Yorkshire’s Forward Ladies, the women’s organisation established in 2000 by Etta Cohen was sold recently in a member buyout to Griselda Togobo, a consulting entrepreneur.

With 13,000 members across the country, Griselda has taken on quite the challenge. Griselda spoke to Bdaily about the problems she faces, the importance of networking and where she plans on taking Forward Ladies from here, to modernise and revamp the organisation.

 How did you first get involved with Forward Ladies, how long have you been a member?

A friend invited me to a Forward Ladies event a few years ago when I set up my consulting business www.awovi.com. I needed to network but found it challenging as I had a young family and the networking events I heard of all seemed to be scheduled outside of nursery opening times - making them impossible to attend. I also wasn’t excited by the prospect of entering a room full of grey suited men so Forward Ladies was the only way I could network during that time. I found the network really supportive so I became a member, an ambassador and a licensee over the coming years.

Why did you decide to buy the organization? 

This is a question I’ve been asked a lot. It’s also a question I had to ask myself very deeply in-order for me to take up the opportunity to buy the organization. When it comes right down to it. It’s all about making a difference and an impact in the lives of other women. I decided to buy the organization because I could see so much potential in it.

I could see the opportunity to help more people and expand it nationally as well as internationally. I found it to be a great support network and I wanted it to be more widely available and recognized as a serious organization for serious and ambitious entrepreneurs. It’s not all cappuccino mornings and pampering events.It’s about creating a non threatening environment for women to do business.  

What direction would you like to head with Forward Ladies, is there anything new and/or different you would do?

I would be leveraging technology and social media to help connect the members so they can do business with each other and also showcase their businessesto attract the opportunities they need to grow. To do this I’ll need to have a more targeted offering for the different women we serve. It’ll have to be more than a networking organization if it’s to achieve this.

What do you think are some of the key challenges facing the organisation? 

There are many challenges facing an organization like Forward Ladies. The networking landscape has changed in the 14 years since the organisation was formed. There is a lot more competition for networking so we need to work hard to stay relevant to our members. We need to raise our game on the quality of resources, networking and trainings we have to offer our members giving them a reason to keep coming back.

Memberships organizations are also notoriously difficult to grow particularly in a world where people do get a lot of things for free. So I’m under no illusions about the amount of work and change I’ll have to bring across the organisation both internally and externally in order to make it a viable and sustainable commercial proposition for its members. I’ll be working really hard tonot only attract but also retainbusy female professionals and entrepreneurs who I believe are the future of the organisation.

What is your focus for the following year, what do you hope to achieve? 

There is a lot of restructuring to be done internally so this year, my focus is really on investing in the systems that can deliver the vision I have for the business alongside building a stellar team to help me deliver that vision. I cannot do it all myself, I need the right people onboard to make the impact that I feel Forward Ladies can make across the UK and beyond. I’ll also be focusing on rewarding the loyal members who have been around right from the beginning and continue to lend their support. This first year is all about consolidating to build a strong foundation for growth next year.

What do you think are the benefits of women joining an organisation like Forward Ladies? 

An organization like forward Ladies can be wrongly regarded as ladies having coffee mornings but that is not what it is or what its about. Joining an organization like forward ladies will give you access to female role models and mentors, an opportunity to meet ladies outside your region and normal circles and to hear from inspirational and successful speakers. Forward Ladies is known to attract some of the best speakers out there. We also have peer support groups for members to network and support each other whilst sharing ideas and knowledge. Women only events are less threatening for some women and will provide an invaluable support for those needing to build up their confidence. Membership of Forward Ladies will also help any women to build a much needed peer support network across several organisations and industries. This is one benefit that our members tell us has had the more profound impact on their career and businesses. Forward Ladies is currently the only network providing access to both enterprising and corporate networks. I don’t see any other network with the track record that we have.

What would you say to someone who said that an organisation like Forward Ladies is too exclusionary? 

I invited a lady to one of our meetings recently and she said,“What would a nobody like me (pointing to her job title) want to do at a forward ladies event?” Those comments sadden me because that is who Forward Ladies is for! Forward Ladies is the most inclusive, diverse and welcoming network I’ve ever been part of and I’ve been to many in the past few years.  

I want to attract all women who believe in the values of inclusivity, diversity and women supporting each other. Its all about bring women together who want to progress on their ambitions. Our doors are open to any women who aspire to do better and to support other women do the same. All are welcome!

Mid Yorkshire Chamber of Commerce and solicitors Eaton Smith have awarded twenty University of Huddersfield students with funding to travel overseas for work experience. 

With donations placed in Trust by local philanthropists John Tinker and Edward Fisher in 1911, the Tinker Fisher Fund has been making awards to local students ever since, now in its 103rd year the Trust is still at work allowing ambitious students from Kirklees to travel abroad for research, work experience or study.

The awards, which were set up with the purpose of broadening educational horizons, attracted over 60 entries, which were judged on merit by an independent awarding panel representing the Chamber, the University of Huddersfield, Kirklees College and Eaton Smith Solicitors.

This] number of applications was almost double the number of submissions made in recent years and resulted in successful students being awarded a share of £9,500. 

Leah Black of the University of Huddersfield was awarded an additional £200 by the judging panel for the most outstanding application in 2014.

Executive director of the Chamber Andrew Choi commented: “It is a privilege for us to be part of this 103 year tradition which is a timely reminder, once again, of the important link between the  business community of Huddersfield and the development and aspiration of young people in the district. 

