Captain Fawcett is delighted to present: A Festive Fundraising Evening With The 2 Toms
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Aviva in the news
At a time of economic uncertainty, which we currently have, the sudden change of a CEO of a major Norwich employer such as Aviva can cause concern. Andrew Moss will be seen as a loss to Aviva as he had been responsible for the successful integration of 40 brands into the single Aviva brand as well as doing much to reduce costs within the organisation, including the sale of RAC. He was well known in Norwich and this change is likely to cause concern to Norwich employees.
However, Aviva have moved swiftly so as to not give time for speculations or uncertainty and Mr McFarlane has a good reputation as CEO at ANZ and for making the improvement in shareholder value at Standard Chartered. Mr McFarlane was also involved in the recent organisation structure changes so this is unlikely to be changed. Aviva has a strong brand, dedicated people many of them employed in Norwich, and a solid business foundation and so I am sure they will be able to recover quickly from this situation and continue to move forward.
Coming on the back of Lotus being in the news, reconfirms how important it is that the Chamber continues to work closely with our national brand business members to ensure as a business community we do all we can to support them.
Norwich & Central Norfolk Cruse Bereavement Care Business Breakfast
Hatch Brenner Solicitors on Theatre Street is supporting local charity Norwich & Central Norfolk Cruse Bereavement Care as they hold an informal networking breakfast on Thursday 14 March. The Business Breakfast, to be held at the Assembly House on Theatre Street, is a chance for representatives from local businesses to discover more about the work of the charity, how they help, and why bereavement support is so important for each individual the charity supports.
For further information or to book your place at the Business Breakfast, please contact Becky Bushell at norwichcrusefundraiser@outlook.com or call 07392 080 994. The Business Breakfast is on Thursday 14 March, 8am – 930am, with a suggested £10 per person donation to the charity.
New red tape hassle
Norman Lamb was the speaker at Steeles Law breakfast I attended this morning and he gave an overview of what he felt the key issues were for business relating to red tape and what he was working on relating to his key areas. I have a great deal of time for Norman and he does understand many of the issues affecting business but I am still concerned that decisions are being made without really understanding the impact on business.
An example was in the Queens Speech this week relating to fathers being able to share parental leave to care for babies. Officials said current rules on maternity and paternity leave were “outdated” because they presumed that women will do the “vast majority” of caring for infants and a spokesman for the Department for Business said: “Parents should be able to choose their childcare arrangements for themselves.” However there were few details about how the new flexible parental leave arrangements could work. Possible options include allowing mothers to return to work and transfer up to nine months of a year’s parental leave to fathers. The devil as ever will be in the detail.
As employers we do support maternity leave even though the cost to the business, especially small businesses, can be significant especially the hidden costs of recruitment and training. There is also significant impact on the uncertainty felt by the business and the person covering the post whilst they wait to see if the mother does in fact return to work.
From what Norman said this morning this new regulation is to help balance the work place and enable women to get back to work quicker as they are a valuable resource. Now I am not going to argue with that last point, but it will mean that not only will employers have to arrange maternity cover when their female workers take time off, which they understand and have learnt to cope with, now their male colleague will also be taking time off. However whereas the majority of women take 9 – 12 months maternity leave their male colleagues are likely to take less from a few weeks up to 9 months making it a real problem to find cover. Will fathers have to give the same length of notice was mothers do? What if half way through mothers change their minds and you have given a maternity contract to someone else? How is a business meant to plan around that sort of arrangement!
If you are a small business any time taken by an employee hits your productivity and subsequently your bottom line. When managers are fighting to keep their businesses on track, this type of new regulation is just not helpful but more than that we need to understand how it will work.
What are your views?
Understanding the Market Research Apprenticeship
The purpose of this event is to offer an online forum to any Market Research employers who are considering employing one or more Market Research Apprentices, or who have heard about the Apprenticeship and want to know more.
The event will draw on the knowledge and experience of a panel who have been involved with the Apprenticeship and can guide you on the reality, logistics and benefits of employing a Market Research apprentice.
This will be an informal forum to hear from the panel in turn and be able to ask them lots of questions.
Planned Panel Members
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– A representative from the Market Research Society (MRS)
– A representative from Swarm Training
– A representative from Ofcom, an employer of Market Research Apprentices
– 3 current Market Research Apprentices
– A representative from the Colour of Research
– Chaired by Suzanne Hodnett who is the lead tutor for the Market Research Apprenticeship at Swarm Training
We will also discuss how the Apprenticeship can be a launchpad for learners onto the MRS Advanced Certificate, how that works and the part that the Advanced Certificate plays in management level skills development.
Chambers members take home gold at the Norfolk Business Awards 2019
Norfolk businesses are thriving, and the Norfolk Business Awards 2019 were a gleaming example of that last week at the Norfolk Showground Arena.
We were delighted to see two Norfolk Chambers of Commerce members amongst those being celebrated at the awards ceremony last Thursday.
