Trainees at a Cheshire-headquartered professional services group will get a taste of TV shows The Apprentice and Dragons’ Den thanks to a National Apprenticeship Week challenge.

More than 25 apprentices at Optionis in Warrington will be split into teams and tasked with creating a presentation or marketing campaign to encourage young people to consider an apprenticeship.

The various pitches will be judged by a three-strong panel comprising Warrington South MP David Mowat, Warrington & Co managing director Steve Park and Optionis chief executive Rob Crossland.

A prize will also be presented to the winner of the company’s inaugural ‘Apprentice of the Year’ award, with submissions being assessed by Optionis senior managers. 

The judging panel and presentation will take place at the company’s premises on Centre Park in Warrington on Friday, 7th March – the last day of National Apprenticeship Week 2014.

Mr Crossland said:  “As a group we have invested heavily in our apprenticeship programme, and we now have trainees playing key roles throughout most business units and departments. I for one have been extremely impressed by the talent, dedication and work ethic I have witnessed.

“National Apprenticeship Week is the perfect occasion to recognise and celebrate the vital contribution made by our trainees. I’m looking forward to seeing the ideas they come up with.”

Optionis employs around 250 staff across sites in Warrington, Greater Manchester, London, Poole and Dorchester. That number is expected to reach 350 by March 2016.

The group is home to employment services provider Parasol, small business and contractor support specialist ClearSky and cloud-based sales performance management software Silverline.

Optionis trainees work towards recognised academic qualifications during their first 12 months with the group, with the opportunity to secure permanent contracts once they complete their apprenticeship.

The company works closely with Warrington Collegiate and other training providers in the area to create tailored study programmes for its apprentices. 

Adam Swift, 18, a marketing apprentice at Optionis, said: “For me, being able to earn money at the same time as getting experience in a busy marketing department is brilliant.   

Everyone here is really friendly and I have been given some interesting projects to get my teeth into. Some of my friends have gone to university, but for me it’s good to get used to the routine of a working week, and get that experience under my belt.

“Hopefully I will be able to get a permanent job here once I’ve completed my apprenticeship.”

To register interest in the Optionis apprenticeship scheme, email recruitment@optionis.co.uk with your CV, area of interest and a covering letter explaining your reasons for wanting to become an Optionis apprentice. 

A new project has been launched with the aim of helping small businesses in the Leeds City Region invest in developing the skills of their workforce.   

The first of its kind in the region to be driven by the Leeds Local Enterprise Partnership skills priorities, the project, led by Leeds City College, is offering free support to small and medium enterprises and microbusinesses to help them enhance employees’ skills and develop their career prospects while driving up productivity.

The scheme is backed by the Leeds City Region Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) and benefits from more than £10m of funding from the European Union and UK government, which is being made available through the Skills Funding Agency to finance training for people in employment.

Tom Keeney, regional director for Yorkshire and Humber for BT, who chairs the projects strategic group said:  “99.5 per cent of businesses in the Leeds City Region employ less than 250 people - they are the engine of our economy.”

“Improving their employees’ skills will improve their businesses, create jobs and deliver growth and I urge every small business to get involved.”                    

Providing free support is one of the key benefits of the project which means employers can enjoy the benefits of trained staff without having to invest their own funds.

The project focusses on providing training to employees who are 19+ in SMEs and microbusinesses in a range of priority skill sectors including business & financial services, care, digital technology, education, health, life sciences logistics, low carbon industries manufacturing and retail.

A large network of specialist providers is on hand to deliver accredited training at Level 2 and Level 3, and for microbusinesses with up to 49 employees training can also be delivered to Level 4.

Along with accredited training, employers can benefit from expert advice and support including mentoring and coaching, succession planning, motivational workshops and employability skills development.

The project also offers the opportunity to develop new training and resources which meets the exact emerging business needs of employers across the region. Through the Local Response Fund, the project can work with employers to research & design bespoke support packages.

Project Manager at Leeds City College Jennie Beaumont said: “The College is delighted to be involved in taking an active role in supporting the continued growth of the Leeds City Region economy. We ask that companies who have a training or development need come forward and take advantage of this wonderful offer.”

Project Partnership Manager, Nat Lindo added “We are aware that only a third of Small and Medium Enterprises in the Leeds City Region access training and this is a real opportunity for more companies to come on board and take advantage of free training and address current skills gaps.”

To find out more about the Response Project, eligibility and how to access support please contact 0113 216 2064 or visit www.theresponse.co.uk

Regional PR and marketing entrepreneur Graham Robb has been appointed chairman of the Institute of Directors North East.

The owner of Recognition Marketing and PR, succeeds Alastair Thomson, Dean of the Business School at Teesside University, who has completed his four-year term as chairman.

Mr Robb has served on the board of the IoD North East for several years and is on the board of the Entrepreneurs’ Forum.

A regular newspaper columnist, he founded his company in 1990 following extensive media experience with the BBC and commercial radio.

He since has overseen the growth of his business, which today employs 14 staff and has a portfolio of more than 70 clients, employing more than 40,000 people, and based throughout the UK. 

This year, Mr Robb has invested in excess of £300k in moving into new offices at Pioneer Court, Morton Palms Business Park, in Darlington.

During the years, Mr Robb has been involved in top level projects featuring leading national figures in the world of industry, sport, entertainment and politics.

He said: “I am passionate about the North East and being involved in projects that help promote and drive the economic wellbeing of the region forward.

“Running my own company for nearly 25 years has given me real insight into the needs of business and I look forward to using this experience for the benefit of the IoD North East and its members.

“Part of my new role will be representing local businesses at regional and national level and helping encourage the powers-that-be to create the environment needed for North East companies to grow and develop.”