"We wish all the beneficiaries every success in their travels and hope they will bring back new perspectives and new skills as a result.”

Image source: dullhunk

A mix of top entrepreneurs, decision makers and politicians will descend on Manchester next month to debate the challenges posed by the North-South divide.

Downtown in Business is staging its Northern Revolution conference which takes place on the morning of Thursday July 3.

The event will feature author of ‘Red Tory’ and founder of Think Tank ResPublica Philip Blond; the founder of Enterprise Nation and co-founder of Start - Up Britain, Emma Jones; Shadow Energy Minister Jonny Reynolds MP; Yorkshire entrepreneur Ajaz Ahmed; Baroness Susan Williams and Sir Howard Bernstein.

Downtown chief executive Frank McKenna commented: “This conference ‘Bridging the Gap’ offers a forum to discuss and debate how we can genuinely begin to tackle the perennial problem of the North /South divide. 

“As an organisation, Downtown believes that there needs to be radical structural change to the way we are governed at a local and regional level, with the introduction of metro mayors for city regions and elected Governors for counties such as Lancashire.

“However it is not just about governance arrangements but a transfer of powers, finance and responsibilities from Westminster too. We need to see the North of England given the same type of devolution afforded to the mayor of London.“

The half day event will also focus on strategic issues such as transport, economic development and enterprise, and how the North can develop an infrastructure beyond HS2 that will make it more competitive – and ask how practical the establishment of a ‘super council of the North’ that includes Leeds, Manchester and Liverpool would be.

The Northern Revolution conference takes place on July 3 at Manchester Town Hall. For more information email roger.jonas@downtowninbusiness.com.

A former Super League player has left the sport behind to start-up and build his own business with support from the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency.

23-year old Elliot Hodgson lives in Halifax and was a full-back with the Huddersfield Giants before choosing to end his contract and take a pay out which allowed him to train in plumbing and heating.

In February last year, he started on the New Enterprise Allowance scheme which gives those out of work the opportunity to get support to start their own business.

Elliot worked with a business mentor to develop his plan for Hodgson Plumbing and Heating. He set up the firm with the Enterprise Agency’s support and said: “It was a bit slow in the first six months and I only had one or two days’ work but the New Enterprise Allowance I received really kept my business going and things are now really positive.

“I now have work every day and I’m booked up for a few months. I have even had to start sub-contracting odd bits of work because I’m too busy to do it myself.“

Andrew Choi, from the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency, said: “Elliot’s journey with the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency is a great example of the opportunity that that the New Enterprise Allowance gives to those looking to start their own business.

“Our mentors provide invaluable support to people like Elliot in helping them through what can be the difficult process of starting up and then growing a sustainable company.

“Elliot’s firm, Hodgson Plumbing and Heating, is already doing well and we will be backing him to have even greater success in the future.“

The woman behind a highly successful Ashington-based Onesie manufacturing firm is set to join a roster of speakers including retail figure Mary Portas - to talk about restoring fashion and textiles manufacturing in the UK.

Kate Dawson, the founder of The All-in-One Company, which has pioneered the onesie fashion phenomenon, will share her experiences with other manufacturers, retailers and buyers representing more than 1000 clothing brands.

Kate said: “It is going to be very exciting to engage with other clothing manufacturers who, like The All-in-One Company, believe it is time to back British talent.

“I feel really honoured to be invited to speak alongside so many distinguished people and tell them how our business has created a new fashion item – and that does not happen very often. 

"Also, how we have been able to continue to produce each one of our customers’ unique designs – even though we are manufacturing on a very large scale – through mass customisation.“ 

Kate will address the first-ever Meet the Manufacturer conference which takes place at The Old Truman Brewery in London on Wednesday June 11 and Thursday 12.

It has been organised by Kate Hills, the founder of Make it British - the campaign for British manufacturing. 

Having worked as a designer and buyer for over 20 years, she became increasingly frustrated with the dependence of British retailers on Far Eastern suppliers and believes that a UK manufacturing based is essential for companies to remain competitive.

Retail expert Mary Portas will open the conference and will be joined by more than 20 leading manufacturers, fashion brands and industry experts.

As well as Kate Dawson the line-up includes John Smedley, Roland Mouret, ASOS, Mulberry, Fashion Enter, Reshore UK and MAS, Joseph Cheaney & Sons, Gaddum & Gaddum, Albam Clothing, Globe-Trotter, Fashion Enter, The London Cloth Company, Tony Lutwyche, Grey Fox Blog, Creative Skillset, Eve Pollard Designs, Bridgwater College, Young British Designers, The Great British Banjo Company, Draw in Light, Holland & Sherry and Threads London.

They will offer advice and provide real-life experiences of building British brands, how to successfully manufacture in the UK and how to work with British factories.

There will also be a series of panel discussions asking: “What does Made in Britain actually mean?“, “Do customers really care where their clothes are made?’“ and ‘How do you compete with companies that are‘faking it British’ and making overseas?“

One and two-day conference tickets for the Meet the Manufacturer conference can be purchased at www.meetthemanufacturer.co.uk with day one targeted at bigger brands aiming to bring manufacturing back to the UK. Day two is focused on smaller companies looking to launch and build Great British brands, and work with UK factories. 

Further details, including the full line-up of speakers, agenda and tickets for one and both days of the conference, can be found at www.meetthemanufacturer.co.uk.

