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Leeds based public sector recruitment firm GatenbySanderson, has announced the completion of a management buy-out of the business from founder Graham Goodwin.

The buyout was funded by Primary Capital, a leading provider of private equity in the UK, management and Yorkshire Bank.

Joint managing partners, Mark Turner and Martin Tucker, will continue to lead the business, supported by the existing board members, David Kemsley, senior partner for interim leadership, Helen Oates, chief operating officer and Sam Ellis, Marketing Director. 

Martin Tucker commented, “As a market leading business that has grown significantly in the last few years, we are delighted to complete this deal and have the opportunity to realise further expansion, be that greater sector depth, broader public services or rolling out new products as part of our technical innovation.

"We are incredibly fortunate, across the business, in having a very talented team with a heartfelt desire to grow faster and further.

"This deal puts that ambition directly into our own hands and we intend to make the most of it. Finding new talent is our first priority.“

Graham Goodwin stated, “It has been a fantastic journey establishing GatenbySanderson as a leader in its field, and one that emerged stronger from recession, but when a successful business achieves a certain size, then it’s good to recognise the time for someone else to pick up the reins and lead the business to its bigger potential.

"I’m very proud of the business we have built together and even prouder of the team I leave behind”

Alistair Armstrong and Oliver Melliss led the deal for Primary Capital.  Alistair Armstrong continued, “GatenbySanderson is an excellent example of a truly differentiated executive resourcing firm.  The business’s relentless focus on quality, its strong team-driven culture and impressive proprietary technology produce consistently outstanding results for its clients.  Management have identified some compelling areas for further investment and innovation and we very much look forward to working with them to help the business achieve its ambitious growth plans”.

A team from Deloitte corporate finance advisory, led by Katie Folwell-Davies, advised Primary Capital on the acquisition. 

Marcus Archer, partner at Clearwater International, who advised the shareholders of GatenbySanderson said: “Primary Capital’s investment in GatenbySanderson will allow the experienced management team the opportunity to explore new growth channels.

"With Primary’s expertise, the company will provide the perfect home for GatenbySanderson and we expect them to have continued success.

“Recruitment in the UK is undergoing a boom. With 69% of firms in 2014 reporting an increase in net fee income, recruitment has never been more attractive for private equity investment.“

GatenbySanderson’s management team was advised by law firm Gordons, led by James Fawcett, corporate finance advisers Sentio Partners, led by Andy Miller, and Deloitte’s tax team, led by Stephen Hall

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Small businesses in the North West are being offered the chance to receive £2,000 towards a series of growth advice workshops and one-to-one mentoring support through the new Small Business Charter Growth Vouchers Scheme.

The programme provides match funding for SMEs to pay for and access high quality leadership and management advice.

Launched by the Small Business Charter, the scheme is aimed at driving local economic growth through business school support for entrepreneurs and small businesses.

It is being delivered by a consortium of six top business schools.

The workshops will cover topics such as a review of growth opportunities; cash flow and general financial management; marketing strategies for small businesses; raising the finance for growth; and planning next steps.

Working together, Nottingham Business School and Nottingham University Business School will cover Nottinghamshire and the surrounding counties, and the consortium will collaborate to deliver sessions in other locations such as Leeds and Manchester.

To be eligible, applicants must have a business registered in England, have between one and 20 employees, have an annual turnover of less than €4 million or £3.2 million, own 75% or more of their business and have been actively selling goods and/or services for at least 12 months.

Diagnostic events will take place in early December and January and workshops during February and March 2015.

Following the diagnostic events, half of the participating businesses will be chosen at random to receive a voucher worth 50% of the cost of the growth programme.

Those allocated the Growth Vouchers will receive £2,000 match funding towards the cost of attending ten half day workshops and will also receive up to 10 hours of expert business mentoring.

At the end of the programme, businesses will be invited to attend a national event in April 2015, where they will have the opportunity to network with like-minded growing firms  from across the UK.

Head of executive education and corporate relations at Nottingham business school, Alison Smith,  said “This is a new and exciting opportunity for businesses to access valuable and practical advice at a fraction of the cost.

“The workshops, expert mentoring and networking opportunities will give them an unprecedented platform to really kick-start the growth of their business.“

Image source: Rocío Lara

New and growing businesses across the North West will benefit from a boost in the way that companies gain finance.

It has been announced that both Manchester and Liverpool will be among the very first cities across the UK to have their own crowdfunding centres.

Plans for the nationwide network of Venture Funding Hubs were revealed at a crowdfunding conference in Sheffield today.

Organisers of the deep impact conference revealed that Sheffield will be the first of the Venture Funding Hubs to begin operation in January next year, followed by Manchester, Liverpool, Leeds, Newcastle, Edinburgh and Glasgow.

Each of the centres will provide free expert advice to businessmen and women looking to start or expand their companies.

The announcement comes just days after the publication of a report suggesting that the total amount of crowdfunding or ‘peer-to-peer lending’ in the UK this year was expected to reach £1.74 billion.

The study by Cambridge University and Nesta, a charity which promotes innovation, also forecast that the domestic crowdfunding market would more than double to £4.4 billion by the end of 2015.

Deputy Prime Minister, Nick Clegg MP,said: "I’ve made clear my own ambition to double the number of tech jobs in the North to help create a stronger economy. To make this happen access to finance is critical, so that we can see start-ups and growth within existing tech businesses.

“I would urge investors - big or small - to back this great initiative when the crowdfund goes live.

"Not only will there be great investment opportunities, but it will be a chance to help our local tech talent create a Northern Tech Hub to rival Berlin, New York, or Shanghai.”