Mr Thomson said: “I have greatly enjoyed my time at the helm of the IoD North East and will continue to support its work in the region.

“I wish Graham well as the new chairman. Through his company he has acquired an in-depth knowledge of a wide range of sectors, which will prove invaluable to the IoD North East and its membership."

A project run from a shop front in Newcastle’s Newgate Shopping Centre is helping to tackle youth unemployment in the city.

The ‘Space 2…’ project, a youth centre run by the YMCA and financed by NE1, is investing in the ‘World of Work Programme’ - a scheme devliered in conjunction with many of the city’s businesses and local community interest company, Solar Learning.

The programme aims to provide youngsters with an insight into different sectors, including retail, law, medicine, manufacturing and engineering. 

Major North East employer Greggs plc recently launched the first session where Retail director Raymond Reynolds gave participants an insight into the world of food manufacturing.

It marks the start of a relationship between Space 2… and Greggs, who will go on to provide employability workshops that cover CV writing, interview training and confidence building skills.

Adrian Waddell, director of Operations at NE1 Ltd explained: “Space 2… was set up to improve opportunities for young people. The World of Work programme is one key strand of activity at the centre and the idea is to work closely with some of the city’s leading employers to introduce young people to various jobs and industry sectors and for businesses to highlight the skills, experience and attitude young people need to secure jobs within these fields.“

Jeff Hurst, YMCA Newcastle and manager of Space 2…. added: “Space 2… is driven by the need to give young people information, advice and greater opportunities to allow them to make better and more informed choices. 

"At Newcastle YMCA we believe that all young people are capable of achieving great things, to do so they need 3 things; the opportunity, the resources and the support.  Working in partnership with NE1 and the business community we are able to provide that combination. 

"The World of Work events will provide practical help and exposure for these young people to some of the city’s largest employers and hopefully improve their employment opportunities. The sessions are free to attend and will be run alongside all the other exciting programmes happening at the centre.“

Regional law firm Muckle will offer their insight into the law sector on February 25. For more information on the World of Work programme, and upcoming events, visit the website here.

Image source: liam_swinney

Hundreds of businesses are set to Illuminate Sunderland’s Stadium of Light at an enterprising event to get more city firms to work together.

Illuminate Sunderland will run at the Stadium of Light on March 5th from 9am to 4pm with exhibition space for 70 local businesses.

A similar event at the Stadium of Light last year attracted more than 500 business men and women from across the city and wider region who took the opportunity to promote themselves to new customers and celebrate what the city has to offer.

The Sunderland showcase is a spin off from the successful regional event North East Expo which attracts thousands of businesses to Kingston Park, home of Newcastle Falcons rugby team.

Exposure Events, which runs a number of business events across the UK, was approached by several businesses who all backed a Sunderland business event of this kind.

Event organiser Lorraine Gordon said: “It was the local businesses who came to us with the idea insisting there was a demand for an event of this kind in Sunderland.

“They were right as the last event was a great success and facilities at the Stadium of Light proved to be ideal for a large scale business event.

“Visitors can book free tickets online and are invited to bring friends, colleagues and business associates along for a great day. Parking is free and guests can attend as many seminars and as they like.“

Businesses already booked in to exhibit include SAFC, Sun FM, University of Sunderland,  Learn Direct, Natwest, O2, Lancaster Toyota and the Apartment Group

Illuminate Sunderland is free to attend and as well as businesses promoting their services, visitors can enjoy a series of talks and seminars throughout the day.

For more information visit www.illuminateshow.co.uk To enquire about booking an exhibition space or contact Exposure Events on hello@exposure-events.com

The success of Illuminate Sunderland echoes the findings of national think tank Centre for Cities which said in its latest report that the city is shaking off the worst effects of the recession, at a time when many other cities are suffering badly. The report claims that Sunderland felt the recession most keenly in 2008-09 and is now on the road to recovery.

According to a report by UK-based Dupont more start-up businesses are launching in Sunderland than ever before with a 332 new companies forming in the first half of 2013.

Image source: H_Elise

The Federation of Small Businesses (FSB) in South Yorkshire has "great concern" for the issues surrounding youth unemployment and is collaborating with colleges in Barnsley and Doncaster. 

 In the UK 920,000 young people aged 16-24 are unemployed, representing 20% of young people. 

The FSB is collaborating with the colleges in two events to encourage local businesses to rise to the challenge of providing apprenticeships and improving enterprise skills. 

As well as colleges, other collaborators in the project include the local councils in Barnsley and Doncaster, Young Enterprise and various private sector training organisations.

The FSB Regional Chairman, Gordon Millward, commented: “The political emphasis on maximizing the numbers of young people entering universities has clearly failed. 

"We hope to encourage small businesses to recognise their responsibilities towards developing a workforce of the future and do their utmost to provide jobs and training placements for the next generation.

“We are staging these events to strengthen the bridge between business and education and we urge businesses to come along and explore how they can play their part in addressing the future workforce skills challenge.

"If one-in-four SMEs in the UK took on an additional apprentice, the youth unemployment issue would disappear overnight. Long-term economic regeneration can only be nailed down by engaging with young people and providing the prospect of a secure and prosperous future – a prospect which former policies have demonstrably failed to provide.“ 

The events take place at 5:30 - 8:00pm on Thursday 6th March at Barnsley College and 5:30 - 8:00pm on Tuesday 1st April at Doncaster College. They are open to all businesses of any size and are free to attend. To book, ring the FSB regional office on 0114 261 7132 or email ro.southandeastyorks@fsb.org.uk.

SMEs in Cleveland and Redcar could win £4k of exporting help from experts at UKTI through a new competition.