You can follow Meet the Manufacturer on Twitter https://twitter.com/MiBManufacturer and follow the hashtag #MiBMM

Partners and sponsors of Meet the Manufacturer, include Soabar, Truman’s Beer, The UKFT, The Design Trust, Just Style and Fashion Angel.

York Science Park has recently welcomed eight new businesses to its start-up space, Springboard, a space for early stage businesses whilst they become established.

Its latest residents include a market intelligence company, an aluminium import/export operation, an IT developer and a business offering unique music services for children.

Tracey Smith, managing director, York Science Park, commented: "We have certainly seen an increase in demand for our start-up space over recent months.

"It’s fascinating to see the wide range of products these new businesses are offering and developing and I am sure they will all benefit from being amongst like-minded entrepreneurs focused on growing their new businesses."

Accommodation is free for the first three months and then is on a sliding scale depending on the size of office taken.

About the businesses:

• NMJ Technologies is a technology innovation software company with experience in developing software for desktops, remote servers, the internet and a range of mobile devices. Currently it is engaged in projects focussed on addressing specific needs in emerging markets and in particular Sub-Saharan Africa. 
• Bumblebeats is a unique music program for babies, toddlers and early years and will be launching classes in and around the York area from July 2014. 
• Catalyst IT Solutions is an IT consultancy business advising on IT strategy, delivering and operating on promise and cloud-based IT solutions, primarily around CRM, business intelligence and enterprise desktop to corporate mid-market organisations. 
• Heron Import and Export Ltd is an agent for a Chinese aluminium company which provides aluminium extrusion profiles such as bars, angles and tubes.  
• Jack Russell Digital is a digital marketing consultancy, specialising in web marketing solutions for small to medium sized businesses.  Current clients include legal companies, bed and breakfast operators, tourist attractions and Radar Healthcare.
• Real Hub is a UK residential property research and data analytics company that specialises in providing consumer-focussed house market intelligence. 
• Stashmetrics build tools for social media analysis, specifically aimed at the needs of the PR and marketing industries. Through their PR partner, Wolfstar, they have already worked with some of the world’s biggest brands, and aim to commercialise their research prototypes over the next 18 months.
• Express Workforce Ltd provides temporary and permanent recruitment solutions for the construction, property and engineering sectors. 

The success of an event which brought together North East businesses and Sunderland schools has led to it being run again – even bigger and better than before.

Work Discovery Week- Sunderland took place last year for the first time, with more than 2000 young people and 40 top companies participating.

The mix of careers fairs, challenges, workshops and visits was hailed as such a trailblazing initiative that it was then held up nationally as an example of best practice.

And now the event is set to take place once again, running from June 30 to July 4.

A number of top businesses from around the region are sponsoring the event, which is also being supported by core partners Sunderland City Council, SAFC and North East Chamber of Commerce.

Headline sponsors include Nissan, catering giants 3663, Arriva, Gentoo, Sunderland University and Sunderland College with additional support from The Bridges, Accenture, Liebherr Works, Calsonic Kansei, Northumbrian Water, TRW and Grundfos.

The week is an initiative from Sunderland’s Economic Leadership Board – Business:Schools Task Group who recognised the need to forge stronger links between companies across the region and school pupils on Wearside.

Alongside the creation of Work Discovery Week a number of sector days are also planned throughout the year, giving pupils from across Sunderland the opportunity for unique insights into a wide variety of industries.

Work Discovery Week will include an opening event on June 30 with a “what not to wear” fashion show, careers fair and a range of demonstrations and workshops.

Other highlights throughout the week include a “tea challenge” where schools have been asked to devise an afternoon tea with the winning team taking over the city’s Marriott Hotel during the week.      This year the reach of WDW will be even wider than before, with the first day careers fair being extended to 16-18-year olds who can visit between 3pm to 5pm and with an evening session aimed at parents and carers.

Gary Hutchinson, commercial director of SAFC and co-chair of the task group, said: “Work Discovery Week-Sunderland was such a huge success last year and forged relationships which have continued on since then.

“The support from businesses across the region has been superb and we’ve achieved everything we set out to do and more.

“It’s very gratifying that this has worked so well that it is being held up in other areas as an example of how schools and businesses can work together.”

Cllr Harry Trueman, Deputy Leader Sunderland City Council, said: “Work Discovery Week has been held up as a blueprint  for a successful partnership between schools and business and after the huge success of last year it’s extremely rewarding to know that not only is it back for a second time but that even more companies are involved this time round.

“This initiative continues to go from strength to strength and is giving young people in Sunderland a real opportunity to build relationships and find out more about the world of work.”

A number of sponsorship packages are still available for the week, ranging from headline sponsors to exhibition stands at the careers fair being held on the first day.

Copies of the sponsorship pack are available by calling Sorted PR on 0191 265 6111 or emailing bernice@sortedpr.com.

The week will conclude at the Stadium of Light on Friday July 4 with presentations by the schools, in response to a problem solving challenge, to an audience of business representatives.

Businesses and schools are also being asked to follow the event on twitter @WDWSunderland.

Image source: Paulio!

A recruitment entrepreneur has taken his business independent, while investing in new premises as he aims to increase his turnover by 25%, with the support of Lloyds Bank.

North East Lincolnshire’s Tower Staff Construction provides the building industry with qualified members of staff for permanent and temporary assignments. 

Established in 2011 by managing director Gary McMullen, the firm now has more than 3,000 construction professionals on its database.

