Image source: markyharky

London Gatwick has opened its first dedicated business lounge with global workplace provider Regus offering on-the-go business travellers a drop-in facility that is ideally located by South Terminal Arrivals.

The new Regus Express facilities offer convenient access for those needing a quiet place to work, hold a meeting or even freshen up with a shower prior to departing or on landing at Gatwick. The business lounge comprises of an open plan area for co-working, with free Wi-Fi and refreshments, as well as meeting rooms available by the hour.

The location is the first Regus Express to combine arrivals facilities such as showers and breakfast with the more traditional meeting room and business lounge offering.

With Gatwick serving 129 destinations by rail and over 200 destinations across 90 countries by air, one in five passengers are now travelling for business. The airport also serves 45 of the top 50 EU business routes, making it the perfect place for a central meeting location.

Phil Kemp, Global Managing Director of Regus Third Place, said: “As a company, we are committed to meeting the needs of the modern worker by extending our network at leading transport and retail locations across the globe.    The opening of Regus Express at Gatwick Airport is the latest development in this strategy to help businesspeople work more productively on the move.

“Gatwick, with its magnitude of connections to business destinations around Europe and its ability to connect arriving passengers to London within 30 minutes, provided us with the perfect opportunity to offer Regus Express to its 38 million passengers.”

Guy Stephenson, Chief Commercial Officer at London Gatwick, said: “Today one in five passengers travelling through Gatwick is flying for business thanks to the vast range of destinations we serve, quick rail times into central London and efficient airport experience. The opening of this high quality Regus Express facility will only add to what Gatwick has to offer the ever growing proportion of business travellers using the airport, enabling them to keep working on the go, rest and freshen up before continuing their journeys.”

The opening of Regus Express at Gatwick Airport is the latest milestone in the roll-out of Regus’ Third Place concept - professional workspaces and office facilities at places where business people and mobile workers pass through in daily life.   It follows the launch of Regus Express locations at various locations across the UK including motorway service stations, shopping centres and retail parks.    

Image source: ToastyKen

Yorkshire and the Humber SME’s are the third most likely to be exploring international trade opportunities, according to a new regional YouGov study released with Citrix.

Surveying 2,019 small firms, the study reported that businesses across the UK are increasingly looking to export with 50% of those surveyed already trading with countries outside of the UK, a number set to increase to 60% by 2016.

On a regional level, London was at the top, with 59% of businesses in the city currently exporting, followed by the South East (47%) and Yorkshire and the Humber (43%).

For Scotland it was reported that 42% of SMEs said they had customers abroad. In the North West this fell to 37%, while the South West (35%), Wales (28%) and the North East (26%) were least likely to export.

Small firms in Yorkshire and the Humber and the East of England were found to be more likely to source products and services from abroad than to sell overseas.

Of the countries regional businesses are choosing to export into, London is “selling everywhere” and was found to be almost twice more likely to sell to China than any other region.

The South West is the second “most prolific region” with 11% of its small firms selling to Russia, 7% selling to China, and 13% selling into Japan, Korea and Taiwan.

Andrew Millard, senior director of international marketing, at Citrix said: "As expected London trades the most internationally but other regions are seeing big gains - Yorkshire and Humber and the South East are also leading the way along with the capital when it comes to global exports.

“Emerging markets have an appetite to buy products made in Britain, which shows the importance of continued investment in the UK manufacturing industry.“

FOR the past four years Newcastle’s Quorum Business Park has been proud to support the Cash for Kids charity, you could say that it’s become something of a park Christmas tradition.

The Cash for Kids mission is simple: to raise money for local children and young people who in the local community who are disadvantaged or who simply need extra care and guidance.

The charity recognises that, at Christmas time, every local child should have something to wake up to on Christmas morning, so as the nights start drawing in, Quorum asks its tenants and the wider community to donate toys and gifts. These are then distributed to over 39,000 children in the North East. For many, it might be the only Christmas present they receive.

The collection of gifts is only one part of the support that the Park provides to the charity, they also provide a collection point and sorting space for the toys that are donated from across the region.

Debbie Craig, Cash for Kids’ Events and Projects Executive, said: “Without the support of Quorum Business Park, in terms of donations and the space that they provide, we simply would not be able to collect and distribute so many toys. The park’s dedication to helping Cash for Kids really does make a big difference to children’s lives in the North East.”

Laura Barber, Quorum Business Park’s Events & Sustainability Manager, said: “Cash for Kids is a fantastic charity, which does so much for children living in poverty in the North East. Quorum is proud to actively support such a good cause and hopes that its involvement can make local children’s Christmases a little bit happier.”

Bennett Opie Ltd, a leading manufacturer and distributer of high quality produce and specialist producer in pickles, ginger and cocktail products, is announcing its expansion into South Korea.  Led by owner William Opie, this growth solidifies the brand’s international presence, with products now available across the world – from Iceland to New Zealand  and now South Korea.

Building on its existing export base of 20 countries, South Korea becomes the latest territory to be explored by this specialist in British pickling methods.  Whilst the business has been exporting since 1988, when it won the Queens award for international business, in recent years it has begun to truly reap the benefits of a global marketplace, with sales increasing nearly 50% in the past four years.

Based in Kent and originally founded in 1880, this British business has taken ‘global’ to a new level.  It is the sole importer of Monin syrups for coffee shops and bars, Lingham’s chilli sauces from Malaysia and Ferns pickles and pastes from India – importing and exporting products and raw materials across the globe. In 2014 the company has also expanded into Dubai and the Middle East with their Garden of England products, and is set to enjoy further growth from a booming Chinese Market.