The Get Set to Export competition aims to encourage businesses to reach new markets, and is linked to UKTI’s Passport to Export programme.

Teesside firm Guardian Marine Testing (GMT), recently named North East Exporter of The Year, is getting behind the initiative.

Managing director Andrew Shaw said that he would encourage companies to grasp opportunities like this, as competitions have been an important part of growing the GMT business.He explained: “Winning our very first award, the Best New Business Award, was a tremendous boost for morale and confidence.

“It gave us a validation that we were doing the right things and that others more experienced than us were giving GMT a superb vote of confidence.“

The competition is open to all small to medium sized enterprises (SMEs), which have an active Redcar and Cleveland Borough Council trading address and pay business rates to the council.Wilton Centre site director, Steve Duffield commented: “This is a fantastic opportunity to grow a business and we are proud to be able to sponsor it.“The guidance and expertise on offer from UKTI has proved invaluable to many of our tenants and we are firmly behind any initiative that will help drive business success in this region.“Mark Hannon, the council’s cabinet member for economic development said: “We want to encourage and support our local businesses to explore international opportunities.“The competition will provide the winners with the assistance needed to break into new markets across the globe, bringing new money into our local economy and creating new jobs for local residents.“

Winners will be registered onto the Passport to Export Programme and receive expert business advice from a local international Trade Adviser.  

They will also receive support through UKTI’s overseas teams, access to an Export Communications Review and grants for visiting the overseas market.

Entrants need to complete an online application form describing their export idea in no more than 200 words.  The shortlisted applicants will then present their ideas to a panel of experts in mid March 2014 who will select the winners.

Further details and application forms are available from enquiries@uktinortheast.org.uk or via 08450 505 054.  The deadline for submission is February 28 2014.

Two North East professionals have been appointed to senior roles within the Chartered Institute of Public Relations (CIPR), the national body for public relations professionals.

Stephen Waddington from Holystone near Rothbury, Northumberland has been named President for 2014, the most senior elected office in the Institute, whilst Sarah Hall from Whitley Bay has been re-appointed to the CIPR Board and as chair of the Professional Practices Committee.

Stephen said: “The public relations business faces a challenge in shifting from a craft to a profession with all the rigour drive that entails. Our role is to help accelerate that change.”   Sarah added: “The CIPR is a national membership organisation. We’re firmly focused in 2014 on moving the organisation out of London and into the regions to better serve members."

National planning and economic consultancy Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners (NLP) has appointed Michael Hepburn as director in its Newcastle office.

Michael has been with NLP since 2004 and has led its six-strong national housing team since 2010. It is engaged in a variety of residential and commercial projects throughout the North East and Yorkshire.

Expanding North East chartered surveyors firm Bradley Hall has strengthened its senior team with the appointment of two new associate directors.

Experienced chartered surveyor Richard Rafique joins the Grey Street office team, while chartered surveyor Amanda Burbridge joins Bradley Hall’s growing residential sales team in Gosforth. Both are members of the Royal Institution of Chartered Surveyors.

Director Neil Hart said: “We’re seeing a real surge in property enquiries and transactions. These senior appointments reflect the confidence in the regional market but also the commitment for growth within Bradley Hall."

Newcastle-based PR and marketing agency Karol Marketing Group has appointed a new PR executive, Jade English. 

A Public Relations graduate from the University of Sunderland, Jade brings a wide range of agency and in-house expertise to the agency, as well as extensive experience in event management, where she specialised in the education sector.

Jade, from Seaburn, said: “I’m very happy to be joining such a creative and forward-thinking team, who are renowned for their award-winning PR and marketing campaigns, and to be working with Karol’s diverse range of prestigious regional, national and international clients. It’s a fantastic opportunity for me."

Insolvency expert Allan Kelly has taken over as the new chair of the North East arm of insolvency trade body R3.

Allan, who is a partner of regional accountancy firm Tait Walker and head of its Turnaround & Insolvency team, will serve a two-year term in the post, and is now responsible for leading R3 campaigns which highlight the benefits of accessing services provided by insolvency practitioners across the region.

He takes over the role from Steve Ross, who is a partner in the restructuring team at the Sunderland office of Baker Tilly Business Services Limited.

L-R: James Fascia and Jacqui Banks 

The North East Business and Innovation Centre (BIC) has strengthened its team for 2014 with the appointment of two new members of staff.

Jacqui Banks joins as HR Officer and will also be acting as PA to the Centre’s directors, whilst 18-year-old James Fascia, from Whitley bay, has secured a role as business administrator.

The BIC’s chief executive, Paul McEldon added: “It is always nice to begin a new year by welcoming more colleagues onboard. 

“I wish both Jacqui and James the very best in helping to maintain the BIC’s excellent reputation in the business community, in what looks to be a very busy 12 months."

Calibre’s new starters Karly Appleby (first left; right window) and John Burnikell (second left; right window)) with Sam Thompson and Shaun Phillips (also right window) with Paul Nelson, Marcus Watson, Steve Nelson, Karen Nelson (all in left window).

Newcastle ICT firm Calibre Secured Networks Ltd has made several appointments to support expansion in 2014.

The firm has brought in John Burnikell to provide server platformexpertise while Karly Appleby secures her first full time job, working in administration and accounts as she undergoes full auditor training.

Calibre managing director Karen Nelson said: “The future is exciting for us and we are busier now than ever before. We are going for growth, so I’m delighted to welcome John and Karly who will be a huge asset to both the management team and our customers in 2014.

“Over the next 12 months we will look to support the existing talent within the team while continuing to encourage and nurture a new generation of young, highly skilled people within the firm and the wider industry.”

