FFB August 2017

AUGUST 2017 www.ffb-online.co.uk @ffbmagRMC

Striving for equality Female entrepreneurs in Sheffield

DEVOLUTION: Dream or debacle?

Workers’ playtime Offices with the fun factor

EXPANDING HORIZONS

THE MONTHLY INDEPENDENT VOICE OF BUSINESS IN THE SHEFFIELD CITY REGION

'

' EVERY MONTH

CONTENTS

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

CONTENTS AUGUST 2017

AGENDA 6 Amid new calls for closer co-operation between Yorkshire councils, Sheffield City Region’s devolution dream is in turmoil

WOMEN IN BUSINESS 14 The region’s successful businesswomen hit back at a survey that claims Sheffield is worse place to be female entrepreneur

EXPANDING HORIZONS 17 Apprenticeships can offer a fast-track to a better career for young people and can also help businesses tailor-make a more skilled workforce

6

CASE STUDY 27 When it comes to training at work and apprenticeship courses there is a vast array of opportunity out there

14

FUN FACTOR 30 from playzones to climbing walls and slides to sleep ambassadors, modern offices are far removed from the stuffy, faceless interiors of the past

WORK & PLAY 32 A monthly round-up of news, achievements, celebrations and new faces

17

32 Editor Chris Wilson chris.wilson@rmcmedia.co.uk Consultant Editor Andy Waple Chief Feature Writer Clare Parkin Chief Sub Editor Richard Abbey Sub Editor Richard Smith Operations Director Jillion Wood Publishing Manager Mandy Ogle mandy.ogle@rmcmedia.co.uk

30

Studio Manager Chris Brierley Design Dan Wray, Steve Levers RMC Media 6 Broadfield Court Broadfield Business Park Sheffield, S8 OXF Tel: 0114 250 6300 Twitter: @ffbmagRMC www.firstforbusinessmagazine.co.uk

The only way to travel‌ With global expertise and over 30 years’ experience, we have an unrivalled reputation for providing bespoke holidays of the highest quality

PREVIEW

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

PREVIEW elcome to our August issue, which arrives at a time of year when business traditionally takes a holiday and the next generation of apprentices anxiously awaits the exam results that can have a large bearing on their future prospects.

W

Whether you are looking for some stimulating in-flight reading as you take that well-earned break, or are still hard at work, First For Business is on hand to tackle the big issues affecting Sheffield City Region.

Our Expanding Horizons supplement is firmly focussed on the future, and particularly the many ways in which apprenticeships, training, recruitment and education will shape our working environment in the months and years ahead.

We look at some of the region’s best businesses for offering youngsters a chance to learn at work, including some inspiring case studies.

Elsewhere, as the business community still holds its breath and waits to see what our exit from the European Union will actually mean, consultant editor Andy Waple looks at something much closer to home... the difficult subject of devolution.

In theory there is something for everyone in the form of a £900million

deal to help the various members of Sheffield City Region to loosen the ties with central government and carve out a brave new future for themselves.

But given the long history of bickering between the region’s local authorities, it is perhaps not a total surprise that turmoil has arisen from the devolution debate.

As we go to press, the Sheffield City Region’s devolution deal is on hold until September while the leaders of Doncaster and Barnsley look around to see if they can find another answer.

Is there still time to find common ground, grab the money and assert our independence? Time will tell... and time is running out.

Meanwhile, on a more light-hearted note, chief feature writer Clare Parkin looks at the changing face of the modern office. Gone (for some) are the days of sterile environments with row upon row of identical desks, chairs and computers.

Now it could be said it’s all about the fun factor, and you don’t need to work in Google’s Washington HQ complete with climbing wall, or LinkedIn’s California offices with music room full of high tech instruments for creative staff to play, to surf the zeitgeist and work in a creative environment.

CHRIS WILSON, EDITOR

Here in Sheffield we have the Electric Works with its helter skelter and B. Braun Medical with ultra-modern bamboo, glass and voile stylings.

Meanwhile Westfield Health staff can take a break on the roof terrace with 360-degree views of the city at their new eight-storey HQ on Charter Row. However, a modern workplace only counts for so much. If old-fashioned values prevail, how much progress is actually being made? In the light of a survey that claims Sheffield is one of the worst places in Britain to be a female entrepreneur, we ask some of the region’s female success stories about the hurdles they had to overcome to succeed in Steel City.

Along with our usual round-up of business news, that’s a taste of what’s in this edition of First For Business. Let us know what you think by tweeting us @ffbmagRMC.

@ Facebook:ThisisRMC Media Twitter: @FFBmagRMC LinkedIn: RMC Media Email: ffb@rmcmedia.co.uk First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 5

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

BARNSLEY

DONCASTER

Seeking an alternative

On the way out?

SHEFFIELD on hold

ROTHERHAM on hold

BASSETLAW Out

C’FIELD Out

DERBYS

NE DERBYS

BOLSOVER Out

Out

DALES in limbo

TORN APART

AMID NEW CALLS FOR CLOSER CO-OPERATION BETWEEN YORKSHIRE COUNCILS, SHEFFIELD CITY REGION’S DEVOLUTION DREAM IS IN TURMOIL. ANDY WAPLE REPORTS.

G

iven the long history of bickering between our local authorities, many commentators will not be surprised at the turmoil that has arisen from the current Sheffield City Region devolution debate.

Indeed, when the initial agreement was reached in 2015, bringing Sheffield, Barnsley, Doncaster and Rotherham together, along with Bassetlaw, Bolsover, Derbyshire Dales, NE Derbyshire and Chesterfield, there were many who

6 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

shook their heads in disbelief.

Of course the honeymoon period didn’t last long –the wheels soon came off and the project is now in a ditch.

As we go to press, the Sheffield City Region’s £900m devolution deal is on hold until September while the leaders of Doncaster and Barnsley look around to see if they can find another answer.

Chesterfield and Bolsover have already flown the nest after deciding to pull out of their applications to become full

members of the authority, leaving devolution and the election of a regional mayor in limbo.

Following the latest meeting of the Combined Authority – which represents the nine councils - both Sir Steve Houghton of Barnsley and elected Doncaster mayor Ros Jones, said they wanted to explore other options in the quest for a better deal.

Sir Steve Houghton also stepped down as chair to avoid any conflict of interest.

AGENDA

“This should not stop South Yorkshire doing the devolution deal that is on the table now though. Every year we delay we effectively lose £30million and the opportunity to borrow more. Going ahead with a South Yorkshire deal does not preclude a wider Yorkshire deal later.

On the table for exploration will be the all-Yorkshire model and its variants.

This is at odds with the views of Northern Powerhouse minister Jake Berry who said only a week before the meeting that the full Yorkshire devolution model was out of the question.

"One word of caution, however. How many layers of Government do we want?

We are moving already to a position where we have National Government, Northern Powerhouse, Combined Authorities/LEPS, and Local Authorities.

He added the existing Sheffield City Region deal – covering Barnsley, Rotherham, Doncaster and Sheffield – should go ahead complete with an election for a new metro mayor next year and other parts of Yorkshire should come forward with their own proposals.

Mr Houghton countered: “I have made it clear to Jake Berry we need more time to look at the potential of other deals with other leaders and see if any of those tempt him into reconsidering his position.”

He also re-stated his opposition to having a mayor, a position he’d held “from day one.”

Yet as First For Business was going to press, 17 councils in Yorkshire said for the first time that they wanted to unite behind a countywide devolution deal.

A “coalition of the willing” was called for by several leaders as part of an August 1

“I personally think this is enough and properly mixes national, regional and local control. Remember that it is the tax payer who funds all this bureaucracy!"

Sir Steve Houghton: ‘We need more time’

Yorkshire Day declaration.

Sheffield council and local business leaders said they were unwilling to be part of the White Rose coalition, but said others were welcome to their opinion.

Richard Wright, Sheffield Chamber’s Executive Director said: “There is nothing wrong with local authorities in Yorkshire getting together. It’s what I would expect.

We need to work closely together.

Despite this latest attempt for a Yorkshire-wide model, the Government has offered Sheffield City Region £900m over 30 years and devolved powers in return for an elected ‘metro mayor’.