Image source: KellyB.

Brighton university’s £3 million Green Growth Platform has already benefitted almost 260 companies, just five months after its launch.

The businesses that sign up to the platform’s business growth services, can benefit from a range of support including one-to-one business coaching, events and networking, innovation/research and development and skills and training workshops.

The platform is leading a number of innovation and research and development projects, to develop new products and services that will contribute to a greener economy.

One example is Waterblade, a new device that fits to a tap and reduces water consumption by up to twice as much as a standard eco aerating nozzle.

The platform has helped inventor Nigel Bamford go from initial idea to exploring entry to market.

A Green Growth Platform MSc module has been developed with Dr Helen Walker, Lecturer, in the School of Environment and Technology, which will give students the opportunity to take part in an accredited placement with member businesses.

Image source: Martin Pettitt

Global workspace provider Regus has unveiled four new business centres to support companies of all sizes as they grow.

The centres in Blackfriars, Regents Park, High Street Kensington and Broadgate bring Regus’ London portfolio to 85, and offer a variety of high specification, flexible space and business services.

Typical products include a drop-in business lounge, private offices, meeting rooms, Virtual Offices and administrative support.

Kalfus Properties, a boutique property consultancy, is a customer at the new centre in Kensington.

Director Andrew Kalfus said: “We were looking for a location and facility that was both convenient and welcoming for clients to visit. We were attracted to the prominent High Street location and the fact that we could just move in and get to work.

“But the greatest benefit is flexibility – we can easily scale up the business, adding extra desk space when we need it, or use meeting rooms on demand. You don’t have that reassurance with your own premises.“

Steve Purdy, UK managing director at Regus said: “This is an exciting time for us. We are delighted to reach the 85 centre mark in London, demonstrating our commitment to leading the global trend towards flexible working.

“Flexible and drop-in workspace allow companies to remain agile, work wherever it suits them and keep overheads down, saving an estimated 60% on traditional property costs.

“Regus’ customer base is unique in that it spans so many industry sectors and business types, from freelancers and sole traders to fast-growth SMEs and large corporations. However, we are seeing particular demand from London’s tech and digital sector, and already count more than half of Tech City’s ‘Future Fifty’ companies as customers, alongside Google, LinkedIn, Amazon and Twitter.“

Northern entrepreneur Sean Garrie has launched a new independent gift shop, UpSide Down Presents, in the heart of Newcastle’s historic downtown.

Shop owner Sean has a First Class BSc (Hons) Internet Computing degree, and has spent the last 5 years helping other businesses grow online.

The gift shop sells a range of presents, mainly locally sourced such as Geordie candles, plaques, prints and cards, even locally made dog food.

There are lots of non-Geordie related goods too, with festive examples including Christmas decorations, rare unusual stocking fillers for those hard to buy for and more.

However, UpSide Down Presents is not just a gift shop. The business is now fast becoming known for its original card range.

Moreover, the company also sells advertising for local businesses and is making online orderingavailable shortly too.

Sean hopes to soon take on an apprentice to help, and is already planning ahead for Valentines Day, Mother’s Day, Easter and beyond.

With an UpSide down Christmas tree and window display, the local business is an attractive prospect for passing trade.

Plus, with a handmade lego Angel of the North donning the tip of the UpSide Christmas Tree, this alone is enough reason to visit 61 Side.

Sean Gerrie told Bdaily: "Going from webmaster to shop owner may seem a big leap, but there are lots of transferable essences for both offline and online businesses.

“I was looking to sell tangible products online and for an office space, the unit in Newcastle provided me the best of both worlds, a gateway to establish online and within the real world parameters so to speak."

"I can’t compete on sheer scale and size, both physically or financially, so stocking highly original cards and creative gifts is what makes the shop tick many people’s shopping lists".

"Many think it’s quite counter-intuitive to open a shop first nowadays, but I feel getting it right on the ground is important, then building online is a great way to make it work as eventually revenue to sustain the business is coming from multiple channels, with a more natural fit for everyone as well."

The shop is located towards the bottom of Dean Street, near the castle Keep and Tyne Bridge, or, "just doon Dean street next to wor Castle Keep and Tyne Bridge" as Sean described!

UpSide Down Presents are on Facebook, Twitter and have their own website: http://61side.co.uk/.

A budding entrepreneur has created a new brand of hair extensions and one-of-a-kind products for salons which is predicted to make a turnover of £220k for 2014.

The business now employs 6 people and cost an initial £65k to start up.

Kelly Muirhead, founder of Miss Lady Lox presents… My New Hair, launched the range after she spotted a gap in the market for premium, natural, quality extensions.

Many big name salons and hair stockists already supplying the extensions.

In addition to her range of extensions, Kelly has developed products that are specifically designed to work with hair extensions, including a light, dry Citrus Oil with two more products to follow soon – a Conditioning Hair Milk Spray and a Back to New Silicone Spray.

Kelly, said:  “I decided I wanted to create my own bespoke collection of extensions that women could rely on.

“The feedback from hairdressers and clients has been amazing and we’re adding the new range to more salons and stockists all the time.“

“I’m excited to introduce the whole range of products and eager to develop My New Hair further.“

Hove children’s fashion label Bonnie Baby has secured a deal worth £200k a year to supply several of the country’s high end boutiques in South Korea.

Hove-based Bonnie Baby, which was set up by acclaimed designer Tracey Samuel in 2005, won the contract after visiting in 2012 with Government export body UK Trade & Investment (UKTI).