Gary originally worked as a crane operator until he was made redundant in 2010 and decided to open his own business. To do this, he approached established recruitment firms to see if he could invest and create a specialist construction wing within their organisations.

He succeeded and in 2012 had a turnover of £1.4 million whilst working with the support of another firm. With newly-secured contracts and a growing construction staff database, Gary decided to turn Tower Staff Construction into a standalone business in its own right in March.

To achieve this, he invested heavily in a new responsive database, which allows speedier searches for candidates and quicker response times. Gary also invested in new computer systems which enable all office staff to use one platform and sync information for ease.

Gary has already increased his members of staff by one since he has taken the business independent, in addition to the two that were already employed. To support this, he has invested in a new larger office in Dudley Street.

Following an increase in temporary staff placements, Gary approached Lloyds Bank for a £250k invoice discounting facility that enables him to free up cashflow without waiting on payment from clients.

Invoice discounting can help businesses that want quick access to cash tied up in their sales invoices. With this option companies can stay firmly in control of invoice and credit control processes.

As the construction industry continues to improve following the economic downturn, Gary now expects Tower Staff Construction’s turnover to increase by £350k in 2014 from £1.4 million last year.

Gary McMullen, managing director of Tower Staff Construction, said: “We established the business in a tough market, but we have seen consistent and solid growth since. Our aim is to continue to grow our turnover and the number of workers we are placing, whilst remaining committed to providing clients with a high standard of personal service.

“Since we pay temporary workers on a weekly basis, cash really is the lifeblood of our business. Without an invoice discounting line, we wouldn’t be able to pay our workers and continue to grow the business. It has taken pressure off of our cashflow, allowing us to invest in expanding the firm.“

Peter Bould, regional manager at Lloyds Bank Commercial Finance, said: “Gary has seen impressive growth and has established a solid reputation in a niche market. As the construction industry recovers, the firm will be able to take advantage of new projects and demand.

“The new invoice discounting facility will allow the firm to secure its long-term expansion plans. This kind of invoice finance can be particularly useful for recruitment agencies that rely on paying temporary workers on a weekly basis. We look forward to supporting Tower Staff Construction as it continues to grow and firmly establish itself as a leader in the market.“

A former Super League player has left the sport behind to start-up and build his own business with support from the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency.

23-year old Elliot Hodgson lives in Halifax and was a full-back with the Huddersfield Giants before choosing to end his contract and take a pay out which allowed him to train in plumbing and heating.

In February last year, he started on the New Enterprise Allowance scheme which gives those out of work the opportunity to get support to start their own business.

Elliot worked with a business mentor to develop his plan for Hodgson Plumbing and Heating. He set up the firm with the Enterprise Agency’s support and said: “It was a bit slow in the first six months and I only had one or two days’ work but the New Enterprise Allowance I received really kept my business going and things are now really positive.

“I now have work every day and I’m booked up for a few months. I have even had to start sub-contracting odd bits of work because I’m too busy to do it myself.”

Andrew Choi, from the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency, said: “Elliot’s journey with the West Yorkshire Enterprise Agency is a great example of the opportunity that that the New Enterprise Allowance gives to those looking to start their own business.

“Our mentors provide invaluable support to people like Elliot in helping them through what can be the difficult process of starting up and then growing a sustainable company.

“Elliot’s firm, Hodgson Plumbing and Heating, is already doing well and we will be backing him to have even greater success in the future.”

Several of the UK’s most high-profile businesswomen (and men) will speak at a one-day conference – Women Inspiring the Economy - as part of the International Festival for Business 2014 (IFB 2014).

The event, which takes place on Wednesday 18th June, will feature keynote speakers, panel sessions and interactive workshops, as well as targeted networking time.

It is aimed at women at all stages of  the career ladder across all industries, discussing how to get to the top and stay there as well as looking at the challenges and opportunities presented to women in business in the current economy.

Jenny Willott MP, Minister for Women & Equalities, DCMS will address the delegates during the conference.

Major shifts in recent decades mean that women are increasingly occupying very senior positions in business, and yet many businesses have been slow to catch up in the way they sell to them. A.T. Kearney who produced a report, ‘Rise of the female economy’, will debate this during the conference with key business leaders.

The conference will set the challenge for all those attending to answer the question ‘How are you going to play your part in inspiring the economy?”

Delegates will be asked to pledge two things they will do to grow the economy, by completing postcards which will then be posted back to them six weeks later as a reminder to put their pledges into practice.

Maggie O’Carroll, CEO of the Women’s Organisation, said “In the United States women’s businesses have been effectively supported starting and creating their own enterprises  and are now generating over $1.3 trillion in revenues and employing nearly 8 million people – UK plc really does need to support women entrepreneurs and the sky will really be the limit.”   

Sarah Wood, COO, Unruly and IFB Ambassador  "There are countless examples of female entrepreneurs running highly successful businesses - whether it’s Holly Tucker and Sophie Cornish founding NotOnTheHighStreet.com from their kitchen table or Julie Deane and her mother Freda Thomas starting the Cambridge Satchel Company as a way to cover school fees for the kids.

“As the UK economy moves up a gear, we’re seeing ambitious and creative business women playing a crucial part in the economic revival."

Lynne Parker, CEO and Founder Funny Women, said:“Today’s business environment is competitive and hard so we all need an edge to propel us to the next level of success.