It all sounded promising but trouble soon erupted when a judicial review was granted and the High Court ruled that the process for deciding how some of the new mayoral powers would apply to Chesterfield were unlawful.

Last month things got worse when

¯

Sheffield – plans for a regional mayor for the Sheffield City Region are on hold

First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 7

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

Chesterfield and Bassetlaw pulled out of devolution plans.

Simon Greaves, leader of Bassetlaw District Council, said he had changed his mind about the value of the deal and had concluded it was no longer in the best interests of Bassetlaw.

He said: “In terms of the deal, the government has made it clear that there is a need for Bassetlaw to accept London-style planning powers for an elected mayor. This was never in the deal that I signed up to, though I note that every deal that has now been made across the country has seen a mayor emerge with these powers.”

By contrast the leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, Coun Tricia Gilby, was appointed vice-chair of the Combined Authority at its meeting on 12 June, but it’s unclear what will happen next following Sir Steve’s decision to step down temporarily.

At the time of her appointment he said: “This is a clear indication of the combined authority’s willingness to work collectively across boundaries in the pursuit of making the right decisions to promote economic growth. Irrespective of these decisions that commitment remains.

“The decision by Chesterfield Borough Council and Bassetlaw District Council to withdraw their applications to be a full member of the Combined Authority is hugely disappointing but entirely understandable.”

Coun Gilby said Chesterfield pulled out of the devolution process to avoid an unnecessary waste of public money on a second vote in a short period. A referendum would be required for Chesterfield residents to see if they were in favour of the town becoming part of

Tricia Gilbey: application withdrawn

the Sheffield City Region, and the mayoral position would require a regional election.

She said: “There is little appetite from our residents to take part in yet another vote so soon after the local elections and the general election.”

“What is more, the general election has left the government in complete disarray.

“The government will be so busy trying to manage parliamentary business and the Brexit negotiations that its other policies, such as devolution, will just be kicked into the long grass. This is a further

reason to halt the unnecessary expense of the referendum now.”

The political squabbling has irritated business leaders who are virtually united in a call for the devolution deal to go through as quickly as possible.

Sir Nigel Knowles, chair of the Local Enterprise Partnership, which represents businesses, said they continued to be “100 per cent behind devolution”.

Pressing politicians to grasp this “once-ina-generation opportunity”, he said: “Chesterfield and Bassetlaw’s decisions are clearly regrettable. But the prize

‘There is little appetite from our residents to take part in yet another vote so soon after the local elections and the general election. What is more, the general election has left the government in complete disarray. The government will be so busy trying to manage parliamentary business and the Brexit negotiations that its other policies, such as devolution, will just be kicked into the long grass.

This is a further reason to halt the unnecessary expense of the referendum now.’

Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council 8 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

AGENDA

makes it the right thing to do. We urge the leaders to continue along the journey.

for anybody, not least business confidence.

“My view, and that of the private sector board members on the LEP is unequivocal, we remain fully committed to devolution and will do everything we can to help the local politicians achieve a deal for our region and their respective areas.”

"Is the lack of any message down to some good reason that affects us all or is it just the fact that a regional mayor, with much more control of the money, will mean they might lose some control themselves?

Sir Nigel argued that devolution will mark the first time in a generation that the city region can return to economic growth led by the private sector in areas such as advanced manufacturing, value-added logistics, rail engineering and digital technology.

"Is this the age-old question between what is right for the greater good and what is in certain areas' vested interests?

We will probably never know.

Richard Wright: we need to work closely together

"Generally, businesses in Sheffield would support the Devolution Deal for South Yorkshire but would also want some reassurance that the region will work together better in the future.”

“Confidence within and confidence about our city region has never been higher,” the LEP chair wrote in an open letter. “It is a confidence reflected in our changing urban landscape and in those businesses growing their workforce and investing in new equipment or ways of doing things.

already agreed deal covering our area, after Chesterfield and Bassetlaw effectively pulled out.

“If we are to keep this forward momentum then as a region we need to re-create that ‘first mover’ advantage which was so effectively deployed to deliver the first fruits of devolution. This first mover advantage is a necessity if the region is to really benefit from the opportunities that will come from an industrial strategy that at least in part requires local delivery and local devolution to work.

‘Central government and local government have a dual responsibility to find a way forward which sustains and where possible accelerates the devolution of power, responsibility and resources to support growth and productivity in our economy.’

"It just leaves a big void that is no good

The next Combined Authority meeting is on September 11. If the deal does go ahead, a public consultation will be staged ahead of elections in May 2018.

Sir Nigel Knowles

“A confident, focused and well-led partnership between the private and public sectors speaks volumes to government about our ability to deliver.

“Central government and local government have a dual responsibility to find a way forward which sustains and where possible accelerates the devolution of power, responsibility and resources to support growth and productivity in our economy.”

Sheffield Chamber of Commerce has also spoken out, urging politicians to fill 'big void' surrounding devolution deal.

Richard Wright, the Chamber's executive director, said: "The Northern Powerhouse Minister has confirmed what has already been said before - there is no Yorkshirewide devolution deal on the table.

"It makes it even more frustrating that our region-wide deal cannot be driven through and that the four local authorities in South Yorkshire did not immediately reiterate that they will continue with the

First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 9

Two For Joy INTRODUCTIONS

still feeling unclear and uncertain about who these people are, what their intentions are and whether you should meet with them?

TIM MYCROFT GROUP SERVICES

Superior Cleaning and Restoration of Carpets and Upholstery Carpet Fitting Service ‘Treating your home with the ultimate respect’ Formerly with Franklins of Sheffield who have now closed after 130 years of trading, Tim Mycroft, himself with over 30 years experience, is pleased to announce his taking over the South Yorkshire and Derbyshire areas of the business.

Whether you are searching for that special someone to start a close romantic relationship with, or someone to spend time with just as a platonic whatever you are looking for.

Two For Joy Introductions is more than just a dating service...

• All members fully vetted face-to-face We don’t hold any • Help and advice available at all times client information • Chaperone service available at no extra cost • in online databases • Safer alternative to internet dating or online profiles.

• Lower than average price We work face to face only.

• We welcome enquiries from the LGBT community

Call us on 01709

301 101 or 07872 320 429

Visit our website www.twoforjoyintroductions.co.uk

Like us on facebook

“The bespoke dating and companionship service where your safety and satisfaction are paramount to us.”

Based in Sheffield, Tim is looking forward to working with valued customers of many years and having the opportunity to create cleaner, brighter, fresher carpets and upholstery throughout the homes of new clients.

Tim also has many years experience in the fitting of carpets and flooring.

If you would like more information about the services available please feel free to call and discuss your individual needs.

01142 818334 07920 473 973

50 years in business

There is nothing quite like having a piece of clothing designed and tailored exclusively for you.

At House of Churchill we believe that quality bespoke tailoring should be accessible to everyone without a premium price-tag.

In Just one initial appointment, our expert tailors will offer advice on cloth and style, but ultimately the choice is yours.

We offer home and office visits for a consulation to have a suit made. To book an appointment contact Ally Churchill directly today on 07540 288 222

2 piece suit starting from £800 3 piece starting from £950

House of Churchill, 5 Sunny Bar, Doncaster DN1 1LY | 01302 325882 www.house-of-churchill.co.uk | @HOC_suits

10 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

FINANCE

First for Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

PICK THE RIGHT PEOPLE GOOD STAFF ARE AN ASSET TO YOUR BUSINESS AND EMPLOYING AN APPRENTICE CAN BE A GREAT WAY OF OVERCOMING STAFF SHORTAGES, WRITES PHIL MEEKIN.

I

If you are running a business or considering starting a new one, it is essential that you have all the necessary components – the right premises, equipment, systems and infrastructure – and of course the right people. Most owners of successful businesses acknowledge that good staff are amongst their most valuable assets.

It is not just a case of number of employees, it is getting the right combination of skills. Ideally a business needs a mix of people, some with practical or creative abilities, some with management expertise and some good administrators. They also need those with people skills to sell and deal with customers.

The problem of skill shortages is well documented, particularly in some sectors of manufacturing. The apprenticeship scheme is a great way of addressing skill shortages and planning for continuity.