With over 100 years’ experience in the distribution, pickling and preserving industry, the company strives to create, produce and distribute high quality products all year round.  With a current turnover of £24.7million (2013), it is a stark contrast to the £5 Bennett Opie had in his pocket when he first set up the company.  Citing a year-on-year sales turnover growth of 12% over 2012 and doubling turnover in the last six years, the company also acquired a new warehouse in Kent – setting the stage for further rapid expansion in the coming years. 

Spanning four generations of the Opie line, the family-run business is one of the oldest privately owned food companies in the UK. Established by William Opie’s Great Grandfather - a Cornish miner who journeyed to London to make his fortune in the big City, the company has been built up by William’s father and “Uncle Tony” – continuing to produce outstanding produce, including pickles, ginger and walnuts.

As chairman of “Produced in Kent”, William Opie is keen not to forget his British heritage.  Taking pride in sourcing local ingredients in the UK, as well as looking further afield for quality produce, William has sourced everything from walnuts to Bramley apples picked just four miles from the factory. Unlike larger producers, the company does all of its work by hand, enabling them to craft a superior product, something which has increased appeal overseas.

William Opie, owner of Bennett Opie Ltd says, “today’s success has only been made possible thanks to the decision to expand the business into international markets.  The company has never neglected its quintessentially English roots, however we have built on our heritage to appeal to other cultures.  Expanding to South Korea is part of this plan, however in the next five years, we aim to go further and for our products to be available on dinner tables in every corner of the world”.

Sourcing raw materials worldwide including the UK, Bennett Opie is truly a global company, using ginger from China, gherkins and peppercorns from India, onions from Holland and cherries from Italy.  Sourcing the best from the best ensures the quality needed for the Bennett Opie range to remain in global demand.

Image source: JeepersMedia

Lancaster University has joined forced with Santander Universities Global Division to offer students and staff scholarships and awards worth £115k.

The agreement provides Lancaster University students and staff with numerous benefits and opportunities, which range from study abroad experiences to awards and scholarships.

The partnership between Lancaster University and Santander Universities Global Division was established in 2011, where the bank offered £168,000 of financial support over three years.

One of the aims of the agreement is to encourage students from the University’s partner, the Federal University of Lavras in Brazil, to join Masters programmes offered by Lancaster Environment Centre.

The agreement also includes funding for Lancaster University Management School, enabling enterprise initiatives with Brazil and offering grants to staff for joint-research funding bids.

Sam Robinson, who received a scholarship to undertake a research project in Brazil, said: “I can’t express my thanks enough for the unique experience I was given through this scholarship.

"With the grant I was able to stay for two months, almost half of which I spent in Rio de Janeiro state recording field data in the beautiful Atlantic forest – one of the world’s biodiversity hotspots. Without the generous support of Santander such a project would have been impossible to undertake. “

Simon Bray, director of Santander Universities UK, said: “Our partnership with Lancaster University has given great opportunities to students and members of staff during the past three years.

"With the renewal of this agreement we not only confirm, but also increase our commitment with the University for a further three years.

"At Santander Universities we are proud to enable members of the Lancaster University community to pursue their academic goals.“

A new business space has been created to help start-ups and small businesses around the Wortley area of Leeds.

Bizispace, a provider of business accommodation, has created 16 new small offices and workshops at its Photon House centre on Percy Street. 

The development is in response to an increasing number of enquiries from start-ups looking for small offices and business units

Business centre manager Hayley Waudby explained: “Over the past year we have had more than 120 enquiries from companies with between one and four members of staff.

“Of all Bizspace sites across Leeds and Yorkshire, Photon House in particular has been attracting a lot of interest for smaller workspace.

"We had a limited number of small offices, so decided to split a large, 6,000 square foot open plan office to create a community for small and start-up businesses.

“Although there are similar spaces available in the city centre, these naturally come with higher associated costs, so we believe our new start-up spaces will really fill a gap in the market and help people in Wortley get their ventures up and running.“

Sales and marketing director at Bizspace, Emma Long, commented: “We are really pleased with the new workspace. We are hoping that Wortley will become known as a great location for businesses to launch and flourish and that we will see some leading businesses of the future get off the ground at Photon House.“

For more information on the workspace or open days call Hayley on 0113 277 5200.

FOR the past four years Newcastle’s Quorum Business Park has been proud to support the Cash for Kids charity, you could say that it’s become something of a park Christmas tradition.

The Cash for Kids mission is simple: to raise money for local children and young people who in the local community who are disadvantaged or who simply need extra care and guidance.

The charity recognises that, at Christmas time, every local child should have something to wake up to on Christmas morning, so as the nights start drawing in, Quorum asks its tenants and the wider community to donate toys and gifts. These are then distributed to over 39,000 children in the North East. For many, it might be the only Christmas present they receive.

The collection of gifts is only one part of the support that the Park provides to the charity, they also provide a collection point and sorting space for the toys that are donated from across the region.

Debbie Craig, Cash for Kids’ Events and Projects Executive, said: “Without the support of Quorum Business Park, in terms of donations and the space that they provide, we simply would not be able to collect and distribute so many toys. The park’s dedication to helping Cash for Kids really does make a big difference to children’s lives in the North East.”

Laura Barber, Quorum Business Park’s Events & Sustainability Manager, said: “Cash for Kids is a fantastic charity, which does so much for children living in poverty in the North East. Quorum is proud to actively support such a good cause and hopes that its involvement can make local children’s Christmases a little bit happier.”

A former seamstress with a flair for wedding dress design has launched her own bridal boutique in Durham.

Julie Cooper decided to turn her passion for wedding wear into a full time business venture and with the help of the North East Rural Growth Network, earlier this month opened Ivory and Gold Bridal Boutique in Trimdon.

The shop, a former community centre based at Redesdale Shopping Centre in the village, sells sourced dresses as well as designs Julie has created herself and wedding accessories including bridesmaid dresses, shoes and tiaras.