The firm, which sell beautiful British designed clothing for babies and children, was created by Tracey after she was inspired by her first child; Alice Bee.

Gareth Griffiths, director, said: “We began to get enquiries from across Asia in 2010, so we approached UKTI for help. Asia is now a huge market for us with 50% of our turnover from sells in Hong Kong, mainland China and Japan each year.

“We opened our flagship store in Hong Kong in 2012 and we now have four points of sales in Shanghai and Beijing. Hong Kong was the natural gateway to mainland China.

“Our products are mainly sold via high end boutiques although a large percentage of our goods are sold online at www.bonniebaby.co.uk.“

“We arranged meetings with several potential customers in Seoul and most came back to us almost straight away, wanting to work with us.

“After an extremely successful first season we have finalised orders worth £200,000 a year. This means we can continue to invest in more skilled staff from the local area.

“The British brand and heritage is extremely popular in South Korea. They like the quality and playful designs. They trust it and customers aspire to buy British brands.“

A 17 year old entrepreneur from Stocksbridge in Sheffield, has received a cash boost and recognition from Deputy PM Nick Clegg after being shortlisted in the Edge Challenge.

Jack Crofts, 17, a Peter Jones Enterprise Academy student at The Sheffield College, has developed a company specialising in Vicuna luxury wool products. 

He submitted a detailed business proposal including financial and marketing plans, alongside hopefuls from all over the country.

Six individual entries were shortlisted in the Edge Challenge, alongside three teams, and they were all invited to pitch their ideas to a panel in London. The final three individuals and two teams came to The Skills Show in Birmingham on Thursday November 13th.

Deputy Prime Minister and Sheffield Hallam MP Nick Clegg awarded Jack his £1,250 prize, which will go towards developing his business.

Jack said: "I’m really excited to have been involved in the Edge Challenge and coming second is a real achievement. I am so passionate about my product and this opportunity will help me turn my business idea into a reality.

"Meeting so many like-minded people has been very inspiring and made me determined to succeed as an entrepreneur."

Julie Byrne, executive director, The Sheffield College, added: "Jack is an excellent role model. I would like to congratulate him on the success and inspirational progress he has made since starting the Peter Jones Enterprise Academy course with us. 

"We have a strong reputation for enterprise education offering our students advice and support to develop and launch their start-up ideas.

"The enterprise skills they develop enhance their future prospects enabling them to set up a business, get into a career or move onto university."

• ”1.4m people can’t be ignored” North East property expert tells zero-hour rent ban boss

A leading property expert has gone head to head on national radio with the landlord banning tenants on zero-hours contracts - calling his decision “draconian” and “narrow-minded”

Ajay Jagota of North East-based sales and lettings business KIS last week blasted millionaire landlord Fergus Wilson’s plans to reject any tenant without guaranteed minimum hours of pay.

The two debated the issue on BBC Radio 5 Live’s Afternoon Edition with Dan Walker and Sarah Brett, with an unapologetic Wilson arguing “face facts… somebody has to go without”.

The debate came as research from the Residential Landlords Association showed that 62% of landlords would not let properties to tenants on zero-hour contracts, which are now used by 1 in 10 employers.

1.4m people in the UK are now employed on zero hours contracts, mainly the young, women and the over 65s. The number has doubled in recent years.

Speaking during the debate, Ajay, founder and Chief Executive Officer of the UK’s most innovative sales and lettings business said:

“We’ve just come out of a recession and I.4m people isn’t a small section of society, it’s a large section of society. To ostracise them is draconian.

“1.4m people can’t be ignored.

“Finding the right tenant isn’t just about the ability to afford the rent. There are whole lot of issues to be considered”

Ajay described Wilson’s argument that insurers would not underwrite the rent of tenants on zero hour contracts as “narrow-minded”.

 “Go back to your insurance company and explore the market like we did. There are insurance companies out there that will”, he advised.

Speaking after the debate, Ajay said:

“Both myself and Fergus Wilson are businessmen taking business decisions, I’m just a businessman who thinks that ignoring customers is foolish.

“The rise of zero hour contracts poses a problem for landlords and lettings agents, but you don’t solve that problem by burying your head in the sand. You solve it like we did, by working with insurers to develop a policy which guarantees rent from your properties no matter what the circumstances.

“Shutting our doors to millions of customers isn’t just financial lunacy, if it looks like we’re dragging ourselves back to the bad old days of blanket bans for certain types of tenants we’re doing our industry’s image no good either.“

KIS manage properties for landlords in every corner of the North East from branches across Tyne and Wear, and were named Letting Agent of the Year in the 2013 Landlord and Letting Awards. The firm expanded into residential sales in 2014.

The property firm is famous for being the first letting agent in the UK to abolish deposits, replacing them with a one-of-a-kind landlord insurance policy offering guaranteed rent, deposit replacement, legal assistance and round the clock third party emergency home repairs.

KPMG

KPMG has made seven senior promotions within its Leeds office as the firm prepares for a landmark year.

The newly-promoted directors include Rashpal Khangura and Claire Needham in audit; Chris Sheryn in management consulting and James Lumb and Helen Roxburgh in the transactions and restructuring practice.

KPMG’s staff in Leeds are set to move into the firm’s new Sovereign Square development in 2015, which follows the completion of its national Innovation and Solutions Centre at Broad Gate, which has created a further 200 new roles in the city.

Chris Hearld, Northern chairman and office senior partner at KPMG in Leeds, said: “In Leeds, we have built one of KPMG’s largest practice areas outside of London, which is home to some of the firm’s most experienced and talented professionals, and are committed to growing that offering in the city and across the North of England.