Historically, apprenticeships related to ‘trades’ – joiners, bricklayers, plumbers.

These days it is far wider, covering most industry sectors with apprenticeships as

right equipment is crucial whether that means shop displays, tools and machinery, IT equipment or vehicles.

These days there is a large choice of financing options to ensure you have the right assets to run your business.

With the staff and equipment in place, the final piece of the jigsaw is ensuring the business always has enough cash to continue trading.

Phil Meekin

diverse as beauty therapy, broadcasting, sporting excellence, sales and IT – to mention just a few. The scheme is not just aimed at school leavers – some are aimed at postgraduates.

It’s win – win. Employers can address staff needs and the cost of training is subsidised, whilst the apprentice receives training and experience and at the same time is paid.

But staffing is only one element needed to run a successful business. Having the

It is critical that businesses plan forward to ensure there is enough cash to keep the business afloat, particularly if you offer credit to your customers or are heavily involved in R & D. There are plenty of lenders in the market offering finance as well as private investors and alternative lenders and funders. In some cases grants and tax breaks are available for innovative and growing enterprises.

If despite your best plans, your business runs into financial difficulties, take advice at the earliest possible stage. There are many ways of helping businesses to survive but it is essential that you do not leave it until it is beyond help.

First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 11

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

Jackie Freeborn

Hayley Koseoglu

AS BAD AS IT SOUNDS?

THE REGION’S SUCCESSFUL BUSINESSWOMEN HIT BACK AT A SURVEY THAT CLAIMS SHEFFIELD IS WORSE PLACE TO BE FEMALE ENTREPRENEUR. heffield was recently dubbed the worst place in Britain to be a female entrepreneur.

S

The study says there is a “clear divide” between the opportunities on offer in the north and south of the UK.

According to the survey published earlier this year, the Steel City is joint with Manchester with a lack of opportunities for budding young businesswomen.

Louisa Harrison-Walker, the chairman of Sheffield Chamber Council and the owner of Benchmark Recruit, said she was disappointed by the survey’s findings.

The study of women in business, carried out by research company Reckless on behalf of the domestic cleaning firm Well-Polished, surveyed 1,000 female entrepreneurs in 19 UK cities.

Ms Harrison-Walker said: “As a recruitment company we see, on a daily basis, the relatively equal numbers of male and female applicants for jobs (in Sheffield) – it’s difficult and disappointing to believe that we perform the worst in the country for female entrepreneurs.

Sheffield came joint bottom with an average score of 4.9 out of 10, alongside Manchester, with Newcastle and Birmingham coming out on top with 5.9.

Overall, Yorkshire and the Humber came joint bottom out of all the UK regions with a score of just 5.3 out of 10 in the survey.

14 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

“We have moved forward in the last few years but the data implies that other cities have moved faster.”

And Hayley Koseoglu, who runs successful cleaning firm Crystal Clean

Service in Sheffield has rubbished the claims. She said: “I moved our offices into Sheffield in order to benefit from the brilliant things that happen within the Sheffield City Region.

“The best thing about the Sheffield City Region is the business community and the way in which they network, build relationships and help one another. My business is built on referrals which is extremely rare in this industry and would not have been possible without some of the fantastic business people I have had the privilege to meet over the last nine years.”

And Hayley offered some advice to budding female entrepreneurs looking at launching a new business.

“If you are willing to put the hard work in to making a success of your business it really doesn’t matter about your gender

WOMEN IN BUSINESS

SO WHAT HELP IS OUT THERE FOR BUDDING YOUNG BUSINESSWOMEN IN THE SHEFFIELD CITY REGION? There is plenty of advice and support available for free in the area for budding young female entrepreneurs wanting to emulate the success of individuals like Jackie, Julie and Lisa.

Louisa Harrison-Walker

The Growth Hub acts as one-stop-shop for both male and female entrepreneurs in the region wanting to set up in business.

Julie Kenny CBE Lisa Pogson

have made their mark and demonstrated being in the region is not a setback to being successful in business.

or where you’re based,” she said.

“Personally, I love working in the Sheffield City Region and my advice to anyone setting up in business would be to go out there and make it happen. Start networking and meet with other business owners.

There is always someone out there who can help, advise or point you in the right direction.”

Across the Sheffield City Region there are plenty of successful businesswomen like Hayley who

Its Launchpad programme provides free support to pre-start and new businesses in the Sheffield City Region through access to free workshops and events and one to one support from business advisors and mentors.

And its Y-Accelerator programme offers ambitious entrepreneurs the opportunity to develop an idea or early business in a supportive environment.

Some of the most well-known include Lisa Pogson, the first female president of Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber as well as Managing Director of Airmaster Air Conditioning.

The programme is built around modern business modelling techniques, with access to expert advice, mentors, specialist workshops, market research and tailored one-to-one support. The programme concludes with an investor pitch event, providing a unique opportunity to pitch your new business to a range of investors with a chance to win the £25k investment.

Julie Kenny CBE has recently joined well-known Sheffield conveyor belt company, Robson Handling Technology as chairwoman, after selling her Rotherham security firm Pyronix, which she built from scratch. Ms Kenny is also a LEP board member.

A pilot Y-Accelerator start-up programme saw female entrepreneur Mihaela Gruiat net a £25,000 equity investment from UK Steel Enterprise for her business Research Retold, which was established in April of last year to help researchers more effectively communicate their findings to policy-makers and the general public.

And Jackie Freeborn is the cofounder of the work-wise Foundation, an employer-led charity which supports the development of young people for employment, as well as Managing Director of SkinCare Yorkshire Ltd and chairwoman of Women in Business for Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce.

The Women in Business section of Barnsley and Rotherham Chamber of Commerce meets regularly for networking events as well as offering peer coaching and support. Its aim is to support women to have the confidence and means to be the best they can and achieve.

“THE BEST THING ABOUT THE SHEFFIELD CITY REGION IS THE BUSINESS COMMUNITY AND THE WAY IN WHICH THEY NETWORK, BUILD RELATIONSHIPS AND HELP ONE ANOTHER.” – HAYLEY KOSEOGLU, CRYSTAL CLEAN SERVICE

The next event is afternoon tea at Clifton Park Museum in Rotherham on 21 September. More information about the group is available at www.brchamber.co.uk Meanwhile the Sheffield branch of the Women in Business network meet monthly at Piccolino in Millennium Square, Sheffield from 12noon until 2pm. The membership organisation is aimed at women who want to gain new business opportunities through word of mouth. Members, who are from a variety of sectors, share business contacts and opportunities. More can be found on their website www.wibn.co.uk First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 15

UKBullion

Dealers in quality watches & diamonds

Tel: 0114 2664040

339-341 Ecclesall Rd, Sheffield S11 8PF

St Leger Week

Race Day DONCASTER Wednesday 13 September 2017

For the 16th year David Heugh will be organising and hosting the super St Leger Week Race Day. Come along and join us in the same exclusive Winning Post Marquee for one of the most important social and racing events on the sporting calendar.

It’s the perfect opportunity for private or corporate entertaining and we can assure you of good food and wine, sparkling company and a great day’s racing.

ONLY Plus, the usual Free Bar, all day!

145

£

PP plus VAT

For further information please contact David Heugh on 07785 243605 or email davidheugh@yahoo.co.uk Sponsored by Solutions 4 Cleaning and First for Business Magazine with the charity raffle in aid of the amazing Sheffield based charity Support Dogs

16 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

The special package in our private marquee by The Winning Post includes: I Morning Coffee and Biscuits I Super 3 Course Lunch I Full Afternoon Tea I Tipster I Free Parking PLUS!! A FREE BAR ALL DAY – UNLIMITED WINE, BEER, SOFT DRINKS

Expanding Horizons APPRENTICESHIPS TRAINING RECRUITMENT EDUCATION

Produced by First for Business www.ffb-online.co.uk • @ffbmagRMC

x

Expanding Horizons

Benefits for all Apprenticeships can offer a fast-track to a better career for young people and can also help businesses tailor-make a more skilled workforce. he Government showed its commitment to apprenticeships this year with the introduction of the levy. It came into force in April in a bid to increase the number of apprenticeship places to three million by 2020.