Julie has been a seamstress for 40 years, having taken to sewing at the age of 12 when she realised she had a natural talent for it.

Julie runs Ivory and Gold Bridal Boutique on her own but does call on the services of her wedding make up artist daughter Carrie-Anne Smith when she needs an extra pair of hands.

As well as the range of dresses and accessories she stocks, Julie also offers customers an alterations service, both on wedding and general wear.

East Durham Business Service’s Rural Enterprise Development Officer, Sarah Marshall, said: "Julie came to see me with a clear idea of what she wanted to achieve and I was so impressed with her determination and desire to turn her idea into a viable business.

"When you see the boutique now compared to what it was like just a few months ago, it’s clear how hard she has worked to get it ready. She’s done a brilliant job.

"It’s people like Julie that the North East Rural Growth Network programme is there to benefit."

Julie said: "After having the children I went back to work in a completely different role as an assistant at a convenience store.

"Within five years I was promoted to assistant manager and then manager and it was in this role I learned how to run a business.

"I’d also worked in a bridal shop in the past and decided I really wanted to combine these passions and my skills as a seamstress to launch my own bridal boutique.

"I started looking into the idea seriously and knew the unit at Redesdale Shopping Centre was standing empty, so I enquired into the possibility of taking it on.

"I also approached East Durham Business Service about getting support to set the business up and with the planning process and I was lucky enough to be eligible for assistance through the North East Rural Growth Network programme which was a bonus.

"Once I’d done all of the planning and preparation behind the scenes, it was then all hands on deck to gut the shop and get it ready for opening and I must admit when I see it now I am so proud. We’ve achieved so much in a short space of time, especially considering the state it was in when I got the keys.

"In the few weeks since we opened business has increased steadily and it’s clear word is spreading as I’ve had customers in from further afield. I am so pleased I went down this route and I am really enjoying it."

Clive Drinkwater, Regional Director of UK Trade & Investment (UKTI) North West is challenging North West businesses to reach out to one more market, as the region prepares for the fifth national Export Week.

Export Week takes place from 10 – 14 November with a range of free events aimed at helping companies across the UK to make the most of their overseas potential – and this year, women in exports are a key focus.

If women-led small businesses grew and exported at the same rate as the average of all small business employers, Britain could have up to 10,000 more exporters.

Yet the percentage of women led businesses exporting was only 13% in 2012, according to the last BIS Small Business Service. (This compares to 19% for all SMEs).

It has been suggested that key barriers to women exporting include not having the mind-set to move into exports; not having access to finance and not having the necessary business contacts and experience.

Another perceived barrier for some women may be cultural issues, but none of these factors needs to be an issue.

Sarah Galbraith, Director of The Galbraith Muir Consultancy, recently visited Al Khobar as part of a UKTI North West Trade Mission.

She said: “I have been contemplating Saudi Arabia as a potential target market for some time.  I had done enough homework to know there was an opportunity for my company’s services, but never moved forward with anything, perhaps because I anticipated cultural differences as a businesswoman.

“The trade mission came at the right time in my business calendar, and offered me a ‘comfort zone’ as a first-timer, to travel around and evaluate the market.

 “Mumtaz Abdulla, one of the female Commercial Officers in Al Khobar, gave me an excellent insight, informed me of the relevant dress code and what I should expect. 

“When I was out in public I wore an Abaya and had a head scarf at the ready, but as a woman in business there was no issue at all in my talking to male or female decision makers.

 “I went there to fact find and connect with potential business partners, with the aim of gaining new business by 2014.  I came away with some really substantive opportunities and am now busy following them up.  I would now be quite happy to visit on my own, especially knowing that the British Trade Office is there for support and guidance.“

 As part of UKTI’s Export Week there will be a series of Women in International Business Forums taking place with all female panel sessions. There are some places still available, and companies can sign up via the Export Week website or by contacting the UKTI North West International Trade Team.

The events and locations are:

•         Women in International Business Forum - Burnley FC, East Lancashire, Tuesday 11 November

•         Women in International Business Forum - Chester Racecourse, Cheshire, Wednesday 12 November

•         Women in International Business Forum Formby Hall, Southport, Merseyside, Thursday 13 November

Clive Drinkwater, UKTI Regional Director North West, said: “During Export Week and beyond I want to encourage businesses to reach out to new markets.

“If every current exporter in the region achieves this, we could increase the GDP in the North West by an estimated £2 billion, significantly aiding economic recovery and giving a boost to our competitiveness as a region.

“We have a considerable number of female entrepreneurs in the region – many of whom are UKTI Export Champions - and we are keen for more women-led businesses to come along to our events and make the most of their export potential.

“As well as the many established women led firms in the region, we know there are also many women who have grown hobbies into businesses. These small, often new firms get enquiries on-line from overseas customers and owners may not know how to maximise this export opportunity further.

"Our aim is to show that exporting is possible for any women led business. All it takes is determination, the right advice, a bit of inspiration and support.“

Tees Valley Business Compass, Stephen Carey, Gillian Baker and Graeme Foster

A Tees Valley partnership that supports small and medium-sized businesses has welcomed on board three new team members.

The Tees Valley Business Compass team has been created to help SMEs in the Tees Valley to realise their potential for expansion and growth.

The three new recruits, Stephen Carey, Gillian Baker and Graeme Foster, all bring a wealth of experience to their new roles which will strengthen Business Compass’ already strong offer to local businesses.

Stephen said: “I have always enjoyed working directly with small and medium businesses, helping them to grow or to resolve issues and problems as well as supporting their ambitions to grow.

“This is what I’ve done for the vast majority of my career, whether it be during over 20 years working with BT or during my time running my own business.