“These promotions recognise the clear commitment we have to expanding our operations in the region, but also the hard work and performance of our team in delivering exceptional services to our clients.”

Leigh Davenport from the firm’s tax division and Marcus Tyldsley from audit have also been named as directors. The pair will work alongside recently-appointed partner Ian Beaumont, who has 25 years’ experience in the Yorkshire market, to support KPMG’s offering to privately-owned businesses.

Ian Beaumont, partner and enterprise lead at KPMG in Yorkshire, said: “I’m excited to have joined such a high quality team at KPMG, which has a long and successful history in the region, and congratulate the new directors on their promotions.

“In such a rapidly changing environment, Yorkshire businesses are increasingly looking to advisers for expert support in achieving their growth ambitions.

"It is the perfect time to be developing our proposition to private enterprise, which is an essential part of the Northern economy and has long been at the heart of what we do.” 

Irwin Mitchell, Sarah Smith

The Sheffield office of national law firm Irwin Mitchell has boosted its specialist financial crime expertise with the appointment of Sarah Smith as an associate solicitor in its Regulatory and Criminal Investigations team.

Sarah Smith said: “I am absolutely delighted to have joined Irwin Mitchell.

“It is already clear from my short time here that the firm is forward thinking and keen to push forward to further success. I have no doubt that working at an ambitious firm will not only broaden my skills but also help me to learn new disciplines.“

Team partner Paul Haycock added: “The addition of Sarah to our team provides new skills and expertise which will undoubtedly help us grow our Regulatory offering further.

“Her appointment is further sign of our determination to continue to develop our Business Legal Services team in Yorkshire and continue to provide the best possible service to our clients.“

JWPCreers, Alastair Byrne

Taxation specialist Alastair Byrne has been appointed partner at Yorkshire accountants and business advisers, JWPCreers, in the firm’s second promotion to its senior team in four months.

Alastair Byrne, the firm’s head of tax planning, qualified as a chartered accountant in London in 1987 and the following year moved to Leeds where he worked with national practices before joining JWPCreers as a senior manager in 2008.

Alastair Byrne says “I am excited by my new role and the challenges it brings. My appointment emphasises JWPCreers’ commitment to innovation and supporting new creative businesses which started with our move to York Science Park four years ago.“

JWPCreers managing partner, Nigel Clemit, says: “Alastair Byrne’s partnership promotion, which follows that of Jill Campbell, and our expansion into more office space and recruitment of several staff this summer, is further evidence of our strength in depth as we face growing demand for our services from a wide range of local businesses.“

Express Data

Local communications and network infrastructure specialist Express Data has strengthened its business with the appointment of three new executive directors to its board to aid its next phase of growth and expansion.

Joining managing director and founder of Express Data Positive Networks, Simon Wilson, is John O’Neil as chairman, Andrew Metcalf as sales director and Simon Hersh as financial director.

The business which has seen year on year growth over the last five years, has a current turnover of £3.1 million which it aims to triple by 2018. 

Simon Wilson, managing director commented, “This is a really exciting time for the business. These appointments provide a rich mix of board and senior-level experience which will be invaluable in helping to grow the business as we move forward. 

"We have had a really successful 2014 and have once again seen growth."

Watson Burton LLP, Caroline Rye

Watson Burton LLP welcomes Caroline Rye as an associate as she returns from 10 months working for one of the firm’s key clients, Hiscox Insurance, as part of the in-house legal professional indemnity claims team.

Caroline has worked for Watson Burton for eight years after joining as a trainee solicitor in 2006.

Caroline said: “I am grateful to both Watson Burton and Hiscox that I have been given this opportunity with one of our leading clients – I thoroughly enjoyed the experience. 

"I am also delighted with my promotion.  Watson Burton’s PII group is one of the most successful in the north and this is a reflection of the team’s ethos.

Richard Palmer, head of PII at Watson Burton, said: “As a firm we are committed to recognising the talent and hard work of our staff and we take great pride investing in their professional development.

"Caroline has been with the firm for a number of years and has worked extremely hard for both us and our clients. She thoroughly deserves this promotion and is a real asset to our team.“ 

York’s CHOCOLATE Story, Alicia McSweeney

Visitor attraction York’s CHOCOLATE Story has announced the appointment of new groups, corporate and education Sales executive Alicia McSweeney.

Alicia joins the team with experience from events and travel specialists NYS Corporate and tourism industry knowledge from York’s Castle Museum. 

Alicia McSweeney said: “York’s CHOCOLATE Story has a fantastic groups, corporate and education offer, delivered by a brilliant team. I look forward to working with them to drive sales and maintain and develop relationships with our portfolio of clients across Yorkshire.”

Nikki Jacobs, general manager at York’s CHOCOLATE Story said:“It’s a pleasure to have Alicia on board. She is already proving to be a great asset within the team.”

Ison Harrison Solicitors, Sean Gallagher

Leeds law firm, Ison Harrison Solicitors has extended its Commercial Property operation by appointing Sean Gallagher to swell the existing team to six.

Jonathan Wearing, managing partner, Ison Harrison, said: "We strongly believe that our team delivers just what businesses, families, individuals and are looking for.    

"We act for a broader base of clients than any other firm in Leeds, including commercial clients who need corporate advice and support, criminal and family clients eligible for legal aid and private individuals who are moving home or are planning for the future. I am very happy to welcome Sean to our legal world.”

SM Commercial, Matthew Walsh

Leeds-based law firm SM Commercial is aiming to grow its commercial and residential property development practice with the appointment of Matthew Walsh as an associate.