Apprenticeships can offer a fast-track to a better career for young people and can also help businesses tailor-make a more skilled workforce. And with ability for young people to earn while they learn they are becoming an increasingly popular option.

Apprenticeships are now available in a wide and varied range of sectors from engineering to retail, business administration to plastering and IT to accountancy. They can be a great way for

T

young people to kick off their career and gain a head start in the field in which they want to work. At the same time, apprenticeships deliver real benefits to businesses too. They are a tried and tested way of recruiting new staff or retraining existing staff, with the added advantage that learning can often be done in the workplace. They also help businesses to plug vital skills gaps.

Business owners can train people to specific job roles, making them suit the exact needs of their company.

There is also another added benefit in that there is plenty of support and funding available for firms wanting to take on an apprentice. Added to this is the introduction of the levy which is paid by all employers with a pay bill of more 3

than ÂŁ3million per year, means taking on an apprentice is even more attractive.

Employers tell HMRC how much apprenticeship levy they owe each month and access their levy account through the new Apprenticeship Service digital account. The levy can also be used to upskill current staff.

Whether you are a company looking at taking on new apprentices, or investing in current staff members there are plenty of training providers and colleges across the Sheffield City Region which can help.

And your business too can reap the benefits apprenticeships and training can bring to help to ensure the workforce of the future has the skills needed to strengthen the economy.

Expanding Horizons

MIND THE SKILLS GAP

YOU’VE DECIDED THAT APPRENTICESHIPS ARE RIGHT FOR YOUR BUSINESS – NOW WHAT?

A

s a Government-approved Apprentice Assessment Organisation (AAO) for End Point Assessments (EPA) for 29 apprenticeship standards in a range of sectors, NOCN believes in 'Making Apprenticeships Matter' for employers, training providers and apprentices and is the first port of call for many Sheffield based businesses for advice on how to get the most out of apprenticeships.

Here NOCN’s MD, Graham HastingEvans gives advice to businesses that have decided apprenticeships are right for them on what the next steps are and what they should focus on to ensure a successful apprenticeship journey for both their business and the apprentice.

Since the launch of the new Apprenticeship Levy in April of this year, many businesses are now embracing the opportunities to upskill their team and plug skills gaps, by employing apprentices, under the Government’s newly reformed apprenticeship scheme. As a leading centre for skills and employment development, Sheffield offers 20,000 apprenticeship opportunities across the region and as an independent EPA organisation, we are working with a number of them to embed successful

apprenticeship programmes into their businesses.

Here are my top three tips on important steps businesses need to take to ensure they get the most out of supporting apprenticeships.

1 Focus on quality Don’t just focus on price and fall into the trap of thinking that a higher price means higher quality. Choose the right training provider and assessment organisation that are quality assured, experienced in working with employers in your sector and share your organisation’s ethos and values.

‘Apprenticeships are an opportunity to increase diversity in your workforce and they must be designed to be open to all.’

4

2 Embrace diversity Apprenticeships are an opportunity to increase diversity in your workforce and they must be designed to be open to all.

Training and EPA providers should promote fairness by taking into account barriers to success such as confidence issues and English as a second language.

3 Think about the end, at the beginning Employers should ensure that their apprenticeships are designed to ensure that the apprentices can get through the End Point Assessment, by working in partnership with their assessment provider from the very outset.

As a leading independent apprentice assessment organisation, NOCN ensures that all apprentices have the knowledge, skills and behaviours detailed in the apprenticeship standard.

As a Government-approved AAO, NOCN is working with employers to ensure high quality, valid and robust EPA. To see the full list of apprenticeship standards that NOCN is approvedto assess visit: www.nocn.org.uk/apprenticeship_standards

Expanding Horizons

IMPROVING PRODUCTIVITY AND PROFITABILITY THROUGH SKILLS, TRAINING AND CULTURE It is well documented that the UK suffers from a serious and longstanding productivity gap, operating at around 30 per cent lower productivity than other G7 nations and according to the Office for National Statistics, the Yorkshire and Humber region has exhibited the sharpest fall in productivity in the last eight years and is operating at around 85 per cent of the national average.

Sheffield-based NOCN believes that addressing the UK's productivity challenge is absolutely vital, especially in the light of Brexit and general economic uncertainty, and is the only Awarding Organisation with qualifications specifically focusing on this, working with employers from micro businesses to large corporates on productivity improvement.

HOW CAN SHEFFIELD BUSINESSES IMPROVE PRODUCTIVITY? Invest in up-skilling your workforce Assessing your workforce and identifying skills gaps that are stifling productivity is a good place to start. NOCN worked with cheese manufacturing brand Norseland, a UK based SME to up-skill one of the company’s middle managers through the NOCN Level 4 Management of Productivity Diploma and the company’s Learning and Development Advisor felt that the result was of great value to the business: “The NOCN Management of Productivity Suite has enabled us to up-skill the future needs of our Management Team and it has already reaped rewards for the business; the project has enabled small changes that will have a big impact on productivity.”

Plug skills gaps with apprenticeships Apprenticeships are an excellent way to nurture and develop your own talent pools, and managed properly can boost a company’s skills-base and create a committed, able and highly competitive workforce. The Governments Apprenticeship Levy came into force in April in a bid to increase apprenticeship places to three million by 2020 and as a leading Governmentapproved AAO, NOCN is already working with a number of employers to maximise the opportunities the apprenticeship levy creates for businesses of all sizes across a number of different sectors.

Embrace diversity, equality and inclusivity The link between diversity and productivity in business is clear. a diverse workforce stimulates innovation by bringing different perspectives and approaches to problem-solving. Apprenticeships are one way to bring a new diverse generation of talent into your business. Inclusive learning and development for existing staff to help them progress through the business can also help give something back to the local economy by boosting individuals’ social mobility

PRODUCTIVITY QUALIFICATIONS AVAILABLE THROUGH NOCN INCLUDE: • NOCN Level 4 Certificate in the Management of Productivity • NOCN Level 4 Diploma in the Management of Productivity • NOCN Level 5 Award in Productivity Improvement Practice • NOCN Level 5 Certificate in Productivity Improvement Practice • NOCN Level 5 Diploma in Productivity Improvement Practice • NOCN Level 5 Data Analysis in Support of Productivity Improvement Projects

and employability.

NOCN was recently accredited as a Leader in Diversity by the National Centre for Diversity, a leading organisation promoting equality for all in the UK, in recognition of its commitment to both internal staff and external learners and centres.

The Government’s Productivity Leadership Team has launched bethebusiness.com to address the UK’s productivity gap by encouraging and supporting businesses and organisations to improve performance output and change workforce behaviour, which is a great place to start.

5

Expanding Horizons

HOW DIVERSITY CAN BRING COMPETITIVE ADVANTAGE TO EMPLOYERS The new Apprenticeship Levy, introduced in April 2017, provides an exciting opportunity for employers to create a more diverse workforce by offering vocational training opportunities to a wide pool of prospective employees.

Sheffield-based Apprentice Assessment Organisation (AAO) NOCN heavily promotes the diversity agenda and was recently accredited as a Leader in

Diversity in recognition of its commitment to both its internal staff, external learners and centres. Working with businesses in Sheffield and internationally, NOCN supports those businesses to promote fairness when it comes to apprenticeships, ensuring that opportunities are available to all.

Whilst a lot has been done in this area barriers still remain and some groups

NOCN BACKING AWARDS As an official sponsor, NOCN is delighted to be sponsoring the Asian Apprenticeship Awards 2017 for which nominations in the following categories are now open: • Finance, legal and professional services • Retail, hospitality and tourism • Health, medical and social care • Charity, voluntary organisations and public services • Engineering and manufacturing • Construction • Creative and digital • Transport and logistics • SME of the year • Large business of the year • School or Academy of the year (Sponsored by NOCN) • Learning provider of the year As a local business, you can nominate an apprentice or learning provider to be considered for an award.The deadline for entries is 11 September 2017.

This year’s national awards ceremony will be held on 2 November 2017 at the Edgbaston Stadium in Birmingham.

To make a nomination, visit www.asianapprenticeshipawards.co.uk

‘As a leading Apprentice Assessment Organisation with 'Leader in Diversity' accreditation, NOCN is committed to ensuring that apprenticeship s are open to all. The Asian Apprenticeship Awards is a great way to celebrate diversity and create role models in an area where take up is currently low.’

