenisation with opening remarks from CEO Winston Quek.

With special thanks to SBI Digital Markets for partnering this event. Click here to access the photo album of the event on Flickr.

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RECENT IN-PERSON EVENTS

Recent In-person events 15 Mar 2022 2022 Asia Market Outlook with Corenet Global Singapore

RECENT WEBINARS

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Recent Webinars

Discover more webinars at britcham.org.sg/webinars

Event Partner: 23 Feb 2022: The Celebrity Service Experience

The Annual Market Outlook returned for 2022 as an in-person event in collaboration with CoreNet.

Discover out-of-this-world ideas but will come up with exciting ideas to light up your business and excite your customers.

Organised by our Built Environment Committee, the in-person event was attended by leading industry experts who provided insights on the opportunities and challenges of the year ahead in the real estate market in Asia. Click here to access the photo album of the event on Flickr.

01 Mar 2022: BritCham Presents: IP Enforcement Manual for Singapore Find out the specifics of Singapore's laws and regulations, as well as the methods for enforcing intellectual property rights.

10 Mar 2022 International Women's Day Lunch

Series Partner: 10 Mar 2022: International Women's Day Webinar As part of our International Women's Day activities for 2022, this panel discussion reviewed the biases creating barriers for professional women in today's society.

We enjoyed an inspirational lunch on 8th March with 50 of our members and guests around #IWD2022, featuring Amanda Murphy, Head of Commercial Banking for the region with HSBC and once again moderated by the fantastic Lewis Garrad of Mercer. Thank you also to British High Commissioner Kara Owen for joining us.

Events like this are possible with the generosity and support of our event partners, and with the help of those who willingly give their time to help organise them. Thank you to our Women in Business Committee for organising this year's activities and to our IWD partners this year: Barclays, St. James's Place – Asia, Mercer, Swire Shipping and NatWest Markets Plc. Click here to access the photo album of the event on Flickr.

Sponsoring Partner:

Title Partner:

Supporting Partners:

29 Mar 2022: Bridging the Gap (B2G): Planning for Sustainable Growth & the Future of Tourism in Singapore As a small city-state with no hinterland, Singapore needs to plan carefully to optimise its limited resources to meet the needs of current and future generations.

Sponsoring Partner:

UPCOMING EVENTS & WEBINARS

RECENT WEBINARS

Recent Webinars

Discover more webinars at britcham.org.sg/webinars

Upcoming Events & Webinars

31 Mar 2022: Insuring the Energy Transition

Bookmark our Upcoming Events page at www.britcham.org.sg/events to register for the latest events.

Learn the risks that Insurance Industry sees on how it may impact Energy Transition

DATE

06 April 2022: Against the Odds: Achieving Success with Singapore’s Paralympic Athletes

Event Partner:

This webinar will feature two of Singapore's most decorated paralympic athletes (Yip Pin Xiu and Theresa Goh) talking about the challenges they faced and how they overcame them.

14 Apr 2022: What You Need to Know to Help Decarbonise Your Organisation

Event Partner:

Learn the best practices and actions to take for protecting your information in the cyber space

NAME

TIME

26 Apr 2022

The Eight Biggest Tax 4:00 PM & Estate Planning Mistakes You Really 5:00 PM Shouldn't Be Making But Probably Are

27 Apr 2022

Myanmar Business Update

8:30 AM 10:00 AM

28 Apr 2022

Member Dialogue with Dr. Tan See Leng, Minister of Manpower followed by AGM 2022

4:00 PM 6:30 PM

06 Jul 2022

Leaders in Business Lunch with Jacqueline Poh, Managing Director, EDB

18 Aug 2022

Back to Work Networking

29 Sep 2022

Celebrating the Singapore F1 Grand Prix

Understand scope 1 and 2 greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions using recognised GHG accounting methodology.