Image source: Victor1558

Langleys Solicitors, Tamsin Cooper, Ian Torkington, Wendy Forrester

Tamsin Cooper takes up a new role as director of risk and compliance, responsible for strengthening risk and compliance with professional and legal requirements within the practice. Tamsin previously worked for Drydensfairfax Solicitors across their Leeds and Bradford offices.

Ian Torkington joins as a senior finance executive and specialises in financial planning and strategy. He too worked at Drydensfairfax.

Wendy Forrester is working as a consultant at Langleys focussing on learning and development and ensuring it is firmly embedded as part of the company’s strategic plans to grow and develop the practice.

Langleys’ managing partner David Thompson said: “All three appointments are important additions to the business, bringing as they do a wealth of experience and knowledge in their individual specialisms. They will prove key in supporting the operations of the business and the delivery of our strategic plans.”

Sheffield Forgemasters, Kate Winder, Nathan Jordon

Kate Winder and Nathan Jordan will help implement, integrate and sustain the Continuous Improvement culture using Lean tools and techniques within the 21st Century Supply Chains (SC21) framework.

They will be working with all 800 employees at all levels across the engineering giant changing everything from the way documents are managed through to how they approach manufacturing processes.

Kate said: "We are both looking forward to our new roles and the challenges they will bring. We will be assisting with all aspects of improvement activities including planning, management, communication and progress meetings through the adoption of lean and engagement in SC21."

Nathan added: "There are widely recognised benefits of using these working methods and the long term commitment to this strategy by Forgemasters means exciting opportunities for further change and progress within the company.

"Our roles will allow us to develop an excellent overview and understanding of the whole of SFIL’s operations and business activities."

Lean consultant Andy Nicholson, of Nicholson Consultancy, who is working with Forgemasters on the improvement systems, added: "The overall objective is to help SFIL deliver better customer service, to increase profitability and to engage employees in improvement activities."

Grant Thornton, Mike Crawley, senior manager

Mike joins from BDO where he was tax director following the merger with PKF.  Based at Grant Thornton’s Leeds office, he will bring his many years of experience to the firm’s Yorkshire tax team.

“Mike is well-known as a specialist in his field having enjoyed a long and impressive career providing tax advice to dynamic, entrepreneurial businesses,” comments Neil Sengupta, tax partner at Grant Thornton in Leeds. 

“His knowledge and skills will complement our team here, and we will also be able to benefit from Mike’s experience of building and managing service teams, using his skills to mentor emerging talent at Grant Thornton.”

Mike comments:  “I have known many of the Grant Thornton tax team for a number of years and have been impressed by their professionalism, breadth of technical knowledge and innovative planning ideas and also by the strong working relationships they establish.

“The firm is acknowledged, certainly locally, as the market leader in the private entrepreneurial business sector and I look forward to being part of the tax practice as it continues to flourish.”

Barber Titleys/Eversheds, Russell Burnett

Property lawyer Russell Burnett has left the Leeds office of Eversheds to become a partner in the property department at Harrogate solicitors, Barber Titleys, in a significant appointment for the firm.

Russell Burnett, who has broad property experience, including providing strategic advice to a national house builder, will work alongside head of property, Richard Davis, a partner, who also joined Barber Titleys from international firm Eversheds 12 years ago, and head of planning Tim Axe.

Barber Titleys, which can trace its roots back to 1880, has 30 staff with specialist strengths in planning, commercial, residential and agricultural property, family law, private and charitable trust services and all matters relating to wills and inheritance planning. 

Keycare, Matthew Lindsay, Gaynor Owens and Christine Smith

Keycare has promoted three of its 35-strong team to the roles of associate director.

Matthew Lindsay, Gaynor Owens and Christine Smith have been jointly employed by the second generation family business for two decades in positions spanning sales, new business development and operations.

Integral to the company’s strategic succession plan, the newly created associate director position acknowledges achievement and anticipates the vital contribution the trio will play in the development of the business. They also follow the appointment of three senior board appointments aligned with the company’s planned strategic growth.

Keycare chief executive David Robertson said: “These posts reinforce our commitment to strong corporate governance, giving us a robust base to ensure Keycare goes from strength to strength.

“Matthew, Gaynor and Christine will be instrumental in helping to take the business to the next level and we congratulate them on their well-deserved promotions.”

Matthew said: “It’s very exciting to have the opportunity to play a formative role in Keycare’s vision, strategy and succession planning as the company continues to go from strength to strength.

“It’s a very interesting time for Keycare as we consistently deliver high levels of customer satisfaction, retain and further grow our existing policy base - and expand our expertise and knowledge into other sectors.”

Keycare’s commitment to developing, recognising and rewarding employees’ contributions is reflected in its Values in Action reward scheme. Introduced in 2004, it entails team members nominating each other for positive behaviours and/or outstanding work. 50% of Keycare employees have been with the company for at least four years.

Growth in jobs could slow down just as the recovery takes hold, a survey of over 1,000 employers has suggested.

Research by the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development shows the rate of recruitment increase has slowed significantly and the vast majority of organisations expect to give pay awards below the current rate of inflation.

Recruitment intentions among smaller firms were more positive than their larger counterparts.

Gerwyn Davies, the CIPD’s Labour Market Adviser, explained: “Employment growth, normally a lagging indicator of recovery, seems to have preceded the stronger signs of growth we’re now seeing. 

"So it is unsurprising that employment intentions are now dipping just as economic growth seems to be taking hold, with employers needing to tackle the major productivity hangover affecting the UK economy.

“Weak productivity partly explains why a majority of employers expect to continue awarding below inflation pay rises for their workforce. Sustainable increases in real wages can only be delivered if organisations can boost productivity, for example through smart investment in the training, development and management of their staff."