NOCN MD Graham Hasting-Evans 6

remain under-represented when it comes to apprenticeships or disadvantaged due to race, sex, disability, learning difficulty, sexual orientation, gender identity, religion or belief. Research shows that a large proportion of school leavers still deem apprenticeships more suitable for boys than girls for example and so much more needs to be done if we are to ever plug skills gaps and increase productivity.

HOW CAN BUSINESSES ATTRACT A MORE DIVERSE WORKFORCE THROUGH APPRENTICESHIPS? Apprenticeships are one of the most vital routes to supporting a more diverse range of individuals entering different industries and therefore the application process must be inclusive, removing any barriers to entry and progression. NOCN’s Equality, Diversity and Inclusion policy is called Valuing All, because all people are valued and this ethos is part of everything that the organisation offers. Businesses need to ensure that their apprenticeship opportunities are inclusive and accessible to all to attract a more diverse talent pool.

To find out more please visit www.nocn.org.uk

MAKE APPRENTICESHIPS MATTER NOCN is a top-two Government-approved Apprentice Assessment Organisation (AAO) at the forefront of the reforms, making apprenticeships matter for employers, training providers and apprentices.

Supporting employers, training providers and apprentices from pre-assessment to completion with a flexible and cost effective approach

Approved to deliver End-Point Assessments (EPA) in tandem with employers and providers across several occupational areas: Business and Administration Construction Engineering and Manufacturing Health and Science Legal, Finance and Accounting Sales, Marketing and Procurement Social Care

Operationally ready to carry out End Point Assessments NOW!

If you haven’t selected an AAO for your EPA yet, here’s 10 reasons why you should choose NOCN: 1 2 3 4 5 6 7 8 9 10

AAO operationally ready to deliver EPA now Transparent and competitively priced EPA fees Vocational experience and assessment expertise Friendly, flexible and responsive service EPA Management IT system: Horizon On-going EPA support from pre-assessment to completion Client assurance - NOCN regulated by Ofqual with excellent QA processes Rapid turnaround of NOCN EPA certificates Focus on social mobility and commercial impact, not profit An ethos and passion for creating opportunities through vocational skills

BOOK YOUR FREE APPRENTICESHIP READINESS ASSESSMENT TODAY Call 0114 227 0500 www.nocn.org.uk @nocn1 nocn1 nocn

Expanding Horizons

Improve & innovate With a passion for education, new CEO at The Source, Tricia Smith, is keen to build on the academy’s already stellar reputation. ricia Smith has recently been unveiled as the new Chief Executive Officer at The Source Skills Academy, following the retirement of Ann Cadman OBE.

T

developing these relationships is critical.

Thinking about apprentice reforms, smaller providers need to work together within a consortium to deliver a single cohesive offer to an organisation.

Her appointment coincides with The Source, a leading provider of apprenticeships, training and employment support, being awarded an impressive ‘good’ rating by Ofsted inspectors.

“If you want to secure large apprenticeship levy contracts you need to make it simple. Providers need to work together to make that happen. If you get your model right and you are delivering good high-quality training then

And Tricia, who joins the team from Barnsley College where she was Director of Business Development, said she was relishing her new role.

New Chief Executive Officer at The Source Skills Academy,Tricia Smith

“I absolutely love it, it’s an amazing place,” she said. “Within hours of starting at The Source what was evident was the passion and commitment of staff and how they all work together.

“The overarching thing that came out as the weeks have gone by is the eagerness, they want to do things to improve, to be innovative it’s exciting. I have been talking about things I would like to see happen and everybody has been excited.”

Tricia said she knew The Source had a good external reputation when she took the job. A reputation which has been given a further boost by the latest Ofsted report. But she promised the organisation would not rest on its laurels.

“Continuous improvement is something we strive for,” she said. “The Oftsed framework is continuously changing and part of my job is to make sure I understand the Government policy and drives to make sure we have the ability to adapt to change and be responsive.”

She added: “There are challenging times ahead. The biggest change we face is on a financial front.

“We work very closely with local colleges and providers and further 8

you should flourish.”

She added: “Going forward we need to ensure The Source remains sustainable and has the ability to meet employer and business needs in whatever political landscape we find ourselves in.

“Education is my passion. Being able to provide high quality training that makes a difference to young adults to meet their aspirations and give them opportunities is what drives me.”

Expanding Horizons

CASE STUDY

AN APPRENTIC E VIEW – ELLIOTT ARM ITAGE, AFFINITY IT SER VICES. ing Edward VII student, Elliott Armitage, was sitting his GCSEs when he decided to take the step into employment and embark on an apprenticeship. Now, a year on, 17year-old Elliott is on track to complete his Level 3 Sales and Marketing Apprenticeship with Sheffield IT firm, Affinity IT Services.

K

The natural path for Elliott would have been to go into the school’s sixth form but his predicted grades meant he wasn’t guaranteed a place.

“I’d assumed I would go onto sixth form and study business, but I wasn’t predicted a high enough grade in English and I didn’t want to go to college or to university, so an apprenticeship was ideal,” explains Elliott.

Elliott set about looking for apprenticeship opportunities and found the Affinity IT vacancy through The Source Academy – with an interest in IT the role was perfect and he was successful at interview and took the role as Trainee Account Manager.

Talking about his experience he says: “I was determined to find an active role where I could work independently within a domestic business, as I really

wanted some experience within the IT sector.

“IT is one of the fastest growing business types, especially for millennials so in my opinion the role fitted me perfectly and was worth applying for even if I was not 100 per cent sure on what my job role would be.

“I really enjoy my job and working for Affinity and I hope to work here as an independent member of the Affinity team and continue to help the growth of this professional, fun and proactive business.

“Being able to share my experience with new apprentices and supporting their growth within this same role in a few years’ time is also something I would like the opportunity to do.”

Elliott said he would happily recommend an apprenticeship to other school leavers saying: “I have found my apprenticeship to be invaluable, I’ve had amazing support from my Source tutor who has given me the knowledge to better fulfil my role and set me up for my future. I did end up with an A in English so I could have gone to sixth form, but I don’t regret my decision for a minute and I’d tell anyone who is considering an apprenticeship to go for it.”

9

Commenting on Elliott’s commitment and impact at the company, Managing Director Colin Beaumont said: “Managed and coached by our own David Capel, Elliott has really grown into his role as Junior Account Manager here at Affinity. Numerous customers who have become aware of his age have commented on Elliott’s maturity and professionalism and how they belie his years.

“Elliott has directly played a part in bringing new clients to Affinity for IT Services and Telecoms, including a large multinational organisation. In addition to fulfilling his normal duties Elliott continues to grow and interpret situations, spotting opportunities for himself and Affinity. He is certainly one of our biggest success stories.

“Apprentices in accounting, sales and technical roles have played a key part in the growth of Affinity over the last few years. Our industry is traditionally a particularly stressful and cutthroat one so having a team who can be relied on and who support each other is essential. Our successful apprentices have indeed fitted into this ethos and adopted our values across the board.”