Gillian, who lives in Stockton, said: “I was attracted to the role with Business Compass as it utilises my past experience helping SMEs maximise opportunities and access the relevant support available to them.

“As well as providing support to local businesses, Business Compass is also playing a vital role in the economic success of the Tees Valley and it’s really rewarding to be part of that.”

Graeme, who has more than 20 years’ experience in the electronics manufacturing sector,

said: “I previously worked in the private sector for companies including Samsung and Valeo and more recently with voluntary and community sector organisations in the Tees Valley on an infrastructure development programme.

“I’m looking forward to working with Tees Valley companies to help them to develop and strengthen their position in existing supply chains and identifying opportunities for them to diversify into new supply chains within the Tees Valley and beyond into national and international markets.”

Ennsub, Peter Farthing 

Subsea products and equipment manufacturer Ennsub has appointed a new sales and marketing manager to drive sales activities within the company’s expanding commercial function. 

Peter Farthing joins Ennsub from Cortland, where he was international ROV/defence business development manager for three years in addition to having extensive sales, marketing and commercial experience gained over a 15 year career in the international offshore oil and gas markets.

The role aims to facilitate sales of Ennsub’s products and equipment, and initiate, build and maintain relationships with the company’s customer base worldwide.

He will also be responsible for managing the sales function and providing input to Ennsub’s business strategy and global development activities.

Commenting on the appointment, Farthing said: “I’m delighted to join such a dynamic company which is focused on excellence and forward thinking and has the ambition to become a recognised leader in those areas in which it participates.”

Seaham Hall Hotel and Spa, Ben Hunt

One of the hospitality industry’s most senior managers has returned to his North East roots after joining the team at a top, five star hotel.

Ben Hunt, originally from Yarm, who has more than 20 years’ experience at some of the country’s leading hotels, has been appointed Restaurants and Bars Manager at Seaham Hall Hotel and Spa, County Durham.

Ben, 38, joins Seaham Hall from five star Luton Hoo Hotel, Bedfordshire, having also previously held senior positions at Calcot Manor, Gloucestershire, four star Crathorne Hall in North Yorkshire and Ashdown Park Spa Hotel, East Sussex.

In his new position he will be responsible for ensuring the smooth running of the hotel’s two AA rosettes Byron’s Bar and Grill and the pan Asian Ozone restaurant within its award winning Serenity Spa.

“It’s wonderful not only to be back in the North East but to be at Seaham Hall,” said the father of one; a keen golfer and Liverpool FC fan, “as I’ve been watching its development with interest and always aspired to work here.

“The standard of the food and beverage offering is exceptionally high and I am looking forward to working closely with executive chef Simon Bolsover to strengthen its reputation for superb – yet affordable – dining.”

Nortech Group, Ian Basford

Nortech Group, the award-winning Wynyard-based professional engineering design and project management company, has made an experienced appointment to its executive team.

Ian Basford, 61, from Stockton-on-Tees, has been welcomed to the role of Director of Nortech Management & Consultancy Services (NMCS), a new division which will provide “value-added” support and focused solutions including strategic reviews and advice, management, supply chain, commercial, planning and dispute resolution services.

This division will serve existing Nortech Group clients in the oil & gas sector as well as new clients in the maritime, petrochemical, pharmaceuticals, renewables and power sectors.

Mr Basford, who is heading up a team of twelve, said: “I am delighted to join the executive team at Nortech Group in the role of Director of Nortech Management & Consultancy Services.

“Nortech Group is constantly growing and developing with talented staff, and this new division has been founded from existing talent at Nortech Group with huge scope to continue to grow and develop in the coming months.”

Surgo, Jamie Graham

Surgo Construction (Surgo), one of the region’s leading independent building contractors, has announced the appointment of a senior estimator at its Newcastle head office.

Following a 13-year career with the regional office of a national contractor, Jamie Graham has joined Surgo’s established estimating team in this key role.

Outside his day job Jamie is the regional chairman of the Lord’s Taverners Northumberland and Durham branch, a charity which supports young people through sport.

Speaking about his new appointment, Jamie said: “Surgo Construction has a great reputation as a leading contractor in the region working for a diverse range of clients in sectors spanning education, social housing and commercial developments, so I was thrilled to be offered the opportunity to join the team.”

Langleys Solicitors, Christian Hunt

The corporate team at Langleys Solicitors has boosted its ranks with the appointment of solicitor Andrew Gawley.

Andrew joins the York firm after completing his training contract with Watson Burton in Newcastle, having completed the Legal Practice Course at Nottingham Law School.

Christian Hunt, who heads up the corporate team at Langleys, said: “Andrew joins the team at an exciting time, he is an enthusiastic and knowledgeable young lawyer who will bring a fresh perspective to our clients and we are delighted he has joined us.

"His arrival further strengthens our growing team which has seen an increase in transactional activity during the course of this year.”

hlw Keeble Hawson, Elizabeth Davies, Kate Mawer, James Burdekin and Fiona Ward

hlw Keeble Hawson is further strengthening its Sheffield and Doncaster offices with the appointment of four newly qualified solicitors.

The four young lawyers are on board permanently after joining as trainees in 2012. James Burdekin joins the corporate department at Commercial House, Sheffield, where his colleague Fiona Ward is a member of the commercial property team.

Kate Mawer starts her legal career with the private client practice at the firm’s Old Cathedral Vicarage offices in the city, while Elizabeth Davies boosts the clinical negligence team in Doncaster.

Ron Whitlam, senior partner at hlw Keeble Hawson, said: “Our rigorous selection process ensures that we recruit only the highest calibre of candidates in what are particularly competitive times for both recent legal graduates, and those completing their training contracts.

"This ensures that hlw Keeble Hawson can continue to offer the excellent service on which our reputation is built.“

Cicada Communications, Richard Abbott

Harrogate-based Cicada Communications has appointed experienced business journalist Richard Abbott as account director.