Young Newcastle-based marketer and writer Dominic Tarn has recently become a published author. 

His first book, The New Goldrush: A Quick Guide to Startups, takes an in depth look at the world of the startup, featuring interviews with the entrepreneurs at the heart of many successful businesses. 

We caught up with the Dominic, the CEO of startup communications agency Starticulate, to find out more about how the book was put together.

Why another startup book?

There are a few solid startup books out there, and I’d recommend the likes of Eric Ries (The Lean Startup), Reid Hoffman (LinkedIn Chairman, author of TheStartup of You), Steve Blank (The Startup Owner’s Manual); not to mention the countless informative and engaging books many great entrepreneurs like SirRichard Branson have written over the years. In fact, in the resources section andthroughout the book I have linked to numerous overs I highly recommend.

But what I found is there is little out there from those who are building startupsright now. So I decided to find out for myself what its really like in order to pass onthe lessons and experiences to those who are considering founding their ownstartup or working for one.

Joel Gascoigne, the Founder & CEO of Buffer, a startup now generating $3.8million annual revenue (it started in his bedroom in Birmingham as just an idea),wrote the foreword, because, "I agree with the author’s hope that if this book helpsa few more people start their own business, I would consider my contribution agood day’s work."

What excites you about the startup environment at the moment?

We are still in the middle of a Cambrian Explosion (a phrase used by The Economist and TechCrunch) for startups - the growth rate of innovation is exciting and unprecedented. The barriers to entry have never been lower, the amount of support - from governments, NGOs, to corporate giants - has never been better and there is tens of billions of dollars being poured into the global startup community (predominantly for software companies). T

The economy is still partly responsible for this, with institutional investors backing VCs for the same reason that angel investors are backing startups: everyone is banking on better returns from more high risk investments than they can get on the stock market. Which is one reason why there are so many people trying to launch companies. But the book comes with what I feel is a timely word of caution: this can not and will not last. The funding environment is too "frothy", which means first-time founders should rely more and more on validation and traction before seeking funding.

How did you research and prepare the book?

This started with an idea back in 2012, which turned into thousands of hours of research and my interviewing dozens of entrepreneurs across the region and theworld. I got access to ignite100, our very own £1m accelerator, which has recently graduated its third cohort of startups and has exciting plans for the future. That helped. As did working for startups in the region, like Recite Me and GoPixel (an ignite graduate from 2012) and writing for dozens across the world in 2013. This personal experience helped enormously, as did my editors, who helped shape themany drafts into a finished text. Finally it was ready in January 2014 and published worldwide on Amazon (for Kindle) on February 11, 2014.

How have your experiences in the North East shaped the book? 

The national media has been paying plenty of attention to this region recently - between the FT, The Guardian and Observer - it is great to know that what is happening here has been getting noticed. But that’s to be expected, since venture capitalists were talking about this regions startup scene reaching a ‘critical mass’ early in 2013.

In my experience I’d have to concur with this assessment. There are some fantastic companies emerging and scaling across the region, like Givey, Recite and CustomerSure, not to mention a supportive structure in place - from serial entrepreneurs to universities, the media, investors, grass roots organisations, like Refresh Teesside, Startup Beers and numerous others, and of course the work of

Paul Smith (ignite100) and Herb Kim (Thinking Digital Conference) deserve special mention. My experiences in the region have most definitely helped shape the book for the better.

The New Goldrush looks at the death of the corporate career ladderand encourages people to take a more entrepreneurial attitude towardstheir own careers. Do you think people are coming round to this way of thinking, or are notions of the career ladder still embedded?

In this economy people have to take more responsibility for their career path. Reid Hoffman is also a strong advocate of this. However, I wouldn’t go so far to say that the corporate career ladder is dead. Startups will never be large-scale sources of employment (Instagram for example only had a staff of 13 when it sold to Facebook for $1.13bn). But in terms of volume; smaller companies employ a greater percentage of the workforce, in developed economies, and this percentage has grown due to the recession - so the flip side of employment in smaller companies v’s larger is more people have a greater responsibility, not only for their own career path, but for the overall bottom line health of the organisations they work for.

Would you say you’ve followed your own advice in the book? 

I would, yes. Without the knowledge I have gained along the way I would not have been able to launch my own company. But at the same time, without the act of launching my own company, I don’t think I would have been able to write The New Goldrush with the same amount of first hand knowledge and experience, which I feel has been invaluable. 

Is anyone capable of being enterprising?

We are all to a certain extent naturally enterprising. Sir Richard Branson described entrepreneurship in much more relatable terms - he described it as being naturally playful, which I agree with. The best entrepreneurs are those, like Branson, who love what they do and have fun doing it. I see the entrepreneurial drive as something which its taught by experience, by necessity, and by the desire to make it happen.

For those who take the entrepreneurial path because they think its a cool thing to do, looks good on a CV, or you’re going to make a quick buck, you’ve taken the wrong career path. But for those who genuinely want to start a business there are certain factors which I feel should or will naturally be in play, which means its more a question of those who want to start a business, rather than something everyone will want to aim for. Most people start businesses either partly or mainly because they have to - which in my view is where circumstances meets necessity, meets some kind of ability, skill or background to make it possible.

Businesspeople have the chance to win a month’s worth of mentoring from YO! Sushi founder and former Dragons’ Den investor Simon Woodroffe.

A new competition from Volkswagen Commercial Vehicles and The Times is calling for businesses to enter by giving an overview of the current challenges they face, and why Woodroffe should work with them.

Simon Woodroffe said: "Business is about people, and I’m looking for individuals with drive and passion.