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INCOMING BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2022/23

INCOMING BOARD MEMBERS FOR 2022/23 Damian Adams Watson Farley & Williams LLP

We welcome the following board members who were elected at our Annual General Meeting on 28th April 2022

Haslam Preeston Jardine Matheson VICE PRESIDENT

PRESIDENT

Christina Mason Pricewaterhouse Coopers LLP

Nick Magnus Dulwich College (Singapore) SECRETARY

Simon Bennett Swire Shipping Pte Ltd

Angel CheungHorenfeldt Standard Chartered Bank

Suzy Goulding MullenLowe salt Singapore Pte Ltd

Simon Middlebrough Singapore Aero Engine Services Pte Ltd

Penny Murphy Arcadis

James Nesbitt Standard Chartered Bank

Lorena Paglia Microsoft

Michael Yap Coventry University

TREASURER

Steve Firstbrook British High Commission EX-OFFICIO

Lucy Watkins British Council CO-OPTED

Andy Marr 8Build Pte Ltd

Andrew Clark Asiaworks

CO-OPTED

CO-OPTED

5 KEY INSIGHTS ON THE FUTURE-READINESS OF SMES

culture and clear company purpose and value (20%).

2. These areas can help future-proof SMEs We define future readiness as a set of organizational capabilities and orientations that enable companies to financially grow in the long term, impact society and the environment positively and successfully respond to shocks and seize opportunities that emerge from constant disruption. These are the key drivers of future-readiness.

we asked them about concrete policies, processes, measurement, responsibility and incentives.

However, some of the most future ready SMEs included in this work have shown the opportunities that come with a clear and measurable focus on social and environmental sustainability. This not only offers multiple value-creating routes for addressing SMEs’ highest-ranked challenges – talent acquisition and retention, access to funding etc. – it also offers them an opportunity to gain reputational benefits as champions of sustainability strategies.

The Road to Net Zero: Sustainable and Responsible Investing Anil Scott,

Private Wealth Manager, Select Investors

5. Digital transformation is key to survival

3. Being smaller gives you an edge The changing economic landscape and the increased speed required by businesses to succeed provides fertile ground for future-ready SMEs. Having fewer, and more direct, communication channels between departments and leaders in SMEs allows them to react more effectively and quickly to emergencies. When leaders are closer to the ground where problems arise, there is greater collaborative effort and alignment when team members “go back to the drawing board” and proactively solve them.

Staying strategically small, investing in and trusting a core group of people, and keeping the organization agile can enable SMEs to identify and quickly act on opportunities.

4. Societal impact is an untapped opportunity The recent pandemic and subsequent fight for survival made it difficult for SMEs to focus on their triple bottom line of people, profit and planet. While a significant number of SMEs do include societal impact in their mission statement, this gets significantly thinner when

While small entrepreneurs might struggle to fund their innovative business models and find talent to execute their vision, recognizing the importance of innovation itself is not a problem.

Innovation seemed integral to SMEs’ perception of survival. This research also shows that digital infrastructure has a significant impact on sustainable growth, societal impact and adaptive capacity. Digital innovations have now become relatively inexpensive and widely available. When SMEs equip themselves with the necessary tools and network resources to execute their innovative vision, they stand to compete with larger organizations.

We hope that this report will inspire and encourage SMEs to become the next generation of champions, and that seeing the successful examples of their peers will help them harness their potential. We also hope that it will support our collective understanding about the role and impact that SMEs can have on global challenges and encourage the development of a supportive environment for the most future-ready businesses to thrive.

We have long known that sensible, quality-focused stock selection that is sometimes a little prosaic as it delivers strong upside return, if only to better manage the vicissitudes of downside risk; while surely necessary for most people, essential in fact, can sometimes be unexciting. Very rarely is it the topic du jour. That was until we recently started to pay more attention to the very limited options that the planet we inhabit now has, thanks largely to our two-hundred year addiction to carbon.

The investment community can be a powerful agent for change, as it essentially reflects the collective and laudable priorities and imperatives of many of us. Through our investment into our own portfolios of choice, for goals and ambitions that feature large in our personal lives, into companies and businesses that form the DNA of the global economy we signal that economic growth and profit is both beneficial and attractive.

The herd which is the ’market’ is in fact a movement of immense power, as any competent securities trader will tell you. Businesses develop and grow the more efficient they are at managing resources and capital, and the profits thus made are reinvested into the cycle of growth and development. Shrewd investors that have the ability to pick winners, or if not, the agency to do so through their investment counsel stand to gain immensely, particularly over the fullness of time. The rich bounty that awaits the patient long-term investor with an eye on excellent assets trading at value is evidenced in empirical reality.