CONFERENCES

d d, / < ^ŝƚƵĂƚĞĚ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ĞĚŐĞ ŽĨ ƚŚĞ WĞĂŬ ŝƐƚƌŝĐƚ ŽīĞƌŝŶŐ stunning views and tranquillity, this is the ideal ůŽĐĂƟŽŶ ĨŽƌ LJŽƵƌ ĐŽŶĨĞƌĞŶĐĞ͕ ŵĞĞƟŶŐ Žƌ training event, providing focus to your delegates ŝŶ ďĞĂƵƟĨƵů ƐƵƌƌŽƵŶĚŝŶŐƐ͘ tĞ ŽīĞƌ Ă ĐŚŽŝĐĞ ŽĨ ƌŽŽŵƐ ĂŶĚ ůŽƵŶŐĞƐ ĨŽƌ ŚŝƌĞ͕ ƐƵŝƚĂďůĞ ĨƌŽŵ ϮϬ ƵƉ ƚŽ ϭϮϬ͕ ǁŝƚŚ ĂŵƉůĞ ĐĂƌ ƉĂƌŬŝŶŐ ĂŶĚ ϯϴ ůĂƌŐĞ ĐŽŵĨŽƌƚĂďůĞ ďĞĚƌŽŽŵƐ͕ ǁĞ ĐĂŶ ƚĂŝůŽƌ ƚŚĞ ĂƌƌĂŶŐĞŵĞŶƚƐ ƚŽ ĂŶLJ ĞǀĞŶƚ ƚŽ ƐƵŝƚ LJŽƵƌ ƉĂƌƟĐƵůĂƌ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚƐ͘ DĞĂůƐ Θ ƌĞĨƌĞƐŚŵĞŶƚƐ ĂƌĞ ƉƌĞƉĂƌĞĚ ĨƌŽŵ ŚŝŐŚ ƋƵĂůŝƚLJ͕ ůŽĐĂů ƉƌŽĚƵĐĞ ǁŚŝůƐƚ ďĞĚƌŽŽŵƐ ĂŶĚ ƐŽĐŝĂů ĂƌĞĂƐ ĂƌĞ ǁĂƌŵ͕ ĐŽŵĨŽƌƚĂďůĞ Θ ŚŽŵĞůLJ ƌĞŇĞĐƟŶŐ ŽŶ ƚŚĞ ĂƌĞĂ͛Ɛ ŚŝƐƚŽƌLJ ĂŶĚ ĂŶŐůŝŶŐ ďĂĐŬŐƌŽƵŶĚ͘ ŽŶƚĂĐƚ ƵƐ ƚŽĚĂLJ ĨŽƌ ŵŽƌĞ ŝŶĨŽƌŵĂƟŽŶ Žƌ ƚŽ ĚŝƐĐƵƐƐ LJŽƵƌ ƌĞƋƵŝƌĞŵĞŶƚƐ ŝŶ ŵŽƌĞ ĚĞƚĂŝů͘ ƌĞĐĞƉƟŽŶΛŝnjĂĂŬǁĂůƚŽŶŚŽƚĞů͘ĐŽŵ

Ϭϭϯϯϱ 220071 ǁǁǁ͘ŝnjĂĂŬǁĂůƚŽŶŚŽƚĞů͘ĐŽŵ ŽǀĞĚĂůĞ͕ /ůĂŵ͕ Ŷƌ ƐŚďŽƵƌŶĞ͕ ϲ Ϯ z

Bringing comfort to your environment ៉ Design ៉ Commissioning ៉ Maintenance ៉ Installation ៉ Servicing ៉ Energy Assessment Airmaster Air Conditioning Limited Wetherby House | Parkhill | Swallownest | Sheffield S26 4UN

Tel: 0114 288 9911 | Fax: 0114 288 9922 Email: team@airmaster.uk.com | Web: www.airmaster.uk.com 10

Expanding Horizons

Case study When it comes to training at work and apprenticeship courses there is a vast array of opportunity out there.

THE SOURCE CASE STUDY OMAR MAGDEDY The Retail Path Apprenticeship programme with Meadowhall has given 26-year-old Omar Magdedy more than just a qualification, it has developed his future in more ways than he could have ever imagined.

Omar came to the UK as a refugee alone after fleeing the war in his native country, Sudan. He has been living in Sheffield since 2015 and was offered the apprenticeship opportunity after attending an interview at Meadowhall for a customer service role.

He decided to take the apprenticeship in preference to a part-time role as he knew it would help him to develop skills, gain support with his English and allow him to achieve a qualification to pursue his future aspirations.

“The opportunity I have been given

has been so valuable to me,” he said. “I have gained so much experience in so many areas. I have learnt about British culture and values, I have been able to develop business skills and learn how to develop relationships with and experience people from different backgrounds, religions and race.

“The Retail Path Apprenticeship has given me a bright future. I have gained employment and experience in a role I really enjoy. Academically I have gained an English Language certificate and I will achieve a qualification which will help me to get onto an access course so I am able to study at university.

“I hope to study business and management at university and I hope to be an analyst one day. I’d like to work in a management or supervisor role and I would stay in the retail sector because I find it interesting and exciting.

“I would recommend the Retail Path 11

Apprenticeship for anyone looking to develop their skills in customer service, problem solving and business skills in the retail sector. An apprenticeship is the best route and it gives you all the skills you need for your future. For me, I am no longer scared of my future and I don’t think I would feel that way if it wasn’t for my apprenticeship.”

The Retail Path project at Meadowhall is funded by British Land and the Revo Educational Trust. It is delivered by The Source Skills Academy, a training centre set up by British Land and Sheffield City Council in 2003.

THE HEART OF SHEFFIELDâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;S DYNAMIC SOCIAL SCENE

www.sheffieldvibe.com #shoutaboutsheff

L&TA

office furniture

TELEPHONE: 0114 242 5511

Sheffield & Doncaster l United Kingdom

Looking for new

office furniture?

Why not come along to LTA in Sheffield and Doncaster and see our range of new furniture. We will plan and install your new furniture for you and also remove your exisitng furniture.

UNIT 2-3 STEVENSON INDUSTRIAL EST., STEVENSON WAY, SHEFFIELD, S9 3WZ TELEPHONE: 0114 242 5511 115-121 BALBY ROAD, DONCASTER, DN4 0RE TELEPHONE: 01302 215 565

L&TA work with many leading companies & organistations in the region.

www.ltasheffield.com

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

The Westfield Health offices on Charter Row

FUN FACTOR

FROM PLAYZONES TO CLIMBING WALLS AND SLIDES TO SLEEP AMBASSADORS, MODERN OFFICES ARE FAR REMOVED FROM THE STUFFY, FACELESS INTERIORS OF THE PAST. BY CLARE PARKIN.

ffices are getting more and more creative. Gone are the days of sterile environments with row upon row of identical desks, chairs and computers. Now it could be said it’s all about the fun factor.

O

Google is well known for its supercool workspaces. It’s Zurich office has eggshaped pods that serve as meeting rooms as well as basketball nets and football pitches for those that fancy some physical exercise. While in Washington there is a rock climbing wall

30 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

inside the office and Google’s Toronto employees can play mini-golf on the roof.

And at LinkedIn California headquarters there is a music room full of keyboards, drums, guitars and audio equipment.

Closer to home marketing agency Social Chain in Manchester has a slide and ball pool and ping-pong table in its office.

In the Steel City things are no different.

Sheffield’s Electric Works is well known for its three-storey helter skelter for staff

not wanting to take the stairs. It made the headlines when it opened in 2009 and it’s still believed to be the only one in a UK office.

Healthcare firm B. Braun Medical is one of the latest companies in the Sheffield City Region to open an ultra-modern new workspace. It boasts bamboo, glass and voile – plus a 100-seat auditorium. It also has a business centre, meeting zones and a full-service café at the firm’s head office and distribution centre at Thorncliffe Park.

FEATURE

The creation involved 35 skips, 1,000 light bulbs and more than 80 skilled tradespeople to create the look and was created by Insyte in conjunction with sister company Corporate Workspace.

George Law’s mural at the Westfield Health offices on Charter Row

B. Braun Medical Ltd Group Chief Executive Hans Hux, said: “We’re very proud of our new ultra-modern collaborative workspace, more efficient use of warehouse and distribution space, our state-of-the-art business centre and auditorium plus catering facilities.

“The team at Insyte have helped us develop our Thorncliffe Park site into a dynamic, modern, healthy and holistic workspace that helps staff to feel creative, inspired and comfortable in their surroundings.

“We’ve made it our mission to strengthen the city business region as one of the premier locations in the country for healthcare technology and patient care. We have stayed true to our Sheffield roots and this major upgrade and refurbishment project is further evidence of our commitment to our business, to our employees and to Sheffield as our UK headquarters location.”

Marketing agency Jaywing is another company which has invested a lot of thought into its new headquarters in a former derelict forge in Sidney Street, Sheffield.

“The opportunity to create a more inspirational space in a ‘ground-up’ development of a truly modern working environment, married with the rich cultural heritage of the Sheffield steel and silver industry was too good to miss – it strikes at the heart of what we’re about as an organisation,” UK and Australia CEO Rob Shaw said.