"The people I want to work with are ambitious, have vision, and want to make real change. There’s nothing like a bit of encouragement and that’s what we hope to give."

The deadline for initial applications is Thursday March 13 via this site.

Businesses should submit 300 words or a two-minute video providing an overview of their current business challenges, the steps that they are already taking to overcome them and a compelling reason why Woodroffe should work with them.

Newcastle’s business and enterprise academy school recently launched a fashion diploma to help its students capitalise on the £20 billion UK fashion industry.

Ammar Mirza, a joint founder of the diploma and founder of the ambitious Asian Business Connexions organisation, answered our questions about the diploma and how education has been linked with enterprise.

What skills will the future fashion and beauty operators need?

Individuals can no longer depend exclusively on good looks and the ability to pose to work within the industry.  Fashion operators need to have a broad, yet detailed, range of skills that are relevant to the ever-changing world of fashion and beauty.  

Alongside your traditional skills like hair & beauty, choreography, catwalk and photography, there is more of a focus now on ensuring those involved in the business have a wider range of skills like marketing, health and fitness, photography, acting and presenting, together with enterprise. 

There is no doubt that having a broader understanding of business is going to be very beneficial, hence enterprise featuring highly within the qualification.

What sort of opportunities could students look forward to in the North East?

There is a misconception that there are only a limited number of opportunities outside of the capital and major cities.  In reality, the North East offers a whole host of work and training opportunities with the likes of world recognised Tyne Tees Models and a range of media, fashion, retail and beauty organisations all based here.

The course offers a fantastic range of opportunities during study, including working on Miss Newcastle, various beauty and fashion shows and work experience across a number of businesses.  As the course is a Level 3 Diploma, students can go onto university or further education.  Regardless of whatever area of business, sector or training someone is interested in, there is something for everyone.

How will entrepreneurial skills be introduced in the course?

The course is underpinned through a business unit which takes students through establishing and running their own business. Students are encouraged to explore self-employment and to use real work experience to complement their understanding. Local entrepreneurs and industry experts help deliver the business unit, bringing education to life.

The enterprise and entrepreneurial learning is something that is transferable and of considerable benefit to the students regardless of what they decide to do.

What has been the response to the diploma from industry people? 

The response from businesses within the industry is very positive and exciting.  Given there has not previously been a recognised standard that covers all major aspects of the industry, businesses can now be assured that students completing the diploma are qualified to a high consistent level.  The course is the first of its kind worldwide.  Developed and led by industry, the qualification is relevant, unique and delivered in a practical manner. 

We anticipate the qualification being adopted by a whole range of organisations as the industry standard.

How are you planning to build on the course?

We intend to develop an entry level and level 2 course. However, and more importantly, the course will offer additional work experience opportunities linking up education to enterprise.  Students will gain a portfolio of experience and expertise that is transferable, with all of the training delivered being current and industry specific.   

One of the North East’s most respected business leaders, Lucy Armstrong, has been announced as the 11th David Goldman Visiting Professor of Innovation and Enterprise.

The David Goldman Endowment was established at the Business School in 2001 to create a legacy in memory of David Goldman, founder of software company Sage Group Plc. Lucy will be officially welcomed into the role on 19 March at the annual Goldman Lecture.

This will see her take charge of a 12-month tenure to shape and develop the understanding of enterprise and innovation, both inside and outside the Business School walls.

During her hour-long talk, Lucy will lay out her plans for the year ahead, when she will look at the challenges of succession and growth, with a particular focus on family businesses and export.

Lucy is currently the chief executive of The Alchemists - an organisation that works with ambitious, fast-growing, entrepreneurial companies - and brings with her a wealth of expertise and a formidable CV.  

Working across a variety of business, policy and educational arenas, she was Chair of Capital for Enterprise, responsible for over £4 billion of government backed debt and equity support to business, and chair of the CBI’s national Small and Medium Business Forum from 2010 to 2013. 

Lucy also chairs an angel investment network and is the deputy chair of NCFE, the national qualifications organisation, to name just a few interests outside of her work commitments.

Lucy will succeed Roy Sandbach, previously Procter & Gamble Research Fellow and currently leading the North East LEP Innovation Programme, as the David Goldman Visiting Professor.

Lucy Armstrong said: “This is an exciting time to be taking up my role.  The Business School has an enviable reputation and I am convinced that by focusing on planning for succession as a route for growth we will be able to increase the understanding of the potential that exists in established businesses. 

"It is vital to look beyond the innovative start ups and encourage the innovative second and third generations of owners and managers.“

The Goldman Endowment provides funding for: a permanent Professorship role within the Business School; the David Goldman Visiting Professor of Innovation and Enterprise; a David Goldman Doctoral Studentship, and the annual David Goldman Lecture.

The Business School’s permanent David Goldman Professor of Innovation and Enterprise Savvas Papagiannidis, said: “I am delighted to welcome Lucy to this role.  With her strong credentials she is set to continue the Goldman Endowment’s reputation of engaging highly regarded business leaders while imparting well-rounded knowledge.

“Over the past year we have learnt a great deal from Roy’s expertise and thank him for his time and dedication to the role.

“The Business School is looking forward to the year with Lucy, where we can continue to build excellence across pedagogy and real business practice.“

David Goldman Visiting Professor 2013-14, Roy Sandbach said: “I have had a thoroughly rewarding year at the Business School. Sharing a lifetime of innovation experience with students and staff, engaging with businesses across the region, supporting innovation conferences and helping to inspire schoolchildren in a university of possibilities….who could wish for more?  It has been a wonderful 12 months and I would like to thank all those who have worked with me.