For some things there is a cost however.

Becoming financially secure is a dream for many of us, yet surely it is only worthwhile if we have a healthy and sustainable world in which to enjoy this. We believe therefore that to achieve social wellbeing and economic prosperity we need to both protect the planet, and shape a world that is fit for future generations. Money can and must be

THE ROAD TO NET ZERO: SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE INVESTING

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THE ROAD TO NET ZERO: SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE INVESTING

used as a force for good.

As well as offering dedicated portfolios with quantifiable and strict ESG (Environmental and Social Governance) criteria, enabling investors to direct their money specifically towards assets which are at the forefront of the sustainability revolution, St James’s Place benchmarks each of the fund managers of our core portfolios against globally recognised responsible investment standards. This is just one of the many ways in which their investment behavior falls under our constant scrutiny.

When we look at suitable companies in which to invest our client’s funds, we are looking at the confluence of three factors that will indicate to us if a business has a sustainable future while still being able to

generate growth. Social criteria will look at a company’s relationship with people, how they treat customers and employees, manage supply chains and impact local communities. Governance criteria look in detail at how businesses are managed and run, with a focus on ethics and how stakeholders’ needs are balanced with a culture of promoting commercial strength and long-term prosperity.

Environmental factors are used to assess a company’s relationship with the natural world and of course, its carbon footprint.

Within this framework, as we view viable businesses to invest in, we will dive deeper into the symbiotic relationship between quantifiable responsible investing procedures in the life blood of the business, and sustainable profits. Lastly as responsible investor we believe we can influence company behavior, and we engage with companies on environmental and social issues over the long term.

" We believe therefore that to achieve social wellbeing and economic prosperity we need to both protect the planet, and shape a world that is fit for future generations."

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Do you need to sacrifice investment returns to invest responsibly? According to a Reddington Survey*, 73% of fund managers sampled globally believe that Environmental, Social and Governance factors, the main drivers of responsible investing, are additive to performance.

Indeed, combined with the investment imperatives of searching for robust and viable businesses, trading at value and built to perform across market conditions, an (RI) slant to a portfolio, if it is based on responsible investing conviction and integrity and does not pander to a perceived fad, can be a powerful way of capturing alpha. To do this while making sure that you remain a good ancestor to the generations that come after you, is the essence of an approach which combines our need to deploy capital to capture growth opportunities, while also being a force for positive change.

Contact Anil on Anil.Scott@sjpp. asia or +65 96268576 to arrange a consultation and discuss further how to be a force for positive change through sustainable and responsible investing.

The value of an investment with St. James’s Place will be directly linked to the performance of the funds selected and may fall as well as rise. You may get back less than the amount invested.

The ‘St. James’s Place Partnership’ and the titles ‘Partner’ and ‘Partner Practice’ are marketing terms used to describe St. James’s Place representatives.

Members of the St. James’s Place Partnership in Singapore represent St. James’s Place (Singapore) Private Limited, which is part of the St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group, and it is regulated by the Monetary Authority of Singapore and is a member of the Investment Management Association of Singapore and Association of Financial Advisers (Singapore). Company Registration No. 200406398R. Capital Markets Services Licence No. CMS100851.St. James’s Place Wealth Management Group Ltd Registered Office: St. James’s Place House, 1 Tetbury Road, Cirencester, Gloucestershire, GL7 1FP, United Kingdom. Registered in England Number 02627518.

THE ROAD TO NET ZERO: SUSTAINABLE AND RESPONSIBLE INVESTING

COMMITTEE CONTENT: WHAT ARE THE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN ICT ENABLED WATER RESILIENCY FOR SMES IN SINGAPORE?

What are the business opportunities in ICT enabled water resiliency for SMEs in Singapore?