Deborah Powell, Head of SM Commercial adds: “Matthew is well known in the market here in Yorkshire and will be a valuable addition to our team.

"He has a great reputation developed over 15  years in the business and will  contribute to our continued growth advising on transactions for corporate clients and professional service firms.“

Doncaster Chamber, Phil Harris

Doncaster Chamber is  welcoming a new CEO from January next year, following the upcoming planned retirement of current CEO Phil Harris.

Current deputy CEO Dan Fell has been unanimously appointed to the position of chief executive by the Chamber’s Board of Directors.

Dan commented: “I am delighted to be taking on the CEO post at Doncaster Chamber.  For many years I have had a passion for Doncaster and its economy and I am delighted that I will be able to continue playing an integral role to the town’s further development."

Tim Care, Ward Hadaway

Tim Care joins the Public Sector team at Ward Hadaway as a Partner.

In the North East, Tim has advised on projects including the £300m PFI scheme to redevelop the RVI and Freeman Hospitals in Newcastle, the libraries PFI scheme for Newcastle City Council and the procurement of an operator for the Tyne & Wear Metro.

He has also advised South Tyneside and Gateshead Councils on their joint Building Schools for the Future project as well as local authorities in the North East on innovative heating and energy projects.

Tim said: "Ward Hadaway has a well-deserved national reputation for the quality of its work across the public sector so joining the firm seems like a perfect fit for me in many ways.

"Not only does Ward Hadaway have a distinguished track record for the projects it has advised on over recent years, but it is also at the forefront of new thinking and new developments in the public sector, which is vital at a time when the landscape faced by local authorities, health trusts and other public bodies is changing so rapidly.

"I know a number of the team already from my previous work so I am really looking forward to getting together with them to work on more ways in which we can help public sector organisations and private sector companies who want to work with them deal with the challenges they face."

Craig Knowles, Southdale

Construction and development specialist Southdale has appointed Craig Knowles as its new North East Operations Director.

With more than 20 years of experience in the construction industry, Craig joined Southdale in 2012 as commercial manager for the Yorkshire Region, overseeing Southdale’s commercial and operational elements in the region.

In July 2013, Craig was appointed commercial director for the Eastern Region, which covered the Yorkshire and Humber and North East regions. 

As operational director for the North East he now undertakes the full operational and commercial management duties based in the North East.

Group managing director Paul Moore said: “Craig has been leading projects for Southdale in the North East for some time now.

“He has a superb track record and a great wealth of experience, which will be vital in helping to drive Southdale forward into a period of growth in the North East.”

Damian Robson, Gordon Brown Law Firm

North East-based Gordon Brown Law Firm has expanded its team with the appointment of Damian Robson, an experienced associate solicitor who has been named in The Legal 500 three times.

Damian, who studied Law at Durham University, works alongside the firm’s head of dispute resolution Jonathon Stokes, specialising in employment law and is training towards becoming a barrister.

On graduating in Law from Durham University in 1999, Damian began his career at Browell Smith & Co as a paralegal while studying his Legal Practice Course (LPC) part-time across two years at Northumbria University.

Damian, from Newcastle, went on to complete his training contract with Ward Hadaway and then took on a role at EEF in 2003, qualifying as a solicitor. 

Following this, Damian joined Dickinson Dees prior to its merger, where he was quickly promoted to associate solicitor.

Seeing an opportunity to retrain as a barrister, Damian joined Gordon Brown Law Firm this October from Ward Hadaway, where he had returned for four years.

Damian said: “It’s apparent that Gordon Brown is investing in further establishing itself in the business community and their transparent, people-focussed approach is particularly refreshing”

Natalie Sykes, IoD

Natalie Sykes has been appointed regional director of the North East branch of the Institute of Directors (IoD).

Natalie is also regional director in Yorkshire and the Humber, a role to which she was appointed in May 2014.

The Harrogate-based entrepreneur has business interests across property, supercars, health and wellbeing. 

She is chair of sustainable community initiative Groundwork North Yorkshire, board member of YABA and a director of a prestigious estate in North Yorkshire.

Natalie Sykes, regional director for the IoD in the North East, said: “I am passionate about growing businesses and entrepreneurship in the North. 

“Through my role with the IoD I want to encourage professionals young and not so young to take advantage of our membership benefits, director development and excellent events. Together we can help each other and drive regional prosperity.”

She will work closely with the IoD’s North East chair Graeme Robb, owner of Darlington-based Recognition PR.

He said: "Natalie has shown in Yorkshire and the Humber that she is passionate about strengthening our position as a business organisation that can help directors grow their business and share best practice.”

Harvey Emms, Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners

North East planning consultancy Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners has recruited Harvey Emms from an executive role with Newcastle City Council.

Harvey joined Nathaniel Lichfield & Partners as a Senior Director having previously been Director of Planning, Housing and Transport and Assistant Director of Development at Newcastle City Council. 

As chief planner at the council Mr Emms dealt with some major applications including; the Eldon Square shopping centre expansion and new bus station, the refurbishment of Monument Mall, the Stephenson Quarter and high-profile residential schemes in the Ouseburn.

Most has recently he has been the Director in charge of the development of the Core Strategy and Urban Core Plan setting the planning framework for Newcastle and Gateshead for the next 20 years.

Jonathan Wallace, senior director and Newcastle office leader for NLP said: “We are delighted that Harvey has joined our team.

“Harvey brings with him considerable experience and knowledge of planning and transport issues in Newcastle, Tyne and Wear and the wider region. 