Indigo Swan were once again, for the second year in a row, crowned Small & Medium Business of the year.
MHA Larking Gowen picked up the Best Employer Award, an excellent achievement following on from their BCC Regional Winners Award for Workplace Wellbeing in 2018.
A huge congratulations must go out to all of the excepitonal winners on the night:
- Angling Direct – Outstanding Achievement Award
- Holkham – Customer Care Award
- Solder – Tech Innovator Award
- East Anglian Air Ambulance – Large Business Award
- Cornwall Insight – Knowledge Pioneer Award
- Leaf Expression Systems – Breaking Boundaries Award
- Richardsons Leisure – Investing in Future Growth Award
- Carole Osborne, borne – Director of the Year Award
Read more on the EDP Business Section.
Bold Thinking Needed To Keep UK At Top Table
The British Chambers of Commerce has launched its Global Britain Challenge report to boost exports and channel overseas investment into the UK.
Among the 28 recommendations are:
The creation of a ‘Team UK’ to champion an updated ‘Brand Britain’ and show the world the best of what we can offer.
A change in mindset, so the UK takes a more vigorous approach to fighting for its future success.
Finally stepping out of Brexit’s long shadow, so politicians take bold decisions to make it work better and grab the opportunities it offers.
An injection of more investment into the UK by targeting the big, and growing economies, with the money and understanding to make the most of what we can do.
A greater emphasis on services exports in the UK’s trade deals.
The ‘Global Britain’ report will be published at an event hosted by Heathrow Airport, on Wednesday 27 March, at the Compass Centre, in Nelson Road, Hounslow.
It is the fourth of five policy documents from the BCC’s new Business Council, as part of the ‘Future of Economy’ project. The report draws on expertise from businesses of all sizes, academia, Chambers and think-tanks.
Its proposals have two aims; to raise the flow of foreign direct investment (FDI) into the United Kingdom and to increase the amount of goods and services we export.
It recognises that the UK is starting from a position of great strength – it is currently the sixth largest economy in the world, the fifth largest exporter, and has the third largest stock of inward investment assets.
The country has an embarrassment of riches – its universities, legal system, culture, creativity and can-do spirit are the envy of the world.
But none of this can be taken for granted. The UK is the only G7 country yet to regain its pre-pandemic level of trade intensity.
To keep its seat at the top table Government, business, higher education, and cultural and societal institutions must work together. Only then can Britain’s place in the world, and the world’s place in Britain be guaranteed.
Martha Lane Fox, President of the British Chambers of Commerce and Chair of the Business Council, said:
“Trade and inward investment are two vital pillars that hold up the UK economy. But despite new free trade agreements and a raft of other deals, the intensity of our exports and imports is lagging behind our main rivals.
“This is about much more than Brexit, it’s about the UK’s attractiveness as an investment location and our reputation as a trading nation in the world.
“But Brexit casts a long shadow. There is sometimes a reluctance among politicians to either recognise problems or suggest solutions, because of how they may be viewed either side of the Brexit divide.
“This must stop. Our politicians must be bolder in their decision making. They must set out a strategy on how we mange EU regulation and where, it makes sense, we diverge, so British business can benefit.
“The UK has so much going for it, and we need to make the most of the huge opportunities that presents. Rather than deciding strategy based on parochial political concerns, let’s decide on what’s best for the long-term future of the UK.
“That means taking stronger positions and negotiating better deals with the EU and the rest of the world, to champion our world leading services sector.
“We must also do more to improve the flows of investment into the UK, by going after the big fish – the nations with the biggest and deepest pockets.
“And it is crucial that we sell the UK’s unique offering and its many advantages to the world as loudly as can.”
Lord Mandelson, Chairman of Global Counsel, former British First Secretary of State and EU trade commissioner, said:
“I do not believe that future UK trade policy can any longer rely on the negotiation of free trade agreements. Recent experience shows that these agreements have become too shallow and optical with insufficient gains for the effort expended.
“I, therefore, think the next government will need to look at additional means of commercial diplomacy to create global opportunities for UK advanced services and manufacturing capabilities.”
Michael Hayman, Chair of the Global Britain Challenge Group, said:
“This report calls for the creation of a new ‘Team UK’ to champion and revitalise ‘Brand Britain’ by showcasing to the world the best of what the UK can offer inward investors.
“There is a world of choice for business and the UK is faced with competition from the entrepreneurial zeal of economies globally. That’s why we need to urgently focus on accelerating our position as a leading nation for foreign direct investment with a new and coordinated focus on presenting the country’s capacity for innovation.
“Trade has continued to change and develop, and we are more than capable of changing with it. The gear shift required is from an incumbent, to one of a challenger. The UK is a great country for business but too often, investors told us, we are seen as unpredictable and uncertain. They want to know where they stand and where things are going.
“The opportunity is to provide that clarity and certainty with a message to the world that the UK is very much in business and for business.”