“I hope that by sharing my story, peppered with a bit of humour of course, I can inspire a few more women to make a business out of their passion. I am proud to have been invited along to speak in a city with such a great entertainment heritage.” 

Entrepreneur and keynote speaker Lara Morgan said: “The women inspiring the economy day of events is a huge, not-to-be-missed opportunity for those interested in self-development, leadership, inspirational anecdotal value shared by a seemingly scary but remarkably approachable group for ladies.

“Learn how to set bold goals, to blag it like the boys and simply chose not to play by someone else’s rules - there is no such thing as a glass ceiling.

“Challenging, enjoyable, useful, applicable value will be shared in open discussion which when milked for all it’s worth, your investment in time will provide enormous return, treat yourself, turn up with a plan, promise to engage at every turn and set a target for making the most of valuable growth lessons.”

Brian Chapman, HR Business Partner, AkzoNobel, said “Having a Women 1st event at the International Festival for Business provides a great opportunity to share and showcase what different companies have done to progress diversity and inclusion in the workplace and to consider what questions this raises for our businesses in the future. “  

Sara Parker, Director, CBI, added:“Diversity is a critical element of business success so it is great that this conference is celebrating the contribution women make to the economy and giving others the confidence to fulfil their potential.”

 Headline speakers for this conference, organised by Women 1st, include:

•       Marion King, president UK & Ireland, Mastercard

•       Lara Morgan, CEO, Company Shortcuts, and former CEO,Pacific Direct

•       Lynne Franks, Women’s empowerment guru

•       Sarah Wood, COO, Unruly, IFB Ambassador

•       Melanie Richards, Partner, KPMG, member of UK Board

•       Andy Woodfield, Partner, PwC

•       Maggie O’Carroll, CEO, the Women’s Organisation

•       Sue O’Brien, CEO, Norman Broadbent & Women’s Business Council member

•       Dr Inna Baigozina-Goreli, Partner, AT Kearney

•       Carol Bagnald, Regional Director, HSBC

       Olivia Leonard, Facebook

•       Ros Rivaz, NED, Rexam, Chair, Remco

•       Brian Chapman, HR Business Partner, AkzoNobel

•       Paula Mackenzie, Chief Finance & Development Officer, KFC

•       Sara Parker, Chief Membership Director, CBI

•       Vanessa Vallely, Author, CEO We are the City

•       Lynne Parker, Founder, Funny Women

•       Dale Stafford, Founder, The Principle Department

•       Emma Stroud, Managing Director, Pitch Perfect Club

Simone Roche, curating the event is director of Women 1st is which supports women working in the tourism and visitor economy, said: “As the number of career opportunities grow for women in the UK, holding this event as part of IFB 2014 will present a fantastic chance to showcase the women and organisations that are leading the way for the next generation of female leaders.

“It’s going to be a busy, inspirational day packed with practical advice, and I look forward to hearing from successful women of different backgrounds.”

Max Steinberg, chair of IFB 2014, said: “You only need to look around the Liverpool City Region to see how women are inspiring economic growth across a range of sectors, so I’m delighted that Women 1st have chosen to hold this important conference at IFB 2014.

“They’ve brought together a really interesting panel of speakers, who between them have fantastic experience and insight.”

For more information on IFB 2014, and to register for the free Business Club, please visit www.ifb2014.com

A North East entrepreneur has opened a new Call Centre venture based in North Shields - in a bid to ‘reshore’ jobs lost to overseas contracts.

Andy Bowen has launched UK-PI and is using his E-Achieve training outfit to support its staff recruitment and employment training.

The two firms are exploring overseas opportunities and have already secured part of a £1 million contract to support businesses in the North East with workplace learning and upskilling the workforce.

Andy has turned to UKTI and its International Trade Adviser, Lissa Balmer, to help identify new markets. This has already resulted in relationship with a Lithuanian college to provide a youth programme.

Andy said: “For too long the UK contact centres have been known for only quality and not price and all too often services were moved overseas.

“Now, as more and more companies are looking for brand protection, quality and performance, our nationally accredited contact centre staff are repeatedly wowing customers whilst continually delivering a high level of service.

“We’re aiming to bring back jobs to the North East and have once again teamed up with UKTI to promote the benefits of UK-based services to the global market.”

Speaking after a tour of the new centre, where he met managers and staff, David Coppock, UKTI’s regional director for the North East, said: “E-Achieve and UK-PI are great examples of companies that have already recognised the value of internationalising their business.

"They are not only exporting their services but also bringing inward investment into the region.

“The new business has also been supported by Reshore UK, a new one-stop-shop service to help companies bring production back to the UK that is run by UKTI and the Manufacturing Advisory Service (MAS).

“I was delighted to be given the opportunity to meet Andy and his team to see how this new initiative is supporting local companies. I hope their experience will inspire others to join the global race and help in our efforts to ensure the North East plays a key part in achieving the Government’s target of UK exports reaching £1 trillion by 2020.”

An HR professional with over 15 years experience has used redundancy as an opportunity to set up her own business.

Jayne Hart used a redundancy package to set up the HR Dept South Tyneside, Newcastle and Gateshead - part of the HR Dept national franchise network.

The chartered member of the Institute of Personnel and Development has already secured a handful of clients across the region, including Paragon Rapid Technologies and Nationwide Heating and Cooling Ltd.

Now 43 year-old Jayne is hoping to establish herself as a recognised provider of outsourced HR to North East SMEs - and says she aims to match the success of other franchisees such as the Bristol HR Dept, which employs 15.