Di Burton, managing director of Cicada Communications, said: “Cicada Communications was built on a strong B2B client base. Our strategy now is to further develop this area – and who better to lead the charge than Richard.”

Richard said: “My aim is to help businesses enhance their reputation by using my industry contacts and deep understanding of how journalists work. As the economy recovers, there has never been a better time to ensure your voice is heard.

“Cicada Communications always impressed me as a journalist – now I’m looking forward to helping to develop the business further.”

Prior to Yorkshire Business Insider, Richard was deputy editor of the trade magazine Marketing and on the successful launch of advertising industry magazine Campaign in the Middle East, which saw him based in Dubai.

Richard works predominantly on business-to-business client accounts, including Langleys Solicitors, Finance Yorkshire, Lorien Engineering and the Institute of Directors (IoD).

Irwin Mitchell (Sheffield), Natalie Hager

The Sheffield office of Irwin Mitchell has boosted its Corporate & Commercial team with the appointment of Solicitor Natalie Hager.

Natalie joins Irwin Mitchell from British Telecom where she worked in the organisation’s Corporate and Major Transactions team.

Natalie said: “I’m excited to be joining Irwin Mitchell, particularly as it is very well known in the Yorkshire market place for its high quality client base and corporate advisory expertise.

"The firm has continued to invest in growing its Business Legal Services team and I look forward to working with the team and supporting this expansion in the future.” 

Irwin Mitchell recently announced that in Yorkshire during the first half of 2014, it advised on deals with a total value of £423 million.

Crown Paints, Ian Atkinson

Crown Paints has appointed a new site manager at its Hull plant to drive forward new advances in manufacturing as part of a major investment programme.

Ian Atkinson joins the paint manufacturer as Hull site manager, with a remit to develop and deliver a clearly focused strategy for the plant.

David McCombe, manufacturing director at Crown Paints, said: “Ian will make a significant contribution to the ongoing success of our business and we are looking forward to the opportunities ahead.

“Our mission to remain at the forefront of the industry is illustrated by the introduction of innovative initiatives such as the new high speed filling line.

“Continuous investment in our manufacturing facilities, both at Hull and our other site at Darwen, Lancashire, will help us to maintain and continuously deliver our excellent track record of manufacturing.

“We are proud to be one of the largest long standing paint manufacturers in the UK – and delivering excellence in manufacturing is key to us staying in this position for the long term.”

IoD (East Yorkshire) Pat Coyle

Pat Coyle has been appointed the new chair of the East Yorkshire branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD).

She succeeds Richard Tuplin who steps down after seven years in the role.

Richard Tuplin said: “Pat is absolutely right for this role and it’s a great appointment for the region. This is a time of tremendous change and opportunity for the Humber and I’m delighted that Pat will be leading the IoD into what I believe will be a prosperous and exciting period.”

Natalie Sykes, the regional director for the IoD in Yorkshire and the Humber, said: “Pat brings a wealth of business experience and knowledge of the IoD to the role of chair – the East Yorkshire branch couldn’t be in better hands as it starts a new chapter in its history.

“Richard is to be congratulated for a very successful period at the helm of the branch, growing the membership and making the IoD’s voice very clearly heard across the Humber business community.”

Clarion, Emma Dann

Emma Dann has joined Clarion’s corporate finance team as an associate.  She returns to Leeds having previously worked at Eversheds and Addleshaw Goddard.

Paul King, partner in Clarion’s corporate finance practice said: “Emma has extensive corporate finance experience and will be a welcome addition to the team as Clarion continues to grow its share of the regional corporate finance market.

“There have been a number of appointments to the corporate team over the last few months highlighting the continued expansion of the department. 

"This is not only a reflection of improving confidence amongst businesses, but the fact that Clarion is recognised as one of the go-to firms for businesses that want to get their deals done.”

Provide Education, Casey Bullen

Barnsley-based Provide Education has appointed a new recruitment consultant, Casey Bullen.

Provide Education is a specialist education recruitment agency which offers a 24-hour rapid response service, placing supply teachers and other staff into jobs in schools.

Provide Education director Katie Buckle said: “It has been great to welcome Casey on board. She has settled in very well and quickly built up relationships with schools and job candidates alike.

“Casey has already brought on some new schools and recruited new teachers.”

Joe Manby Ltd. Rob Chapman

Family-owned event services supplier - which this year celebrates 40 years in business - Joe Manby Limited has appointed a new designer.

Rob Chapman joins the Harrogate-based company after graduating from Leeds Metropolitan University with a degree in design.

Rob said: “After working for a supermarket group and gigging around the country with my band, I’m looking forward to applying the knowledge and skills gained from both my degree and industry internships to my role at Joe Manby Limited.”

Richard Manby, company director, said: “We are delighted to have Rob joining us. His fresh ideas and enthusiasm will be a great asset and he is a highly beneficial addition to our design team.”

CDS Energy Services Ltd, Glenn Sibbick

CDS Energy Services Ltd has appointed Glenn Sibbick as business development director in a bid to strengthen its position in the sector as it looks to continue its rapid growth.

Stark Brooks

Recruitment firm Stark Brooks has taken on four consultants in Manchester to meet growing demand in its key markets.

They are focusing on recruiting for accountancy and finance posts in commerce and industry across the north west.

The new quartet are Matt Tate, aged 24, who has joined from The SF Group, graduate trainee Jack Hampson, 22, school leaver Adam Sweeney, 19, and Jessie Parkin, 20, who has joined on a one-year placement from Manchester Metropolitan University. 

Gron Ffoulkes-Davies, chief executive of Stark Brooks, said the appointments follow a strong first-half of 2014 for the firm and demonstrate its confidence for the future.