Tim Rockell

Managing Director & Founder, EnergyStrat Asia, Consultant for KPMG, and Chair, BritCham Energy & Utilities Committee

Derek Murray

Digital Advisory Lead - Asia, Mott MacDonald and Chair, BritCham ICT Commitee

Ismail Weiliang Civil Engineer (Water) Mott MacDonald

Two existential water challenges of water scarcity and flooding amplified by climate change, are faced by Singapore’s National Water Agency, PUB. It is taking significant efforts to build capabilities and deploy technology to be a smart, net-zero and cyber-secure water utility provider in Singapore and to be a beacon for the region. With one of the strongest IP enforcement regimes and a healthy start-up ecosystem, what are the related ICT enabled opportunities for small medium enterprises (SMEs) in Singapore? Furthermore, with the signing of the UK-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement, what are the opportunities for SMEs and corporates in both countries to learn, scale and apply such ICT innovations together? The ICT Committee and Energy and Utilities Committee share their insights here.

target to reduce per capita consumption to 130 litres per day by 2030 (at 2018 consumption was 141 litres per person per day).

Water Resilience Challenges

Technology enablers are being deployed across Singapore’s entire water sector’s value chain as part of the current SMART PUB Roadmap, a 5-year plan unveiled in 2018. Five technology enablers identified to be deployed are Artificial Intelligence, Internet of Things, Data Analytics, Autonomous Vehicles, and Digital Twins (IWA, 2020).

The 2015 World Resource Institute report states that Singapore is at the highest risk of becoming severely water stressed by 2040. To address these challenges, Singapore closed the water loop, long before it became fashionable to talk about circularity. Singapore’s water, drainage and sewage system are integrated with its desalination plants plugged into the cycle. From a consumption perspective, Singapore has set a

In addition, 30% of Singapore's land is less than five metres above mean sea level and sea level is expected rise close to one metre by the end of the century. In 2019, the Prime Minister of Singapore, Lee Hsien Loong, announced that Singapore would need to spend $100 billion or more over the next century to protect itself from rising sea levels. ICT innovations are needed to support the changes needed across supply, demand and future adaptation.

A Beacon for the Region – A Smart, Net-Zero and Cyber-resilient Water Utility

Achieving Net-Zero is also significant for Singapore’s national agenda on sustainable de-

35 velopment. The Singapore Green Plan 2030, launched in 2021, looks to achieve long-term net zero emissions as soon as viable. This strengthens Singapore’s commitments under the United Nations’ 2030 Sustainable Development Agenda and Paris Agreement. PUB has launched its Carbon Zero Grand Challenge which seeks to help Singapore achieve net-zero emissions by mid-century. It is seeking carbon capture, utilisation, removal, and other solutions at all technology readiness levels that can be integrated with its operations and reach commercial scale within a decade or sooner.

Such technologies are needed on existing infrastructure and new, such as Tuas Nexus, Singapore’s first integrated water and solid waste treatment facility. Tuas Nexus will connect energy and water needs, it began construction in 2020 and is set to be completed in phases from 2025 onwards. The nexus will optimise land use, maximise energy and resource recovery and will be energy self-sufficient by harnessing synergies from two mega treatment plants. Integrating both facilities will result in land savings of up to 2.6 hectares. Additionally, the by-product of one facility such as food waste slurry can be combined with sludge from the other to produce biogas which becomes an energy resource within the nexus. The resulting carbon savings will over 200,000 tonnes of CO2 annually, equivalent to taking 42,500 cars off Singapore’s roads.

Singapore is open to understanding more on ‘nexus’ technologies and how ICT can be used to enable them.

Cybersecurity is a corner stone for Singapore’s authorities (IWA, 2020) and the nation is ranked 4th globally in the UN Global Cyber Security Index (GCI) 2020, an index which measures the commitment to cybersecurity of each country. Singapore’s Water Industrial Control Systems (ICS) are considered safe from cyber-attacks as they are segregated from the internet and are not accessible remotely over public networks. In addition, the digital twins that PUB uses for remote monitoring and asset management functions are on a separate network from the critical operational systems that provide the delivery of essential services. Nevertheless, there may be other attack vectors which could inad

vertently impact the systems, such as while doing system maintenance. Readiness and resilience – in all aspects – must remain the keystone of risk management, incident response, and recovery, especially for the critical water sector (CSA, 2019).