Jayne Hart, owner of the HR Dept South Tyneside, Newcastle, Gateshead said: “I have lived in the North East since a young child and have recently settled in the Lawe Top area of South Shields. The sight of the sea and beach never fails to make me feel very proud and lucky to live here and now to open my new business here.  

"Having developed my HR expertise over the last 15 years, the opportunity to take redundancy and really think about what I wanted to do came along.

“I considered many different career routes but kept coming back to what I enjoy and what people tell me I am good at and that’s human resources.  

"I consider myself to be very practical and approachable with a flair for seeking out sensible solutions and I love nothing more than rolling my sleeves up and getting stuck in!  I actually enjoy helping to resolve the many challenges that managing staff can present to employers.“

Jayne’s franchise agreement includes a fully insured advice line to deal with day-to-day personnel queries and tailored one-to-one advice on issues ranging from employment contracts and handbooks, HR policies and procedures, employment law advice to disciplinary and grievance issues.

The HR Dept operates 60 territories throughout the UK and Ireland.

Ten Yorkshire and Humber based businesses have been awarded prestigious Big Tick awards by Business in the Community (BITC) for their outstanding contributions to local communities.

Bettys & Taylors of Harrogate, Logistik, Pinsent Masons LLP, The Centre for Partnership, Keepmoat, Yorkshire Water, Interface, Morrison’s Supermarkets plc, Asda Stores Ltd and Drax Group plc impressed judges with their initiatives tackling a range of issues from building stronger communities, to inspiring young talent, education and sustainability.

The Big Tick is the first level of accolade in the annual Responsible Business Awards run by the charity BITC. Five of the regional companies are shortlisted to be named national winners in their categories.

Asda, Bettys & Taylors, Drax Group, Interface and Morrisons have since presented to a group of senior business peers in a bid to be named overall winner in their category. National winners will receive their awards at a ceremony in London on July 8, in the presence of HRH The Prince of Wales, President of the charity.

Steven Butts, head of Corporate Responsibility at Morrisons, said: “Our specialist agriculture team work direct with farmers and suppliers across the country to address critical sustainability issues.

"Through collaboration and efficiency gains we help to keep the quality fresh British products our customers want to buy affordable. The Business in the Community Big Tick is a fantastic endorsement for the work of our team and the Morrisons Farming Programme.“

Liz Needleman, area director England East, Business in the Community said: “All year round, responsible businesses across the UK are contributing towards building more resilient communities, stimulating local economies, creating diverse, skilled and healthy workforces and addressing skills shortages - yet these activities rarely get attention.

“It’s never been more important for businesses to demonstrate the tremendous economic value, environmental and social impact they make across communities.“

The 10 companies will be presented with their Big Tick trophies at the Yorkshire and Humber Responsible Business Awards Gala Dinner on 18 June at the Cedar Court Hotel, Bradford. 

Image source: Keoni Cabral

Budding entrepreneurs who have always dreamt of being their own boss are being invited to Sheffield’s first ever franchise conference.

Organised by Lincoln-based gti consultancy, which has over 15 years’ experience working with both franchisors and franchisees, the event at Kenwood Hall on June 12 will feature talks on PR and marketing, finance, intellectual property rights and the law.

There will also be a Q&A session with people who have successfully expanded their business through franchising and those who have started their own business by buying a franchise.

Julie Taylor from gti consultancy said it’s the only event of its kind outside of London. She said: “If you want to find out about franchising you would normally have to go to the annual Franchise Show so we wanted to offer people the opportunity to access expert advice on their own doorstep.

“Buying a franchise is a great way of starting your own business as it provides the security of a proven concept with an established brand name and ongoing support.

“We have an excellent line-up of speakers covering all aspects of franchising including keynote speaker Eric Ho owner and founder of the YoYo Group who will be sharing the secrets of his success.“

Eric, whose business portfolio spans from the fastest growing noodle bar fanchise in the UK, Yo Yo Noodle, to the country’s largest tyre and steel recycling plant, UK Steel, added: “I’m delighted to be have this opportunity to help other people on the road to success.

“One of my passions is motivational speaking and I love being able to inspire people to take action and achieve their dreams.“

During the conference delegates will also have the opportunity to network with other like-minded people and find out more about gti consultancy’s Franchise Development Programme.

Aimed at supporting budding franchisors through the process of designing and developing their business from the initial stages through to launching it into the marketplace, the programme consists of a series of workshops and one-to-one support.

The Franchise Conference Sheffield is sponsored by NatWest, Knowles Warwick, Taylor Bracewell LLP and Loven Patents & Trademarks and is just one of a series of conferences gti consultancy is holding across Yorkshire and the East Midlands.

The conference on 12th June at Kenwood Hall on Kenwood Road starts at 9.30am and closes at 6pm. Tickets cost £37.50 plus VAT and include a buffet lunch. To find out more please visit www.franchiseconf.co.uk

Image source: m01229

There is one week left for businesses  to support the York Apprenticeship Challenge which aims to get 100 pledges to recruit an apprentice in 100 days.

The campaign, led by City of York Council and training providers , already achieved its target in just 71 days but is looking for more Apprenticeship vacancies to be created across the city.

The challenge, which has currently received 135 pledges, is looking to get as many pledges as possible in the final days and there is still time for businesses who would like to recruit an apprentice to get involved.