He added: “As the economic recovery gathers pace, we are seeing increased activity in our core markets and we require additional staff to meet this growing demand. 

“We are committed to nurturing young talent, and Adam is our first school-leaver recruit. 

“We expect to add more staff during the remainder of the year in our Manchester and Leeds offices, in line with the rising demand we are experiencing.“

Weber Shandwick, Owen LaBeck

Weber Shandwick Manchester – one of the world’s leading global public relations firms – has bolstered its senior team, recruiting Owen LaBeck as creative director.

Owen will work across the agency’s client portfolio to help create engaging and inspiring content, extending Weber Shandwick’s focus on award-winning creative ideas.

Jo Leah, managing director and chair English regions & Wales, said: “Our industry is constantly changing. We are entering a new era where creativity is paramount and agencies must adopt a 360 approach to stay relevant. Brands want ideas that drive quality content and work across multiple touch-points.

“We want to build a team of the future that caters to these needs. Owen is here to pioneer new possibilities and to underline that creativity is a business priority for us – we’re delighted to have him on board.“

Citypress, Oonagh Spence

Citypress, the integrated communications consultancy, has appointed Oonagh Spence as account director within its consumer practice.

Spence, who will be based in the agency’s head office in Manchester, joins from Havas PR UK where she was responsible for creative campaigning on behalf of brands such Greggs and Pets at Home. Prior to Havas, Spence worked at Rain Communications with brands such as McArthurGlen, John Lewis and the New West End Company.

The appointment follows a sustained period of success for the agency, which, over the past six months has announced big name client-wins with the likes of Coca-Cola Enterprises, The Post Office and Pilkington UK, along with the launch of a new London office.

Headquartered in Manchester, Citypress is one of the UK’s largest consultancies based outside of London. Its 60-strong team operates from locations in Manchester, London, Birmingham, Edinburgh and Bristol. 

Rhian Hawkins, Laura Brereton, Owen McKenna and Jack Stephenson

Harrison Drury, Rhian Hawkins, Laura Brereton and Jack Stephenson

North West commercial law firm Harrison Drury has recruited three new trainees as part of its latest intake of legal ‘apprentices’.

Rhian Hawkins, Laura Brereton and Jack Stephenson have secured training contracts with the firm and will become qualified solicitors after two years of working with its various legal departments.

Owen McKenna, a director at Harrison Drury, said: “Our training programme allows us to attract and develop some of the brightest legal minds in the region. This talent continually refreshes the firm and gives people the chance to take forward their career by working on a wide range of legal matters.

“We have offered training contracts in each of the last six years and this year’s intake of three trainees reflects our desire to continue growing the firm.“

IoD, Deborah Ascott-Jones, Richard Douglas and Karl Seed

The Institute of Directors (IoD) North West is expanding its team with the recent appointments of Deborah Ascott-Jones, Richard Douglas and Karl Seed.

Rachel Smith, regional director for the IoD North West, comments: “The IoD North West is celebrating a year of change. We have recently moved into new prime city centre premises in Manchester and we will also be appointing a new Regional Chair shortly.

“The expansion of our NW team demonstrates our commitment to assist the hands on development of regional businesses and economic growth.“

Lambert Smith Hampton, Colette Henshaw

Commercial property consultancy, Lambert Smith Hampton has appointed Colette Henshaw, as associate director, to its Rating division in the Manchester office.

Colette has joined from CBRE, London and brings a wealth of experience having worked with an extensive portfolio of corporate clients across office, industrial and retail including Lend Lease, M & G Real Estate, Prêt a Manger Ltd and HSBC.

Abid Jaffry, Head of Office in Manchester said: “We welcome Colette into our Rating team especially with the experience she brings from her impressive London client base.

"This appointment is part of an ongoing recruitment programme for Manchester and expansion strategy for LSH. Our new recruits are bringing experience, ideas and new opportunities - this is very positive for LSH and our clients.“

CBRE Manchester, Matthew Stott

The Manchester office of CBRE has appointed Matthew Stott as graduate surveyor within its Asset Services team.

With a degree in Urban Land Economics and an MSc in Real Estate Finance, Matthew worked in Dubai before his most recent position at The Mansion Group.

Matthew will be working with CBRE’s North West team on a number of high profile projects including Birchwood Park. 

Image source: MarkDoliner

Almost 60% of London SMEs are currently trading overseas, according to a survey by Avanta Serviced Office Group, London office provider, in partnership with London First.

Over 200 of small business customers were questioned in the Capital. Of those businesses trading internationally, the vast majority are exporting, with 94 per cent saying they sell overseas.

When asked what countries they are trading with, the Eurozone comes top, with 48%, followed by other EU countries on 29%.

However many are looking further afield, with almost a quarter (23%) doing business in the Middle East, while just slightly fewer (22%) are trading with Australia and New Zealand.

Eastern Europe (16%), India (16%) and China aren’t far behind (15%), showing that the new ‘superpowers’ are also drawing in London entrepreneurs.

Alan Pepper, CEO of Avanta, said: “Trading overseas is a fantastic way of growing a business, opening up entirely new markets and opportunities for ambitious entrepreneurs. British SMEs have traditionally been cautious about selling their products outside the UK however our survey shows that small businesses in London are now crossing borders in their droves. And what better base than London, arguably the most international city in the world, from which to trade.”

Baroness Jo Valentine, Chief Executive of London First said: “Since London merchants set sail for the East Indies over three hundred years ago, our capital has been one of the world’s leading exporters. I am delighted that many smaller businesses in London are helping to maintain this global position today, and are reaping the economic benefits of trading beyond our borders.”

A trade mission from Jacksonville, USA is visiting Liverpool to discuss establishing a two-way working relationship between the cities.