“He has extensive experience of working with chief officers across the North East and with senior politicians and MPs which will benefit our clients and their schemes.”

Jodie Maddison, Aspers Casino

Jodie Maddison has recently been promoted to the head of hospitality at Newcastle’s Aspers Casino.

The varied role includes managing a team of 55 employees, organising parties and events, whilst ensuring all customers enjoy the very best experience whilst visiting Aspers.

Jodie joined the hospitality team in 2005 when she was just 19 and spent five years working as a restaurant waitress and valet before becoming a cashier. 

Jodie went on to return to a hospitality role becoming a customer service manager before being promoted to head of hospitality.

Jodie said: “Working in a casino means you meet a wide variety of people and I was interested in doing something different to the norm when I first started my career.

“As head of the hospitality department, I am responsible for all the staff and managers in hospitality, as well as looking after the customers who visit our casino.”

Growing the number of events that are staged at Aspers is a key part of Jodie’s job. She said: “There is a large scope to do this because of the facilities we have. We’ve recently hosted wedding receptions, birthday celebrations and now getting back into the Christmas party season.”

Stephen Patterson, Newcastle NE1 Ltd

Newcastle NE1 Ltd, the Business improvement district company for Newcastle city centre has appointed marketing and communications director Stephen Patterson.

Stephen has played a pivotal role in NE1 Ltd since its formation in 2007 and was part of the original team that established the BID, the largest BID district in Europe at the time of its launch.

Chief executive, Sean Bullick said: “Stephen’s appointment to the board is an acknowledgement of the important contribution he has made to NE1 and the projects delivered across a wide range of NE1’s business operations.

Stephen Patterson said: “I’m delighted to have been appointed to NE1’s board – we are entering an exciting period in NE1’s business development having secured a second term. 

“The renewal ballot gave us a resounding vote of confidence with a 67% voter turnout and an overwhelming majority of 78% of businesses voting to back the BID."

Amanda Ball, managing director of Denton-based AD Sprinklers doubled her turnover to £3 million in one year after participating in a business programme.

The Manchester company supplies and installs fire-safety sprinkler systems to well-known brands throughout the UK

A progress report on the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses UK (10KSB) programme - produced by five leading academic institutions, including Manchester Metropolitan University, demonstrates that it is enabling participating businesses to grow faster and create more jobs than they otherwise would have.

Since 2011, more than 200 North West enterprises have benefited from the business growth programme - delivered in the region by Manchester Metropolitan University Centre for Enterprise.

By 2013, when Amanda started the Goldman Sachs 10,000 Small Businesses programme at Manchester Metropolitan University (MMU) Centre for Enterprise,  AD Sprinklers was  doing well.

Turnover was £1.5 million, but growth had flat lined.

As she worked on her growth plan, Amanda started to see a bigger picture of her industry and imagine what her company needed to look like in order for turnover to double.

The staff at AD Sprinklers were also involved in the programme, after each module, Amanda would think about how to take the activities and lessons from the day and share them with the team to get their buy in.

A significant element of the restructuring was handing over the day-to-day running of the business to a  general manager, which freed time for Amanda to focus on the future.

It was a decision that has paid off.

AD Sprinklers’ initial plan to double turnover to £3 million in three years was achieved in one year and they are now aiming for a turnover of £5 million in the next two years.

International chief of staff for Goldman Sachs, Michelle Pinggera, said: “Small businesses are key to the UK’s growth prospects and the health of the wider economy.

“The innovation, growth and employment opportunities they foster have a widespread impact across industries and communities.

“We are delighted with the impact the 10KSB UK programme has had to date and look forward to seeing continued progress at the participating businesses.

“We hope the success of the programme will demonstrate the lasting effect that these initiatives can have and encourage others to support small business growth.“

Start up business Quick Reach Powered Access Ltd  has opened its first depot in Eccles with support from NatWest and the bank’s asset finance partner Lombard.

NatWest Relationship Manager Michael Hall obtained £800,000 to support the new venture which includes £500,000 of funding from Lombard.

The business specialises in the hire, sale and maintenance of high quality powered access and Telehandlers – or electric lifts for site work, and also offers a comprehensive service to clients across the UK.

Quick Reach also offer comprehensive training for industry professionals and beginners; ensuring their workforce meets national and international health and safety standards with the IPAF and PASMA registered courses.

The business was started by brothers John and David Barton, along with John Barnes.

The company has launched a business in the construction industry during the recovery period of the economic downturn and hopes to create further job opportunities as they expand.

John Barton said: “Having worked in the industry for so many years we had a burning desire to develop our own style of business.

“We aim to create the personal touch of a family business to our customers nationwide. “NatWest have been an integral part in the development of our company and have fully supported our ideas and philosophy.

“We already have an excellent customer base which continues to grow weekly.“

North East manufacturing entrepreneur Malcolm Humble, founder of Cramlington-based Opsol UK, has joined Oxford Innovation’s team of 15 coaching specialists to deliver the Business Northumberland High Growth programme.

Bedlington-born Malcolm set up Opsol UK in 2002, taking it from a home-based business to one that now employs 40 people in a 14,500 square foot, state of the art manufacturing facility.  

Opsol UK designs and manufactures circuit boards for a wide range of blue chip clients in sectors including rail and highway signage, education, security, medical and energy.  The company is set to achieve a turnover of more than £3.5 million this year.

In June 2014 Malcolm sold Opsol UK to one of its clients, Ashington-based A-Belco Group, global specialists in electrical and mechanical engineering.  Malcolm remains managing director of Opsol UK and will combine this role with coaching Oxford Innovation clients.