Ross Baker, Chief Commercial Officer, Heathrow said:
“We must champion British exports and foreign direct investment into the UK to enable a thriving, competitive and resilient economy long into the future. As the UK’s hub, with exports worth over £100 billion moving through the airport a year, Heathrow is primed and ready to support the Global Britain Challenge recommendations.
“Simple, common-sense regulation that promotes exporting will help the UK retain its competitive edge and be seen as the country of choice to do business with.”
Co.next Workshop – Optimising Your ADHD for Success
This Lunch and Learn is for you if:
✅ You want manage your ADHD energy highs and lows.
✅ You want to be more effective and reduce ADHD sabotage.
✅ You know that improving your health will boost your performance and happiness and help manage your ADHD, but don’t know where to start.
✅ You believe your neurodiversity shouldn’t hold you back from reaching your potential.
✅ You want to stay up-to-date with the latest thinking from trusted experts.
✅ You feel you’re on the brink of burnout and need to shift your approach.
This session will give you some hints and tips to optimise your ADHD and bring the right energy into your working day and beyond. Ideally, this session is for people who know they have ADHD, however, if you suspect you do have, please reach out to Ian and he would be happy to talk to you about how you might want to proceed. Please note Energise Me, do not provide formal diagnosis of ADHD.
About our Presenter
Ian Hacon is the Founder of Energise Me. An experienced CEO and NED turned health and wellbeing coach, Ian specialises in ADHD coaching, He is an ILM Level 5 Coach and Mentor and a Certified ADHD Coach. He’s also an endurance athlete and BMXer.
Ian’s company, Energise Me is entirely focused on those with ADHD. It works on the principle that if you can be bring the right energy, you can be more successful and happy.
STEMM Village at Royal Norfolk Show 2023
The Royal Norfolk Show will be hosting a new project this year – the STEMM Village. The STEMM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics & Medicine) Village will ‘provide a platform to educate and inspire teenagers in how STEMM can help us address global challenges such as clean energy, disease prevention and food security, with a particular focus on revolutionising agriculture’. As the world faces an increasingly uncertain future, educating future generations on the importance of protecting the planet, and STEMM provides a unique opportunity to do so.
Visit the STEMM Village and the Norfolk Chambers at the Royal Norfolk Show on 28th & 29th June 2023, at the Norfolk Showground.
Has planning improved?
It is almost two months since the National Planning Policy Framework (NPPF) was published, with the aim of making the planning system less complex, more accessible and an enabler of economic growth. The NPPF came into force immediately for local authorities with no local plan in place. For those with one in place already, they were given 12 months to adjust their plans so they conform with the new framework. Key to the success of the NPPF will be its implementation, and we will be monitoring this over the coming months.
If you know of any businesses, or are one yourself, that have applied for planning permission since the publication of the NPPF that would be keen to share their experiences of the new system, do let us know.
We would also be interested to find out if the business perception of the planning system has changed. If you have an opinion please let me know
Agents and Distributors – BCC Accredited
Do you know the difference between the types of agent and distributor and their roles? Knowing the differences and where each one may be appropriate is essential for avoiding potential costs of getting it wrong.
This half day course covers the vital area of agency and distribution. It examines the differences, EU legislation, and finding, appointing and motivating you partners and highlights the pitfalls and costs.
Aims • To have an understanding of the difference between agents and distributors and their roles • Know what EU laws have to be considered when appointing agents • Know what to consider when appointing an agent or distributor • Understand the advantages and disadvantages of each • Understand the legal implications of appointing agents and distributors
This course also covers: how to find agents or distributors, sources of help, changing an agent or distributor, sample agreements, memorandum of understanding and how to minimise legal costs.
Who Should Attend? This course is suitable for anyone involved in the export or import process such as; accounts, purchasing / buyers, freight forwarders, shipping, goods inward staff and many more.
Testimonials “This course has given me a greater understanding on how agents and distributors work and the contracts and stages involved with finding one suitable.”
“A greater understanding and more confidence when dealing with agents and distributors.”
Cancellation Policy 15% of fee payable if delegates cancel more than 7 days in advance. If less than 7 days the full fee is payable.
One of the ‘core 10’ courses accredited by British Chambers of Commerce (BCC). Candidates achieving Pass or Merit in the course will receive a certificate. Those who pass 6 individual courses will achieve a nationally recognised Foundation Award in International Trade.
The Business of Climate Stories
Free to attend – reserve your place online now!
We invite you to join us for a half day event of lively debate and discussion around the topic of climate change, exploring how collectively the local business community can drive for change both individually and collectively.
The event will comprise of three panel discussions, all chaired by Asher Minns, Executive Director of the Tyndall Centre for Climate Change Research, along with guest speakers Team HODL.
Team HODL are world record breakers having just rowed the Pacific Ocean raising awareness for the Ocean Clean Up charity. Hear their incredible story of endurance after spending over 30 days
on the water.
If you are passionate about how the city of Norwich can collectively come together, to collaborate and discuss how we can instil change in this most incredibly pertinent topic, then please do join us for what promises to be a truly insightful day.