These are areas with great potential business opportunities for ICT enabled water resiliency.

UK-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement The UK-Singapore Digital Economy Agreement (UKSDEA) signed in 2022 is Singapore’s third DEA, and the United Kingdom’s first, and as noted by H.E. Kara Owen, British High Commissioner to Singapore, "Singapore is a prime mover in the digital economy, and it is a natural partner for the UK to have its first DEA". The DEA includes binding disciplines on cornerstones of the digital economy. Three Memoranda of Understanding (MOUs) were signed in the agreement for Cyber Security Cooperation, Digital Trade Facilitation and Digital Identities. Additionally, SME cooperation is supported in order to promote jobs for SMEs and facilitate their connection with suppliers, buyers and business partners (MTI, 2022). Such support will enable SMEs in UK and Singapore’s ICT and water sectors to realise wider business opportunities than previously possible.

Healthy Start-up Ecosystem Relating to support for SMEs, Singapore established a dedicated facility “Singapore Water Exchange (SgWX)” in 2018 to specifically house a vibrant ecosystem of water

COMMITTEE CONTENT: WHAT ARE THE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN ICT ENABLED WATER RESILIENCY FOR SMES IN SINGAPORE?

COMMITTEE CONTENT: WHAT ARE THE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN ICT ENABLED WATER RESILIENCY FOR SMES IN SINGAPORE? companies to leverage on mutual strengths to push the frontiers of water innovation and business growth. It also has accelerator programs such as Imagine H2O Asia, founded in 2018, to provide resources, insight and visibility to help entrepreneurs launch and scale water technology start-ups in Singapore and the wider region.

The SgWX brochure can be accessed here The Accelerator Program can be accessed here Strong IP Enforcement Singapore has one of the best Intellectual Property regimes in the region. Intellectual Property Office Singapore and its partners (including our Chamber of Commerce) have launched a new manual for IP Enforcement. This manual can assist businesses that are already operating in Singapore or are planning to grow here. It delves into the specifics of Singapore's laws and regulations, as well as the methods for enforcing intellectual property rights.

It also includes commentary on context and practice that explains what works and what does not in Singapore and gives a better understanding of the country’s enforcement landscape.

The manual can be accessed at: User Manuals Assistance for IP matters can be accessed at: IPOS | Infringement & Enforcement).

Our March webinar introducing the IP Manual is available on demand through the Chamber’s website: Introducing the IP Enforcement Manual Singapore-based Start-ups Singapore has a vibrant research, development and innovation ecosystem. The national Research, Innovation and Enterprise plan, revised every five years, has allocated in the RIE2025 plan around $25 billion, reflecting the government’s aim to sustain investments in research, innovation, and enterprise at about 1% of Singapore's GDP. The RIE is under four pillars, including Urban Solutions and Sustainability, which looks to build a liveable, resilient, sustainable, and economically vibrant city for tomorrow. Funding is available across academic research, manpower development and innovation and enterprise.

Tech developed in Singapore has long been utilised

within the country’s infrastructure. For example, in IoT, SpaceAge Labs is a Singapore-based start-up who collaborated with PUB to monitor and prevent sewer overflows in Singapore's wastewater network. The company installed 40 IoT devices in sewer manholes in three different areas to provide PUB with real-time alerts when wastewater levels rise too high. When alerted, PUB can check for blockages downstream, before overflow occurs, thereby avoiding infrastructure damage, as well as public safety and environmental health issues. The real-time monitoring solution also informs PUB of areas that are likely to get blocked in the future, so proactive, preventative action can be taken.

BeeX is a Singapore-based start-up providing its Hovering Autonomous Underwater Vehicle (HAUV) solution. This is an autonomous vehicle to conduct large-scale underwater inspections.

BeeX’s “self-thinking” robots reduce operations and maintenance costs for difficult to access assets. The system also removes the element of safety risk in inspections at sea as there are no physical inspections to be conducted by divers.