The delegation, including the Jacksonville Mayor Alvin Brown and the President of its City Council, will take part in meetings organised by Liverpool Vision and JAXUSA, the economic development division of the JAX Chamber.

The group will meet city representatives as well as leading private sector figures, particularly those working in port-related industries.

The trip comes after delegates from Jacksonville attended the International Festival for Business 2014. Impressed by Liverpool’s business outlook, they arranged a meeting with Liverpool Vision’s investment team at the IFB Hub at Mann Island, and the trade visit was planned.

It coincides with the Jacksonville Jaguars’ appearance at Wembley in an NFL game, which the delegation is hoping will bring increased exposure and profile to the city.

Max Steinberg, chief executive of Liverpool Vision, said: “The delegation from Jacksonville is coming because they have seen first-hand the vibrancy around businesses in Liverpool, and want to establish an effective working relationship between the cities.

“The U.S. is a key target for us; whether it’s Marketing Liverpool attracting more leisure visitors, Liverpool Convention Bureau bringing more American conferences to the city or relationships encouraging inward investment such as this, managed by Liverpool Vision.

 “Jacksonville is a city which shares a lot of features with Liverpool, and we’re looking forward to maximising these opportunities to work together in the near future.“

“Jacksonville looks forward to building a productive partnership with Liverpool,“ said Mayor Alvin Brown.  “We are both great port cities and I believe there’s a world of opportunity for us to grow our trade and investment together.   

“Not only is it an honour for us to visit Liverpool, but we were also privileged to host that most distinguished son of Liverpool, Paul McCartney, when he came to Jacksonville last week for an exciting concert.“

Image source: photologue_np

Members of the London Enterprise Panel (LEP) have launched a £70million borough-led programme which will create more than 7,000 apprenticeships.

The scheme will create thousands of training opportunities and boost economic growth in the capital.

LEP, the strategic body responsible for regeneration, employment and skills, approved a package of proposals from all 32 London boroughs and the City of London for stimulating jobs and growth at their meeting last week.

The plans will see 130,000 square metres of public space regenerated; 180,000 square metres of workspace developed; more than 6,600 Londoners helped into work and get 720 businesses started.

The projects form part of the LEP New Homes Bonus Programme which will be funded through a grant paid by central government to councils when there is an increase in homes in their local areas.

The initiatives, which will start in April 2015, have been developed by boroughs, in partnership with the London Enterprise Panel, the Greater London Authority and London Councils.

The Mayor of London and chairman of the London Enterprise Panel, Boris Johnson, said: “This important scheme will mean that building vital new homes also provides our boroughs with funding to be used to create thousands of new jobs, improve infrastructure and boost skills across the capital.

"It is a good example of team work between the boroughs and the London Enterprise Panel, which will help to ensure London remains the best place to live, start a business and to invest.”

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Business leader, entrepreneur and one of the original members of the BBC’s Dragons’ Den Doug Richard will be the next Chancellor of Teesside University.

He will take over the role from Lord Sawyer of Darlington who has been Chancellor since 2005 and whose term of office has concluded.

Doug is an entrepreneur, investor and government advisor known for his award winning work in entrepreneur development in the UK and internationally.

He starred as a dragon in the first two series of Dragons’ Den and holds the Queen’s Award for Enterprise Promotion and the award for Enterprise Educator of the Year from the National Council on Graduate Employment.

He is also the founder of School for Start Ups, an organisation which has provided accelerated business instruction to over 30,000 business owners.

Doug Richard has led on two independent reviews which resulted in influential reports, ‘Small Business and Government’ (2008), commissioned by the Shadow Cabinet and the ‘Richard Review of Apprenticeships’ (2012), for the Department for Business, Innovation and Skills.

He is expected to be installed as Teesside University Chancellor in early 2015.

Doug said: “Teesside is a business facing university with a real focus on innovation, commercialisation and entrepreneurship.

“The progress it has made in recent years and the continual investment in new facilities and buildings make it an exciting proposition for students and business partners.

“I am both excited and honoured to become the next Chancellor of this institution and hope to use my experience and expertise to build on the fantastic work that has gone before me and guide the University through its next exciting chapter.

“I would also like to extend my thanks to outgoing Chancellor Lord Sawyer of Darlington, as well as the Board of Governors, for their recommendation and the support they have given me so far.“

Lord Sawyer, said: “The years I have spent as Chancellor of Teesside University have been some of the most rewarding of my career. It is with great sadness, but also great pride, that I step down.

“I am sure that Doug Richard will be an outstanding Chancellor. He is influential and well known as an active business leader and successful entrepreneur.

“His national connections and ability to provide inspirational guidance and advice will be an asset to the University.“

Chairman of the Board of Governors at Teesside University, Alastair MacColl, said: “The board is delighted that Doug Richard has accepted our invitation and we look forward to welcoming him as our new Chancellor.

"Doug is joining Teesside University at an exciting time as we make a series of major investments, launch a number of pioneering initiatives and build on a momentum that is making a fantastic student experience even better."

North East entrepreneurs Suzanne Hutton and Mark Hodgson have opened a continental style cafe Staiths Café Bar, in Gateshead, with funding support from NatWest.

The business is to be located on Autumn Drive, in what was once a housing developers’ sales officer.

In addition to selling coffees, teas, wine, beer, sandwiches, wraps and other light snacks, Staiths Café Bar will sell freshly made breads and homemade jams which has been made by local suppliers.

Mark has a background in catering as he established his own catering business four years ago while Suzanne works within arts and culture.

Three new jobs are to be created over the next 12 months in the café.

Funding for the opening was obtained by NatWest Relationship Manager Gemma Watters.

Suzanne said: “The opening of the café is really a life-long ambition of ours, especially Mark. We sold our house so we could buy the building that we are going to run the café in.