86 Businesses have already pledged in the campaign, including Dunnington Sports Club, Lavender Black, Strawberries & Cream Beauty Salon and Priory  Medical Group.

Cllr James Alexander, Labour leader of City of York Council said: “It is pleasing to see that so many businesses have already supported the campaign and sought to create opportunities for young people across the city.

"One of the key priorities of the council is securing jobs and growth and I am grateful to all the businesses who have supported the campaign. It is hoped that such vacancies across the city in a variety of sectors will help to keep young talent in York and offer them opportunities.“

It is hoped that the challenge will open up job opportunities for young people in time for them to start their career in the summer.

Some of the companies who have pledged to create Apprenticeships as well as many other businesses will be present at an Apprenticeship recruitment event on Tuesday 1 July to showcase their vacancies. The free event, which is hosted by City of York Council, will take place at the Hilton Hotel from  4.30pm to 7.30pm and will also see training providers and Connexions advisers on hand to offer advice on Apprenticeships.

The York Apprenticeship Challenge is running until 10 June and hopes to raise awareness of both the business and personal benefits of Apprenticeships.

Local businesses wanting to hire an apprentice or find out more can email york.apprenticeships@york.gov.uk or telephone  Jo Burgess at the council’s York Apprenticeship Hub on (01904) 552200.

The jobs market is set for a boost after a South Tyneside company was given a cash injection to allow it to expand.

Newlife Cleaning Systems, based in Beach Road, South Shields, has been in business for more than 30 years and offers a wide range of cleaning services, including office, industrial, medical and clinical.

However, the organisation was recently awarded a £4,000 grant from European regional development fund’s Investment for Growth money pot, which has allowed it to grow the company through the help of numerous local businesses.

The growth will soon create 30 new jobs, which are to be advertised.

Using the funding, which North East businesses can apply for, Newlife enlisted the help of Gradient Digital, Allinsons Photography and JAM Marketing to create a new website.

Since its launch in April, it has enabled the business to expand.

It is estimated that more than £140,000 in sales increases will be gained as a result of this grant, as well as safeguarding the existing jobs in the company.

Shaun Causer, Newlife’s marketing director, said he was delighted with the news, which will see the region’s economy given a boost as the UK emerges from the recession.

He said: “The Investment for Growth funding has helped us to move forward, and to expand our organisation.

“The creation of jobs is an added bonus for the jobseekers of the North East.“

He says the expansion of Newlife will also see the benefits extend to their clients.

He added: “The new recruits and new website will enable us to be even more efficient and to meet the needs of more clients.

“I’m looking forward to the future”

Vistaprint.co.uk, the UK’s leading provider of marketing products and services for small businesses, is bringing the ‘Vistaprint Night School’ to Winchester on Wednesday 11th June, with a special mentoring event dedicated to supporting business owners. The event comes following recent research conducted in partnership with PopUp Britain, which revealed that 93 per cent of small business owners would benefit from free marketing advice and 68 per cent would like access to experts.    

As an ambassador for the Vistaprint Night School initiative, one of the country’s leading entrepreneurs, Jo Fairley, Co-Founder of organic chocolate empire Green & Black’s, will speak at the event, which is taking place at Winchester Guildhall. Jo, who is also an award-winning author and journalist and has built her business into a global brand now approaching £100 million, will share her insights into ‘What makes a successful entrepreneur?’

Jo Fairley comments, “I have always been inspired by other business people and am pleased to be able to offer my support to the Vistaprint Night School initiative, which is dedicated to helping our small businesses in the UK. I know how it feels to start and grow your own business and hope sharing my experiences will be beneficial for the guests.”    

The free, registration-only event is open to small businesses in the local area and aims to provide practical advice through expert talks, one-to-one sessions and networking. Vistaprint.co.uk is partnering with Winchester BID to bring this special evening to Hampshire following similar events in Dunstable and Ashford in late 2013. With more than a third of small businesses (38 per cent) saying they find the lack of support network a major disadvantage to owning their own business and nearly three quarters (74 per cent) admitting they feel alone in their working life, the event will offer the opportunity for local entrepreneurs to meet experts and other local business owners. 

There will also be short talks from Winchester BID (Business Improvement District), PopUp Britain - part of The Association of Town & City Management (ATCM) – and Andrew Miller, Head of UK Marketing at Vistaprint, who will share some useful hints and tips into small business marketing and business communication. Following the talks, attendees will be offered one-to-one sessions with each of the guest speakers and the chance to network with like-minded business owners.  

Vistaprint has supported small businesses for nearly 20 years through its wide range of products that make it simple and cost effective for companies to market themselves through business cards, flyers, leaflets and more. The ‘Vistaprint Night School’ events began in 2013 and sit alongside other initiatives to support small businesses including product grants, mentoring sessions and a new dedicated blog www.mybizhub.co.uk.     

Steve O’Brien, Global PR Director at Vistaprint, comments, “The Vistaprint Night School initiative was launched to provide small business owners with access to experts and inspiration as well as practical advice and we’re delighted to be able to bring the concept to the businesses of Winchester. Having Jo Fairley on board is a real coup, with her vast experience and insight into the world of entrepreneurship. We’re sure she will inspire those who attend, along with our other guest speakers.”        

Chris Turner, Executive Director, Winchester BID, comments, “We’re pleased to be partnering with Vistaprint to help bring this special evening to Winchester. We strive to help local small businesses and this event will be a valuable and worthwhile few hours for any business owners or would-be entrepreneurs in the area.”     