“I wish Lucy a truly enriching time as the David Goldman Visiting Professor. I know that she will bring great knowledge, expertise and vitality to the role.“

The North East Local Enterprise Partnership has appointed former Department for Work and Pensions woman Sophie Haagensen as deputy director.

Sophie will play a key part in implementing the LEP’s Strategic Economic Plan (SEP), the core of the LEP’s bid to the Government’s £2 billion per year Local Growth Fund.

Durham-born Sophie has previously held key roles with government offices in London and the North East and joins the LEP from the Department for Work and Pensions where she led strategy management.

She headed a team responsible for providing advice to government ministers on the viability of new policy proposals and also advised on the long-term digitalisation of services and a major organisational restructure.

Formerly with the Cabinet Office in London, Sophie project managed the setup of Big Society Capital, the world’s first social investment bank, and oversaw the £150 million loan book of the Futurebuilders fund.

Edward Twiddy, director of the North East LEP said: “Sophie is a strong addition to the North East LEP’s team and an excellent replacement for strategy manager Gillian Roll. 

"In bringing new skills and experiences, Sophie is filling a key role for the LEP.  She has recognised expertise in strategic roles and an impressive track record of leading complex projects.

“Sophie’s understanding of the region’s private, social enterprise and public sectors will add strength and depth to the LEP team at an important time, as we near the end of consultation for the region’s long-term strategic economic plan before it goes forward to government in March.”

Sophie Haagensen said: “Having held strategic management roles within central government, I am delighted to now join the North East LEP to help shape the development of long-term plans to create jobs and economic growth in my home region.“

“Social investment is also an important priority for the region.  The North East LEP is committed to making this region the most advanced market for social enterprise in the UK, and it is built into all of the LEP’s strategies. This focus will help establish commercially viable social enterprises that will have a lasting impact across the region.“

Sophie has an MBA from Newcastle Business School, where she received the award for the ‘best postgraduate student’ as well as an award for her research dissertation on business clusters and the Newcastle Science City development.

She also developed an idea for a social enterprise, which won Northumbria University’s business competition and was runner-up in the Blueprint regional finals.

Sophie’s first Civil Service post involved implementing a new service delivery model across Tees Valley district. She gained business experience in the private sector in the North East prior to joining the Civil Service.

Image source: Teacher McKinley

The Leeds City Region is attempting to build trade relationships with overseas markets through a programme linking international students with regional businesses.    

The Leeds City Region Enterprise Partnership (LEP) has teamed up with Yorkshire Universities and UKTI to deliver a pilot scheme to connect businesses with an international graduate or postgraduate student who can provide vital intelligence, language and cultural skills to help the company break into target export markets.   

The concept originated from discussions last year between private sector members of the LEP’s Business Innovation and Growth Panel and senior representatives of the region’s universities.   

The Prime Minister has since announced, following a trade mission to China last year, that UKTI will run a similar scheme nationally from summer 2014.

The UKTI has committed to supporting the Yorkshire Universities and LEP scheme in the Leeds City Region instead of rolling out its own programme.  

Eric Hawthorn, the LEP’s lead on international trade and MD of Shipley-based global telecommunications manufacturer, Radio Design, commented: “There are 34,000 international students in Yorkshire at any one time, and they are a tremendous but as yet untapped resource for the region’s businesses.

"With their first-hand cultural knowledge, language skills and contacts, international students can help SMEs gain a thorough understanding of doing business in target overseas markets, which is a key first step towards exporting.

"I’m delighted that this initiative by the LEP and Yorkshire Universities is not just being rolled out by UKTI here in Yorkshire, but has been recognised by the Prime Minister as an opportunity to boost export rates nationally.”  

Professor Bob Cryan, Vice-Chancellor of the University of Huddersfield and Chair of the LEP’s Business Innovation and Growth Panel said: “International graduates can help businesses that are looking to expand into overseas markets gain a greater understanding about how business is done around the world.  

"The language skills and cultural awareness that these students can bring to a company can be invaluable when embarking on a new business venture, and this specialist scheme offers a flexible, cost effective way to bring skills and talent to the heart of business.”  

Mark Robson, Regional Director for UKTI Yorkshire and the Humber, commented: “Two of the most significant barriers companies face in entering overseas markets are a lack of local knowledge and insight about a target market, and a lack of dedicated resource.

"This programme offers scope to solve both issues, and it should prove enormously beneficial for many local companies.”  

The pilot scheme aims to support a small number of placements in the 2013 – 2014 academic year. The placements will contribute to the LEP’s overall drive to boost exports in the Leeds City Region through its We are International campaign.   

For more information about the scheme, visit:  http://www.yorkshireuniversities.ac.uk/work/businessprojects/ 

Image source: Eric The Fish (2013)

A North West cleaning firm have continued their successful start to 2014 by securing the cleaning contract for a group of popular Merseyside bars.

JCS Cleaning NW Ltd has won the lucrative contract to provide their services to Salt Dog Slims and their associated bars and clubs.

The contract includes Salt Dog Slims - one of Liverpool’s hottest drinking spots - their Seel Street neighbours Santa Chupitos and 81 Ltd, the exclusive invitation only hideaway, located upstairs from Salt Dog Slims.

Managing director, James Morris said: "It’s great to have yet another set of bars from Liverpool amongst our clients.

"We already work with some of the most popular night spots across the city; such as The Bierkeller, Hannah’s bar, Igloo and Republik. By adding Salt Dogs and Santa’s to our client list, we’re quickly gaining the majority of the cities leisure venues."

Based primarily in Liverpool and Manchester, JCS Cleaning NW Ltd is one of the UK’s biggest commercial cleaning firms with a wealth of experience and an excellent reputation.

2014 has been earmarked by the company as a year to expand upon their success in Liverpool and develop further in the ever thriving city of Manchester.