“Designing sympathetically and almost from scratch means we’ve been able to include features that showcase the building’s history and deliver purposebuilt event and collaborative spaces.”

Another company realising the importance of a great work environment is Westfield Health. Its new headquarters on Charter Row is an eight-storey building with a roof terrace with 360degree views overlooking the city.

The building also includes three enterprise hub spaces which have been allocated to support the growth of health and wellbeing start-ups.

Westfield Health has also installed a spacious new customer hub with iPads for self-service and staff have access to a fitness suite, a relaxation room and the staff room, also known as the ‘playzone’ which offers leisure activities including a jukebox and table football.

Doodle artist Geo Law – who’s been commissioned by the likes of Facebook, Converse and Microsoft – created a mural in the playzone containing quirky aspects of Sheffield culture as well as referencing the city’s industrial past and also has a strong focus on the concept of wellbeing.

A Sleep Ambassador, James Wilson, also known as the ‘Sleep Geek’, also works internally to offer employees a range of

group and one-to-one sleep coaching sessions in the ‘science of sleep’.

The innovative new building was recognised at the Celebrating Construction in South Yorkshire Awards 2016 where it came out on top in the Project of the Year Over £5million category.

Sheffield-based manufacturer of the iconic wire fastener, Gripple has just transformed its riverside base in Attercliffe. Dubbed by the company as the ‘industrial cathedral’ because of its ‘stained glass’ colour windows, the new ‘green’ design includes £350,000 spent on 400 solar panels to heat water drawn from the River Don, a green wall of plants and a fish tank which is home to some sizeable koi.

The extended building has curves and walls set at an eight-degree angle to avoid conventional straight lines and is surrounded by gardens.

With research showing that happy employees are productive employees it seems innovative, creative working environments are the offices of the future.

B. Braun Medical’s new workspace boasts bamboo, glass and voile – plus a 100-seat auditorium. Images courtesy Insyte

First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 31

First For Business

AUGUST 2017

www.ffb-online.co.uk

WORK AND PLAY

A MONTHLY ROUND-UP OF NEWS, ACHIEVEMENTS, CELEBRATIONS AND NEW FACES

DIGITAL TECHNOLOGY INSTITUTE AT THE HEART OF SHEFFIELD CHANNEL 4 BID Plans to move Channel 4 to Sheffield could lead to a national institute of digital talent and technology being established in the city.

Sheffield City Council, which is leading the city’s bid to establish a northern base for the broadcaster, has also released an image of what a new site could look like at the entrance to Sheffield Station.

A Sheffield headquarters for Channel 4 could bring up to 4,050 highly-skilled jobs to the city by 2027 and create an

additional £1bn for the economy over the next 10 years.

The plans for a new digital talent and technology centre, and an offer to Channel 4 executives to base its operations at the Digital Campus on Sheaf Street, are revealed in the Council’s response to the Department of Culture, Media and Sport’s consultation, Increasing the Regional Impact of Channel 4 Corporation.

Sheffield City Council has offered Channel 4 a prime location at the heart of the city, right next to the main railway station, with high speed, direct rail services to every major UK city, and the prospect of HS2 and HS3 in years to

come, connecting Channel 4 to the independent sector.

In addition , the council has offered Channel 4 space at the Digital Campus, which provides 80,000 square ft of Grade A office space, which it could move into immediately.

GRIPPLE OPENS £2M FACTORY Sheffield wire-fastener Gripple has celebrated the transformation of its riverside factory with an official opening by Sheffield’s Master Cutler Richard Edwards.

‘Chewy Bacchus’ (left) of Firefly with John Dyche

JOHN’S £1,000 THANK-YOU John Dyche, an employee at Sheffield transit packaging specialist Loadhog was so pleased with the support he and his family received from Firefly Cancer Awareness and Support in Doncaster that he nominated the charity for a £1,000 donation by his employer.

The charity was set up in 2006 after realising that cancer patients in Doncaster had great difficulty in attending their appointments at major medical centres in Sheffield.

Firefly has five vehicles, driven by a dedicated group of volunteers. Each carries up to seven people and covers up to 250 miles, with between 20 and 40 passengers daily.

32 First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk

The event included live music, entertainment and food stalls at the Attercliffe factory, in which employeeowned Gripple has invested £2m.

Fifteen more jobs have been created, with more expected this year.

Providing 7,000 sq.ft more production space than the original premises, the revamped building allows Gripple to cope with its current growth, particularly in the UK. It has been dubbed by the company as the ‘industrial cathedral’ because of its ‘stained glass’ windows.

Master Cutler Richard Edwards at the Gripple official opening

Paul Taylor (left) and Sam Leeder

BROKERAGE GETS OFF THE GROUND A new insurance brokerage has been launched in South Yorkshire.

Sam Leeder and Paul Taylor have launched Actus Insurance, based in Sheffield, and will be using their combined 38 years’ experience in the industry to help businesses across South Yorkshire and beyond.

The new brokerage is partnering with the respected Gauntlet Group, based in Leeds.

Commercial clients across the north in manufacturing, engineering, construction, plant and property are on Sam and Paul’s radar, but they will also be assisting professionals such as surveyors, accountants, architects, engineers and solicitors.

WORK & PLAY

£50M TURNOVER BOOST HELPS MILLGATE MARK 21ST ANNIVERSARY MILESTONE A tech firm marking more than two decades in business is on course to post turnover in excess of £50m this year.

Sheffield-based Millgate, celebrating its 21st anniversary in business, is forecasting that it will hit the milestone for 2017 after enjoying another year of solid growth – compared with £500,000 in its first year of trading.

Established in 1996 in Rotherham with three staff providing IT and communication solutions for businesses in Yorkshire, Millgate today employs 115 people and serves more than 6,000 customers across the UK. Millgate managing director Chris Calvert

Basaed on Vantage Drive, Sheffield, Millgate was shortlisted in the ‘Best Company to Work for’ category of technology trade magazine CRN’s Sales and Marketing awards last month and is one of CRN’s Top 100 list VARs – or Value-Added Resellers – in the country.

GRIPPLE LAUNCHES CAREERS WEB PAGE

FORMER MINER HONOURED A development of 13 business units at Markham Vale, Chesterfield, has been named in honour of Johnny Wilson, who died while as a miner at the former colliery in 1987.

Wilson Business Park, currently being marketed by Commercial Property Partners (CPP) and Sheffield-based agents Colloco, was granted planning permission before Christmas with units expected to be ready for occupation this month. The scheme is being developed

by Priority Space in a joint venture partnership with Hunt Group.

Andy Carroll, a colleague and friend of Johnny’s, came up with the idea after responding to a social media campaign.

The units, all ranging from 1,200 – 3050 square feet are available to buy, presenting a unique opportunity in the market for businesses to own a building on Derbyshire’s flagship business park.

Sheffield-based manufacturer Gripple has launched the company’s first career-dedicated web page.

It has been developed by employee-owned Gripple’s five-strong global people and culture team and designed by its in-house marketing team.

The page features comprehensive company details, current vacancies, and items about Gripple’s work with the community, along with several employee videos.

Sections are also devoted to employees who have joined the company through award-winning Gripple’s annual graduate and apprenticeship schemes.

The new page is accessible not only through the company’s website but also via Instagram, Facebook, Twitter and LinkedIn. Visitors to the Gripple Careers page – gripple.com/careers – can also register and set up job alerts.

CHARITY TEAMS UP WITH WESTFIELD HEALTH Business-led charity Doncaster Business For The Community has formed a partnership with health provider Westfield Health.

The charity, which launched last month, seeks to engage local businesses in new ways to raise much-needed funds for local charities and community projects through participation in sports-related events.

Nigel Tomlinson and Kevin Anderson

Kevin Anderson, chief marketing officer for Westfield Health said: “Westfield Health is delighted to support the Doncaster Business for the Community initiative to help make a difference to some of Doncaster’s most deserving charities and community projects affecting young people.”

Nigel Tomlinson, of DB4C, said: “This is not just about sponsorship, this is a natural partnership in that both DB4C and Westfield Health are dedicated to improving health through physical exercise and giving back to the community.”