Becky Jones, PopUp Britain, comments, “We’re delighted to be involved with the Vistaprint Night School initiative for a second year. We are passionate about supporting and promoting small businesses across the country and this type of event provides access to valuable resources and advice.”    

The Vistaprint Night School event takes place on Wednesday 11th June 2014 from 18:00 – 21:00 at King Charles Hall, Guildhall Winchester, The Broadway, Winchester, Hampshire, SO23 9GH. Small business owners wishing to register for this free event can email vistaprintnightschool@iris-worldwide.com with a name and contact details.

Additional event information and updates can be found at:

www.facebook.com/VistaprintUK and

www.mybizhub.co.uk

Image source: ell brown

Wm Morrison Supermarkets PLC has announced that chairman Sir Ian Gibson has informed the board that he will not be seeking re-election at next year’s AGM.

The board will conduct "an orderly process" to appoint a successor. 

In May, Yorkshire-based Morrisons announced it was cutting prices on more than 1,000 products after profits continue to plummet along with other mid-market supermarkets such as Tesco. 

Sir Ian said: "This term will take me into my eighth year on Wm Morrisons Board, and this announcement gives the Board time to conduct an orderly search for a new Chairman and ensure a smooth transition."

According to reports, Morrisons AGM was difficult as both chairman Sir Ian Gibson and boss Dalton Philips apologised to shareholders for a dreadful year.

A start-up business that was set-up on the back of the horse meat scandal has scooped a national award coveted by the supermarkets, to prove that when it comes to meat and livestock the North East really is ‘top of the chops’

The Great British Meat Company has been named as best website business at the Meat Management Awards. Held at the New Connaught Rooms, London the award was presented to the company by England World Cup winning legend Sir Geoff Hurst.

The high-growth Gateshead based online butcher was set-up in 2013 to provide fully traceable assured British meat direct to customers who want the quality of a proper butcher and the convenience of online delivery.

Feeding on public perception of supermarket meat following last years horse meat saga the business is growing at a rate of 30% month on month, and was recognised winning the award for it’s outstanding customer service and dedication to quality dry-aged British meat.

It is a coup for the business which was founded by Freeman Catering Butchers in partnership with their long-term friend and marketing expert Sam Wass.

The company sources the majority of it’s meat from farms and abattoirs in the North East and they are extremely proud of the regions fine farming heritage.

Daniel Freeman, co-founder said: “We’re fortunate to be surrounded by some of the best farm lands in Britain if not the world”. “As one Northumberland farmer mentioned to me recently, it is the natural nutrients from the limestone landscape that give the meat a natural flavour, that no where else can match. 

“To have supply like that on our doorstep gives us a huge advantage over our competitors, who tend to be marketing companies, that know how to sell, but don’t know a great deal about meat."

The Meat Management Awards are one the most prestigious awards in the food calendar, with supermarkets such as ASDA and Waitrose featuring their award wins extensively in TV advertising campaigns.

Speaking about the award, Daniel Freeman, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised as Best Meat Website Business. We have worked really hard to create a website and a business that put customers first, and this award justifies our belief that customers want to support British farms and buy British meat."

“The irony of winning an award that is associated so extensively with large supermarket brands isn’t lost on us, but ultimately it is very flattering. While we won’t be able to compete with them on a TV ad campaign, we are very confident we can compete where our customers want it most, providing great meat at affordable prices."

A start-up business that was set-up on the back of the horse meat scandal has scooped a national award coveted by the supermarkets, to prove that when it comes to meat and livestock the North East really is ‘top of the chops’

The Great British Meat Company has been named as best website business at the Meat Management Awards. Held at the New Connaught Rooms, London the award was presented to the company by England World Cup winning legend Sir Geoff Hurst.

The high-growth Gateshead based online butcher was set-up in 2013 to provide fully traceable assured British meat direct to customers who want the quality of a proper butcher and the convenience of online delivery.

Feeding on public perception of supermarket meat following last years horse meat saga the business is growing at a rate of 30% month on month, and was recognised winning the award for it’s outstanding customer service and dedication to quality dry-aged British meat.

It is a coup for the business which was founded by Freeman Catering Butchers in partnership with their long-term friend and marketing expert Sam Wass.

The company sources the majority of it’s meat from farms and abattoirs in the North East and they are extremely proud of the regions fine farming heritage.

Daniel Freeman, co-founder said: “We’re fortunate to be surrounded by some of the best farm lands in Britain if not the world”. “As one Northumberland farmer mentioned to me recently, it is the natural nutrients from the limestone landscape that give the meat a natural flavour, that no where else can match. 

“To have supply like that on our doorstep gives us a huge advantage over our competitors, who tend to be marketing companies, that know how to sell, but don’t know a great deal about meat."

The Meat Management Awards are one the most prestigious awards in the food calendar, with supermarkets such as ASDA and Waitrose featuring their award wins extensively in TV advertising campaigns.

Speaking about the award, Daniel Freeman, said: “We are delighted to have been recognised as Best Meat Website Business. We have worked really hard to create a website and a business that put customers first, and this award justifies our belief that customers want to support British farms and buy British meat."

“The irony of winning an award that is associated so extensively with large supermarket brands isn’t lost on us, but ultimately it is very flattering. While we won’t be able to compete with them on a TV ad campaign, we are very confident we can compete where our customers want it most, providing great meat at affordable prices."