The Business Northumberland High Growth Programme offers established and start-up firms in the county fully-funded support in achieving growth and creating jobs.

Since the launch of the programme in April 2013, 80 businesses have been supported by Oxford Innovation’s team of expert coaches resulting in 82 jobs created or protected.

The £1.35 million programme is funded by the North East European Regional Development Fund (ERDF) and is being delivered by Oxford Innovation on behalf of Arch, The Northumberland Development Company.

Malcolm said: “Having established and grown my own business I really want to help other local entrepreneurs do the same.

“I know what it’s like to take a business through difficult economic times and how it feels to be taking a risk on an investment when there is no guarantee of success.  

“Running a business can be a lonely existence so I want to be there to support people going through the same.

“I don’t claim to have all of the answers but I can draw on my own experiences which will hopefully be of value to other local businesses.  

“My guiding principle is people should be empowered to get on with what they’re good at.  

“I hear so much jargon in business today and it’s easy to see how good, talented people can end up getting bogged down by buzz words and the latest management trends.  

“Keep it simple, do what you do well and you won’t go far wrong.“

Oxford Innovation’s programme manager, Mike Jobson, said:  “Malcolm is a fantastic addition to our coaching team.  He brings great experience and an outstanding track record of success.  

“If any Northumberland based business, especially from the manufacturing sector, would like to receive completely impartial, straight-talking support from Malcolm they should contact Oxford Innovation on 01670 528403 to arrange an appointment.“

A Newcastle-born engineering entrepreneur has returned to his North East roots to set up a new office specialising in offshore technology solutions.

Dr Lee Renforth who was born in Wallsend and went to school in Heaton, Newcastle, moved to Manchester in 1986 to study and then went on to start-up an engineering company that has become a global success.

The company, High Voltage Partial Discharge Ltd (HVPD), are now setting up a new office, HVPD Offshore, in Hoults Yard, Newcastle upon Tyne.

Newcastle has gained a nationwide reputation as a centre of excellence for offshore and subsea technology and Dr Renforth will be the thriving business community’s latest addition.

HVPD are experts in the growing industry of on-line partial discharge (OLPD) condition monitoring of in-service, medium voltage (MV) and high voltage (HV) networks.

The company offers OLPD diagnostic test and monitoring equipment to provide an ‘early warning’ of ‘incipient’ high voltage insulation faults. The technology enables clients such as oil and gas producers and renewable energy generators to take early preventative maintenance action to avoid costly, unplanned outages.

HVPD’s on-line partial discharge (OLPD) test and monitoring solutions have supported customers such as BP, Chevron, Shell, DONG, RWE and SSE to monitor the condition of their offshore assets since 2006.

Lee founded HVPD in 2006 and the company has gone from strength to strength achieving average exports of over 80 per cent of turnover, with the last three years seeing growth in overseas sales of 287 per cent.

This track record was recognised this year when the company won two Queen’s Awards for Enterprise in the categories of International Trade and Innovation.

The Newcastle office is likely to add export value to the North-East and it will support HVPD’s headquarters in Manchester and satellite offices in China (established 2012) and Houston, USA (established 2014) in serving customers, both locally and globally.

Regionally, the North-East is playing a big role in UK economic recovery and it continues to grow its exports; recent figures from April to June 2014 showed that North-East exports rose by 2.32 per cent, the highest of all English regions.

The quarterly figures released by HMRC showed that £3.102 billion worth of goods were exported from the region, an increase of £273 million, or 9.66 per cent compared to the same period last year.

With strong links with Newcastle and Durham universities, and extensive work carried out in partnership with Offshore Renewable Energy Catapult (formerly Narec), HVPD is looking forward to continuing its research and development activities from the North-East.

Managing Director at HVPD, Dr Lee Renforth, said: “Thanks to its strong knowledge-based economy, Newcastle plays an important role in delivering innovative solutions to the offshore oil and gas, and renewables sectors.

“This makes it the ideal location to support our growing customer base in the area and abroad.

“I’m delighted to be coming back home to set up the new office in Newcastle. I was inspired to study science at Manor Park School, Heaton, and our new base is just minutes away from where I first studied science.

“It means a lot to me and I am proud that we are setting up in a region with such a strong engineering heritage.

“Newcastle has become a centre of expertise for offshore technology and we are delighted to be able to support our customers and stimulate new business opportunities by having a dedicated office for the offshore market.

“This also supports our global growth strategy which aims at serving our customers not only in key geographical locations but also in specific industries.”

NoChintz, the Manchester-based creative studio has completed a £350k project for new independent wine bar and retailer, Salut Wines.

The venue, which is situated on the city’s Booth Street will be Manchester’s largest wine dispensing business, offering customers  the opportunity to enjoy 42 different world wines by the glass and over 200 bottles to purchase.

It will also provide specialist master classes enabling customers to differentiate between the Cabernet Franc and the Cabernet Mitos with specialist master classes.

NoChintz was appointed on the project by its clients, Jon and Sara Saunby to oversee the complete interior design of the of the 250sq m former Oddbins unit.

NoChintz also designed the brand new shop front which includes bespoke signage, awnings and an outdoor seating area.

Sara Saunby, owner of Salut Wines added: “We are delighted with the look and feel of the first Salut Wines Bar.

“It really reflects our original brief and creates the perfect environment for customers either wishing to enjoy a glass or two with us, popping in to browse the vast range of international wines or to enjoy our expert tuition.