Mark Reed and Sophie Chapman

AFFECTO EXPANDS Specialist tech recruitment firm Affecto Recruitment has made the latest in a string of appointments.

Senior recruiter Mark Reed has been promoted to the position of Business Manager after just 12 months with the Sheffield-based specialist tech recruitment firm and will now be responsible for day-to-day operations of the company, which celebrated record turnover in 2016.

Sophie Chapman-Dempster has joined the firm’s project and programme delivery.

Daniel Koseoglu, MD of Affecto, said he wanted the business to continue to drive the thriving tech sector in Sheffield and beyond, and that the new company structure would support its ambitious targets.

First For Business | www.ffb-online.co.uk 33

D E E W MOV E V A

H

Audi A3 2.0 TDI SE Sportback 5dr

£9,985 UNBELIEVABLE MPG

£20 ROAD TAX

· Model year:2014 (14) · Fuel type:Diesel · Mileage:86,000

· Transmission:Manual · Engine size:2.0L · Colour:White

Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech SE 5dr

£8,995 · Model year:2013 (13) · Fuel type:Diesel · Mileage:74,955

· Transmission:Manual · Engine size:2.0L · Colour:Black

Mercedes-Benz E Class 3.0 E350 CDI BlueTEC

£17,475 · Sat Nav, Leather /Suede · Model year:2014 (14) · Fuel type:Diesel · Mileage:95,000

· Transmission:Automatic · Engine size:3.0L · Colour:White

Volvo XC70 2.4 TD D5 SE Geartronic AWD 5dr (nav)

Audi A1 1.6 TDI Sport Sportback 5dr White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £9 890 Audi A4 2.0 TDI SE 4dr Red Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £9 995 Audi A4 2.0 TDI SE Technik 4dr Silver Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £13 495 Audi A4 2.0 TDI e SE Technik 4dr Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £13 990 Audi A4 Avant 2.0 TDI e SE 5dr Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £9 485 BMW 1 Series 2.0 120i Sport 2dr Black Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £6 785 BMW 3 Series 2.0 318i SE Business Edition 4dr Grey Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £7 885 BMW 3 Series 2.0 320d EfficientDynamics Business Edition 5dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . £10 980 BMW Alpina D3 Bi-Turbo Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £10 985 BMW K1300S K1300S HP Silver Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5 895 Chevrolet Orlando 1.8 LT 5dr White Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £7 495 Citroen Berlingo Multispace 1.6 HDi XTR 5dr Blue Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4 995 Citroen C4 Picasso 1.6 HDi VTR+ 5dr Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £5 885 Citroen Ds3 1.6 Vti 16V DStyle PLUS 3 door White . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 970 Citroen Ds3 1.6 e-HDI Airdream Style Plus Red . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7 978 Fiat Doblo 1.3 JTD Multijet 16v 4dr White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4 895 Ford Fiesta 1.0 EcoBoost Zetec S Hatchback 3dr (start/stop) Blue Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £8 990 Ford Fiesta 1.4 TDCi DPF Zetec 5dr White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £4 495 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi ECOnetic Titanium Navigator 5dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £8 495 Ford Focus 1.6 TDCi ECOnetic Zetec Navigator 5dr Red Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £8 990 Ford Focus 2.0 TDCi Titanium Navigator Powershift 5dr Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £7 485 Ford Focus 2.5 SIV ST-2 3dr Red Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £9 590 Ford Mondeo 1.6 TDCi ECO Titanium X 5dr (start/stop) White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £8 990 Ford Mondeo 2.0 TDCi Edge 5dr Silver Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4 495 Jaguar S-Type 2.7 D V6 Sport 4dr 120 000 Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 995 Land Rover Range Rover 3.0 TD V6 Vogue SE 4x4 5dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£49 995 Mazda Mazda6 2.2 TD SKYACTIV-D SE-L Nav Tourer 5dr Blue Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . £12 995 Mercedes-Benz A Class 1.5 A180 CDI Sport 5dr White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£10 995 Mercedes-Benz C Class 2.1 C200 CDI Elegance 4dr Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4 995 Mercedes-Benz E Class 2.1 E250 CDI BlueEFFICIENCY SE 2dr Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£8 985 Mercedes-Benz E Class 3.0 E350 CDI BlueTEC AMG Sport 7G-Tronic Plus 4dr White Diesel . . . .£16 990 Nissan Juke 1.6 16v Tekna 5dr (start/stop) White Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£8 895 Nissan Qashqai 1.6 Visia 5dr Red Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 485 Peugeot 207 CC 1.6 HDi FAP GT 2dr Silver Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4 895 Peugeot 207 SW 1.4 VTi Millesim 5dr (a/c) Grey Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 495 Peugeot 508 2.0 HDi FAP SR 4dr Blue Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4 495 Peugeot Partner Tepee 1.6 HDi Tepee S 5dr 53 000 Blue 18/03/2011 Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 495 Renault Master 2.5 dCi DCLL35 Crewcab Dropside 4dr no VAT Grey 09/04/2010 Diesel . . . . . . . . .£4 995 Renault Megane 1.5 dCi ECO FAP Dynamique 3dr (Tom Tom) 70 000 Black 25/05/2011 Diesel . .£4 995 Renault Scenic 1.5 dCi FAP Expression 5dr 89 000 Blue 30/09/2010 Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 685 Renault Trafic 1.6 dCi LL29 Business Low Roof Van 5dr White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£10 480 SEAT Ibiza 1.2 TSI FR SportCoupe 3dr White Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 490 SEAT Leon 2.0 TDI FR 5dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£11 390 Skoda Octavia 2.0 TDI CR vRS DSG 5dr 112 000 Black 01/06/2011 Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5 995 Vauxhall Astra 1.7 CDTi ecoFLEX 16v ES 5dr (start/stop) Silver Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5 985 Vauxhall Astra 2.0 CDTi 16v SRi 5dr Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£8 995 Vauxhall Astra 2.0 CDTi ecoFLEX SRi 5dr (start/stop) Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£8 485 Vauxhall Astra GTC 1.7 CDTi 16v Sport 3dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7 495 Vauxhall Astra GTC 2.0 CDTi 16v Sport 3dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7 995 auxhall Corsa 1.3 CDTi ecoFLEX 16v Exclusiv 5dr (start/stop) White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4 995 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi 16v SE 5dr Grey Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 990 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi 16v SRi VX-Line 5dr Blue Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 995 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi ecoFLEX 16v SE 4x4 4dr (start/stop) Silver Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 485 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi ecoFLEX 16v SRi 5dr (start/stop) White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£5 985 Vauxhall Insignia 2.0 CDTi ecoFLEX Design 5dr (start/stop) Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£6 995 Vauxhall Movano White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 485 Vauxhall Vivaro 2.0CDTi 2900 EcoFLEX SWB Panel Van White Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 895 Vauxhall Zafira 1.6 i Energy 5dr Black Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 495 Volkswagen Beetle 1.6 S Cabriolet 2dr Silver Petrol . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£3 995 Volkswagen Eos 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech CR Sport Cabriolet 2dr 80000 Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . .£7 495 Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI BlueMotion Tech Match Hatchback 5dr (start/stop) Blue Diesel . . . . . . . .£9 995 Volkswagen Golf 1.6 TDI S Hatchback 5dr (start/stop) Red Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7 895 Volkswagen Golf 2.0 TDI CR SE 5dr Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£4 780 Volkswagen Scirocco 2.0 TDI BlueMotion Tech 3dr Black Diesel . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£9 985 Volkswagen Passat 2.0 TDI Bluemotion Tech Sport Estate Bronze . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£7 995 Volkswagen Passat CC 2.0 TDI Bluemotion Tech Silver . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . .£9 485

£19,980 THIS CAR IS VERY RARE BE QUICK · Model year:2015 (15) · Fuel type:Diesel

· Mileage:36,000 · Transmission:Automatic · Engine size:2.4L · Colour:White

Milethorne Lane, Doncaster, DN12SU Tel: 01302 368037 Fax: 01302 326905 Email: www.fleetdirect@btconnect.com Website: www.fleetcarsdirectofdoncaster.co.uk Vat No 874 8120 07 Fleet Cars Direct is a trading style of Fleet Direct

D DoncasterRaces oncasterRaces

@DoncasterRaces @DoncasterRaces

#MUSICLIVE2017