James said: "We’ve already got a number of high profile clients in Manchester but we’re looking to take advantage of the constant development occurring across the city and expand further.

"There are new restaurants, clubs, bars and offices opening by the second and we’re hoping to work with many of these new venues in the upcoming months."

Yorkshire’s workers are feeling unloved by their employers, a new survey by Investors in People has found. Over half (55%) of full-time employees in Yorkshire feel their employer doesn’t care about their health and wellbeing, as long as they get the job done*.

Of those who stated their employer doesn’t care about their health and wellbeing, 46% say it has led to them feeling less motivated, with over a quarter (27%) stating they have considered looking for a new job as a result. What’s more, over one in six (16%) admitted they don’t work as hard, and a further 15% said they actually resent their employer.

The survey also provides a warning to employers who don’t invest in staff wellbeing, with more than one in five workers in Yorkshire (22%) having ‘pulled a sickie’ in the last year, and almost one in ten (8%)  doing so more than five times.

While most sickness absence is genuine, those who described themselves as unhappy in their role are more likely to take ‘sickies’, than those who described themselves as happy, with almost three in 10 (27%) of unhappy workers in the UK having embellished the truth about being ill to take a day off on at least one occasion, compared with 20% of contented employees.

Looking at genuine sickness absence among workers, 44% of employees have taken at least a day off work due to a cold, flu or a stomach bug. Other reasons for taking a sick day included suffering from a physical injury (19%) and a recurring condition such as a migraine (22%).

However, the research shows that over two fifths (43%) of those questioned said the health and wellbeing benefits offered by their employer improve their overall job satisfaction.

Respondents stated that flexible hours (42%) was the top health and wellbeing benefit which makes or would make them feel most satisfied and valued in their role. This was closely followed by health insurance (38%) and dental insurance (25%). Over one in twenty employees said they would have greater job satisfaction with the opportunity for a career break/sabbatical (7%).

But it isn’t just grand gestures and costly practices which help to boost attitudes to work – even easy to implement measures have an impact on employees’ health and wellbeing, with over one in ten workers in Yorkshire stating that job satisfaction is or could be improved with complimentary fresh fruit (11%) in the office.

With eight out of ten (82%) people saying they would feel more positive towards their employer if they offered better health and wellbeing benefits, the research suggests that by improving some simple health and wellbeing practices, businesses in Yorkshire could reduce the number of ‘sickies’ taken by staff.

Paul Devoy, Head of Investors in People, said:

“Organisations in Yorkshire need to see staff health and wellbeing as crucial to their business and staff retention. Our research shows that happier staff are less likely to take time off sick. What’s more, companies offering health and wellbeing perks will see real business benefits. But they don’t have to be costly – desk posture assessment and support or complimentary fresh fruit in the office can have real positive impact on an employee’s health and make them feel valued. Investors in People is encouraging businesses to consider how they treat their staff to ensure they have the happiest and most productive workforce.”

Investors in People has launched a free health and wellbeing tool to help businesses find out what more they should be doing for their staff, and how their business could benefit as a result. To find out more, visit http://bit.ly/IIPWellbeing

* Survey carried out by Censuswide. 172 full time employees in Yorkshire were surveyed online between 1-11 February 2014.

York Science Park’s  Expresso Properties has completed over £7m worth of projects since moving into the Park’s incubation space, Springboard, last summer.

Expresso Properties is a division of Expresso Investments which was established by architect and designer Stephen Hampshire, chartered accountant Jonathan Emmott and chartered surveyor Nick Robinson.

The firm specialises in developing mixed use regeneration schemes, rebranding properties, refurbishment and green field sites.

Since its move to Springboard, the company has been working on the design, development and refurbishment of projects for a number of leading social housing providers in the North of England.

The three projects included the refurbishment and rebranding of 146 apartments in locations including Darlington, Gateshead and Hartlepool.

Each one required a bespoke approach to make the most of each opportunity to provide flexibility for the future.

Jonathan Emmott, Director of Expresso Properties said: “Our first six months in Springboard have been incredibly busy and very exciting.

"With our combined experience and expertise in both commercial and residential property we have already been able to secure and deliver three quite complex projects which our clients are delighted with.

"We have agreed our acquisition criteria for 2014 with our equity funders and we are very positive about the year ahead.”

Tracey Smith, Managing Director of York Science Park, said: “We are thrilled that Expresso Investments has got off to such a fantastic start in Springboard.

"Their figures reflect that the economy is on the upturn and confidence is returning to the property sector.  With their skills and expertise I am sure they will continue to report their success and see sustained growth.”

Image source: katerha

Seymour Enterprises Ltd, which operates various businesses within distribution, logistics and ground transportation sectors, has taken on the Sheffield franchise of parcel carrier XDP Express.

hlw Keeble Hawson was commissioned to secure a five-year lease on a new 5,300 sq ft depot at Orgreave Close on the Dorehouse Industrial Estate after it was decided to relocate the business to a larger site from the Marsden Industrial Estate in Handsworth.

Amy Smith, a solicitor at the Sheffield office of hlw Keeble Hawson, said: “The acquisition of this new site for Seymour Enterprises is further evidence that Sheffield’s commercial property market continues to gain momentum.“

Adrian Seymour, director of Seymour Enterprises, commented: “The acquisition of the XDP Sheffield franchise by Seymour Enterprises was a perfect opportunity to expand our business interests into a sector that is experiencing considerable growth due in part to the boom in internet shopping.

"We chose the Dorehouse Industrial Estate because of its convenient location and access to the motorway network. hlw Keeble Hawson’s expertise has been instrumental in sealing the deal for us.“