(Smart Maritime Network, 2021) UK-based Start-ups The ecosystem of UK ICT and wider technology solutions is extensive, with a larger market this is perhaps to be expected. Examples of UK businesses, shared by UK’s Department for International Trade, can be found below: 1. Smart water pipe leakage identification and monitoring FIDO 2. Smart networks repair and renewal Syrinix Datatecnics nuron Aqualiner Subterra

37 4. Smart control systems, pumping equipment,metering and flow management i2O Aquacheck Engineering Blackhall Engineering 5. Smart water contaminants treatment and management Arvia Typhon Siltbuster Perlemax Clean Water Wave Going with the Flow Singapore provides the water sector with fantastic opportunities to incubate and develop novel solutions enabled by ICT and other technologies. With a bigger footprint, the UK is a great place to upscale SME solutions, including those that can translate back to meet Singapore’s needs in the use and reuse of water as a valuable asset. Additionally, “nexus” type approaches demand fresh thinking from different sectors to combine and innovate.

There are excellent opportunities for organisations in both countries to collaborate, and this is boosted in the advent of the UK-Singapore Digital Economy agreement. Support is available through UK and Singapore Governments, and our Chamber, to facilitate and grow sustainable business relationships between SMEs and corporates. Commercialising technologies, on what could be conceived as an infrastructure highway between Singapore and the United Kingdom, is now more possible than ever before.

To explore further or to get support for your own business, please get in touch with the committees via BritCham. And don’t forget to catch the Chamber's upcoming Water event and the Singapore International Water Week, a gathering of international water leaders and innovators.

3. Smart network laying Trenchless Solutions With thanks to Allard Nooy and Sharyn Bow from InfraCo Asia for their review and input to this article.

COMMITTEE CONTENT: WHAT ARE THE BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES IN ICT ENABLED WATER RESILIENCY FOR SMES IN SINGAPORE?

COMMITTEE CONTENT: ASIA MARKET OUTLOOK 2022: ARE WE READY?

Asia Market Outlook 2022: Are We Ready?

Is the real estate industry ready for 2022 and beyond?

Alisdair Gillies

Managing Director, Greengate Advisors, and Chair, BritCham Built Environment Committee

This was the question posed to a diverse panel of corporate real estate executives at the first live event organized by the British Chamber of Commerce and CoreNet Global Singapore Chapter of the year. The thought-provoking panel included Dan Whitmore, Head of Global Portfolio Solutions APAC from Knight Frank, Elizabeth Laws Fuller, Head of Growth, Southeast Asia at WeWork, Nick Hughes, Regional Head of Workplace (Property) at Standard Chartered Bank, and Vivekk Sehgal, Workplace Lead at Singtel and was expertly moderated

by Neil Salton, Managing Director at ChangeWorq.

Focusing on offices and corporate real estate in general, the event quickly uncovered significant variance in cultural demands, business drivers, and industry specific nuances, all of which had a huge impact on an organisations readiness to adopt flexible working practices, integrate technology into their real estate offer and fully embrace the philosophy of the workplace being an extension of the brand.

Key takeaways from the discussion include the following:

1. Flexibility – A matter of change management Whilst many organisations were embracing alternate real estate models and ways of working prior to

Samarth Kasturia

Director, Data Analytics and Workplace Strategy Lead, Knight Frank and Member, BritCham Built Environment Committee

the pandemic, COVID-19 accelerated the necessity for change as businesses recognized the need for flexibility in how their staff worked both in and out of the office. However, many businesses remain constrained by pre-existing lease commitments, owned real estate, management inertia, or simply industry specific norms in terms of ways of working.

Whilst these barriers are real, they are not preventing the flexibility tide therefore delicately addressing the barriers in a well-considered, situation specific manner, whilst maintaining business performance and staff wellbeing will be critical to long term success.

2. The future of workplace - A renewed purpose There has been a significant reevaluation in the role and use of office space. Gone are the days of churning out a 9-6 workday at a fixed desk for most people. The office is now being used a space for high-value activities such as innovation, collaboration and co-creation supplemented by quiet and task-based zones for more focused activities. In addition, organizations are actively exploring how to provide workers with office access closer to their homes through memberships at co-working venues to repurposing ancillary real estate, such as banking branches, to accommodate satellite workers.