“There is accommodation upstairs so we will be literally living and breathing the business.

“We want to create a relaxing environment and make the business a hub for people who live in the area.

“We hope to develop various cultural activities and events and see its potential as a multi functional space, similar to cafes in cities such as Berlin.

“Gemma has been amazing to work with. We have been working on this since February and it has been a rollercoaster to get everything finalised but Gemma has been with us every step of the way.

“She has given us great support and found the right funding options to support our business.

“I was delighted to support Suzanne and Mark as they open their café. Their commitment to their local community is evident in their business plan and I wish them every success for the future.“

Image source: flazingo_photos

The Digital Catapult, a national centre set up to rapidly advance the UK’s best digital ideas, has today announced that it intends to appoint an LEP (Local Enterprise Partnership) led consortia in the North East to establish one of three local Digital Catapult Centres.

Due to open in March 2015, the Digital Catapult Centre North East & Tees Valley will be located in Sunderland and will provide a physical space for startups and small businesses in the creative and technology sectors to develop and showcase their digital ideas and products.

They will also be able to use it to connect and collaborate with larger businesses, universities and public sector organisations.

With a united aim of generating thousands of new jobs, driving innovation at a local level and creating millions in linked investment and future funding by 2025, the three local centres will support the London King’s Cross Digital Catapult Centre which was opened today by Ed Vaizey MP, Minister for the Digital Economy.

The Digital Catapult Centre North East & Tees Valley will host a high bandwidth connection linking it with two additional centres planned for Brighton and Bradford and also with the Digital Catapult Centre London.

The North East based consortia led by the North East LEP and Tees Valley LEP was selected following an open call for partners in July 2014 and chosen from 17 LEP and local consortia bids involving more than 50 business, local authority, SME and university partners.

The project will be led by Sunderland Software City on behalf the North East LEP and Tees Valley Unlimited.

The consortia will focus specifically on the controlled delivery and security of data so as to increase information sharing amongst businesses and organisations and to open up new business models and revenue streams.

Other key partners involved include Newcastle University, Durham University, University of Sunderland and Teesside University.

Activity will run until March 2018, and the consortia will also be tasked with initiating and collaborating with the Digital Catapult on a range of innovative projects, designed to be accessible to start-up and SME businesses to use and learn from.

Tasks will also include creating links between universities and the local business community as well as creating networks that enable university led R&D in the Digital Catapult challenge areas to be converted into commercial market opportunities, which can be prototyped and piloted by start-ups and SMEs.

Minister for the Digital Economy, Ed Vaizey MP, said “It is an exciting time to be a tech business in the UK. Our digital economy is already one of the strongest markets in the world, valued at more than £100 billion.

“Growth areas including the Internet of Things and digital creative industries are opening up a range of new opportunities for companies in the sector.“

“The new Digital Catapult Centre will provide a thriving, state-of-the-art hub for some of the country’s most innovative digital companies and entrepreneurs.“

CEO of the Digital Catapult, Neil Crockett, said: “The truth is the most exciting digital innovation is happening in local communities, like those across the North East and Tees Valley, who are bringing together new ideas, businesses, universities and the public sector.

“As a national centre, it is important we support and collaborate with these local innovation communities who are doing amazing things in our focus areas.  

“The open call has only reinforced our view that there are many brilliant digital innovation communities across the UK, and we hope it is the start to building a whole range of exciting future relationships.“  

Leading performance psychology firm, i2i, is gearing up to take more clients ‘from impossible to inevitable’ following investment in new, larger premises in Preston.

Established in 2008 and leveraging more than 20 years’ experience of creating high-performance mindsets and delivering successful outcomes around the world, i2i has a portfolio of clients that includes globally-recognised sports teams and blue chip companies.

The company’s investment in larger offices at Nelson Court Business Centre is part of an expansion strategy that will help it build its client base, which includes O2, British Airways, Royal Mail, Premier Inn, golfer Darren Clarke and Wigan Athletic.

The move follows a number of impressive client wins and projects over the past year, including IKANO, Direct Line Group and United Utilities.

Michael Finnigan, founder of i2i, said: “From sports teams and individuals that need to adopt psychological strategies to give them a winning edge, to corporates that need help with commercial matters as diverse as recruitment selection, customer service excellence and cultural change, demand for our expertise is growing.

“As well as motivating and improving performance, many organisations are now turning to i2i to help them build winning teams.

“Our AVA products help organizations and business leaders to understand their people. We also use AVA extensively to recruit or promote the right person into a role, building better teams and reducing the high costs of recruitment and staff turnover.

“We have invested significantly in the AVA over the last 12 months, developing new and existing products that enable us to effectively profile an organization on both an individual and group level. We see this as a major growth area for 2015.“

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Kohli Ventures, global investors in innovative ideas, disruptive technology and dynamic businesses, announces that it has opened an office in London, which will now serve as the Group’s Head Office.

The office, which is in Mayfair, will be Kohli Ventures’ seventh office around the world; the other offices are located in Abu Dhabi, Buenos Aires, Delhi, Miami, San Jose and Vancouver.

Kohli Ventures’ role is focused on mentoring a new generation of entrepreneurs from emerging markets such as Latin America, Africa, the Middle East and India.  

Tej Kohli, founder and chairman of Kohli Ventures, said: “When you look at the vast majority of the great success stories in technology over the last decade, the average age of those entrepreneurs has been 23!  

"We believe that youth is the future but that there is a significant amount of youth talent in the emerging markets, ready to make a major impact.  

"We are therefore focused on supporting young entrepreneurs with sparkling innovations.  

"Our new Head Office in London will provide a great bridge between East and West from which we can support our investee companies whether through IPOs, trade sales or simply by connecting them to important industry contacts.“