“NoChintz has successfully delivered a concept which is like no other in the city and we are thrilled with the creativity and imagination that they have brought to the project.“

Two fashionista sisters from Newcastle are celebrating the successful launch of HAKKA Fashion, an online fashion boutique aimed at 18-25 year old women.

Discovering a gap in the market for alternative Asian ‘street style’ that was affordable, Carmen and Katie Ho have seen traffic to HAKKA Fashion increase rapidly at 30-50% each week since launching in July this year.  As a result, their fledgling business is already on target to hit its annual projected forecast of £100k.

Aiming to start designing their own collection under the HAKKA label by the end of the year, the sisters also stock 18 different global brands on www.hakkafashion.com, and have recently received interest from labels famously worn by Miley Cyrus and Lady GaGa looking to secure listings on the site.

24-year-old Carmen said: “Katie and I have always loved fashion, especially experimenting with different styles and prints, but felt that the fun looks that an edgy, Asian style emulate weren’t readily available in the UK.

“Having spent a lot of time selling our still-new clothes on eBay to be able to afford the newer trends, we realised we could be turning our shared clothing passion into a viable business.  With the increasing prominence of online shopping, we sought the guidance of our family and friends and decided that the time was right to go for it, and HAKKA Fashion was born.”

With vast experience working in fashion retail, the Ho sisters also model HAKKA’s clothing at their studio in Newcastle’s China Town, in order to demonstrate the wearability of the clothes for their target ‘girl next door’ audience.

Carmen explained: “Everyone should embrace their own style and never apologise for it. We are passionate about encouraging our customers experiment with unique looks, enabling them to stand out from the crowd in the best possible way.”

Mixing contemporary fashions from Europe and America with the fresh and vibrant looks of Asian street style, HAKKA Fashion aims to inspire and empower women from all walks of life.

Carmen continued: “Asian street fashion is quickly becoming the next big thing. We should all embrace fashion influences from other cultures or countries, put a little twist on it and give women the confidence to wear their look in a more stylish way. If we can wear it and look good, then so can anyone.”

Named after the native Hakka Chinese language spoken by their parents, HAKKA Fashion was created to honour their heritage. Carmen commented: “We don’t want our westernised persona to lose its roots so HAKKA seemed an ideal label name.

“We are also working towards marketing the brand towards East and South East Asia over the next 12 months and share the best in ‘quirky’ Asian street fashion online, both locally and internationally.”

The e-commerce online boutique can take direct payment from Payment Sense and is PCIDSS protected.

For further information please visit www.hakkafashion.com

Image source: KellyB.

Winchester City Council is working with Southern Entrepreneurs to offer small business owners and sole traders in the Winchester District business advice and assistance.

This business support service called Southern Entrepreneurs is free to join and its mission is to provide accessible support to local businesses and help them learn, network, connect and grow.

Southern Entrepreneurs is provided by Eastleigh Borough Council and offers a wide range of services and resources to help improve local business.

These include discounted and subsidised training programmes, free business events, free networking events, executive club membership, free monthly business magazine subscription and one-to-one support and guidance from in-house experts.

Membership numbers have risen to over 1,000, with over 250 members based in the Winchester District, in only a few years.

Winchester City Council’s Leader, Cllr Robert Humby, said: We are delighted to support the provision of this service in the Winchester area.

"The Southern Entrepreneurs service is one of many business support initiatives introduced by my administration to help business in the Winchester District to thrive and prosper.

"We also offer a package of grants for businesses and employees entering the work place, support for the District’s market towns and signposting to various services, support and advice organisations.

Rob Grover, from the Winchester-based business Yuno Media, said: "Southern Entrepreneurs is where we started as a business.

"We were looking for free networking events, which seemed to be hard to come across. As a start-up company we had a very limited budget for any marketing.

"Their team helped us out a huge amount with their great knowledge and experience in business.

"The guest speakers have all been fantastic and from a start-up point of view, we have learned so much, from marketing to motivation.

"Within two months of networking with Southern Entrepreneurs we moved into our first office space as we had the confidence that we had the start of a brilliant brand."

Independent retailer Anil Naran has opened a new Costcutter store in Swinton, creating 20 jobs and modernising a much-needed community post office for the benefit of local residents, with financial support from The Royal Bank of Scotland (RBS).

The store was officially opened by Hazel Blears, MP for Salford and Eccles.

The store in Chorley Road, a former Blockbusters unit, has undergone a major refit and brings to five the number of Costcutter stores in the Greater Manchester area owned by Anil and his family.

The new Swinton Costcutter store is 3,000 sq ft and has an extensive product range including hot food to go, an off licence, chilled, fresh fruit and vegetables and general groceries.

Anil has brought the post office into his store, improving a valuable community service for his customers.  

The move is part of a programme to transform and modernise the Post Office network to help create a network of branches that are modern, sustainable and profitable.

Anil’s stores are part of the Costcutter Supermarkets Group which has more than over 2,500 convenience stores throughout the UK and Republic of Ireland.

Anil, who’s been in business for more than 20 years and employs a total of 60 people, said; “I’ve had some very positive feedback about retaining the post office which I see as a key part of my convenience offer to local residents and customers.

“I need their support to ensure that the post office service remains viable in the longer term.”

“With local people’s support for the store and the post office I will be able to create more jobs, offer job security and ensure together they remain a strong community facility.

“Without the support of RBS, none of this would have been able to come to fruition.”

Relationship manager at RBS, Liz Williamson, added: “I am delighted to support Anil’s latest expansion plans and wish him all the very best as he settles into the community providing a much needed service.”