Andy Marr

Managing Director at 8build Asia and Co-Chair, BritCham Built Environment Committee

This not only benefits employee convenience but releases the pressure on the central office whilst providing variability and choice for workers who seek to explore new work venues.

Central offices with smaller footprints are now frequently used for brand building and culture hubs rather than focused work locations.

3. Enhance technology beyond the office Whereas many businesses were quick to respond to events over the last 24 months, technology as an enabler to flexible working still lags where it needs to be. From basic provision such as access to a fast, reliable internet connection to high tech solutions such as considering the sociological factors for virtual meetings, technology and the implementation of it at a corporate and real estate level is not moving fast enough. Much of the necessary flexibility associated with new ways of working needs to strong, wellstructured backbone for the company to thrive.

Connecting our organisations to the city, using technology to drive not only productivity but the experience of work will be critical in differentiating well adopted hybrid strategies from the ones that are not structured properly.

COMMITTEE CONTENT: HOW CAN ORGANISATIONS BE READY FOR CHANGE? LEARN AND ADAPT

How can organisations be ready for change? Learn and adapt Learning and Development Adviser, The Foreign Commonwealth and Development Office

In the world of learning, we’re always searching for the magic formula of what will “make it stick”. Often we go to a training course, read a book, have a conversation – and we’re inspired, interested, know how to do something differently – but then we forget it. The best way I’ve discovered isn’t really a magic formula - it’s common sense – make it fun, make it social, make it relevant, and most importantly – make it instantly applicable.

Getting that combination right for every single person working in their specific areas, needs to involve everyone – individuals, managers, peers, leaders. When we see all of these people involved, that’s when we see a thriving learning culture.

But what exactly is a learning culture? Nigel Paine defines it as “when an organisation can take insight from outside, share it rapidly inside, and turn it into action”. CIPD say it is simply an environment where learning is just “how things get done” – learning is well resourced, people don’t fear failure, and see mistakes as an opportunity to develop. For me – it’s when you

by giving them lots of options • Build confidence – encourage people to share experiences and advice either informally or more structured through things like action learning sets • Listen more – at every opportunity, ask others how to approach things. Ask curious questions, and keep an open mind • Coach rather than instruct - if people work out how to do it themselves, they’ll be much better able to do it again

Daisy Charlton

We’ve all been through a huge amount of upheaval in the last 2 years, and for many of us returning “back to normal” feels equally hard to do. This is as true for organisations as it is individuals. In the Leadership, Talent and Personal Development Committee (LTPD), we believe learning is a vital ingredient for building the resilience that helps us thrive in an ever changing world.

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see people embracing change and ambiguity, when you see teams sharing ideas and reviewing milestones, and you see individuals giving and receiving feedback. It’s about not accepting the way we do things, it’s about striving for better and knowing you will have to learn new things to make it happen.

But how exactly can you do that? Is there a checklist, a formula that can be followed? LTPD organised an event to find that out.

We heard from 3 speakers highlighting different projects and tools, and here are some of their tips: • Solve problems – drive motivation and engagement by finding something people can collaborate on that will make a difference to them

• Be vulnerable – be comfortable not knowing stuff, embrace the inner fear about not being the expert in everything all the time • Provide structure – create an environment where people feel safe to be vulnerable, let people know what to expect, and give different options for participation These principles can be applied in any context – as individuals we can ensure our behaviours build the trust and openness that underpins a learning culture, in teams we can create structures that help us to connect, and as leaders and managers, we can remind ourselves to talk less and listen more.

If you would like to hear more detail from our fantastic speakers – Victoria Mintey of Impact Training By Victoria Mintey, Lisa Partridge of SIXCOMMS and Vicki Vinning of My Writing Coach – you can view the recording on our website.

• Be creative – be brave, do something that creates buzz and energy, and think about what you can do make things visible and tactile. One of our speakers has an official learning set dog!

• Create connections – team bonding is the cement of these initiatives, build the networks that participants will turn to for advice and support as changes occur • Build trust – be curious about each other and disclose things about yourself, in equal balance • Enable choices – help people feel empowered about the direction of their own learning journey

COMMITTEE CONTENT: HOW CAN ORGANISATIONS BE READY FOR CHANGE? LEARN AND ADAPT

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