Staff at local accountancy firm Aston Shaw have raised a grand total of £5,796.68 for Norfolk’s cancer charity, Big C.
Dominic Shaw, Director of Aston Shaw was delighted to present Dr Chris Bushby, Chief Executive of Big C with a cheque for £5,796.68 raised through a variety of fundraising events.
Over the course of the year the staff at Aston Shaw have a taken part in a range of fundraising activities, including a Colour 5k, Inflatable 5k, Dress Down Days, Networking Events, a Charity Pub Quiz and a Sponsored Silence by Aston Shaw’s ‘most talkative employee’.
Dominic Shaw, Director, said: “It’s a real pleasure to be able to donate such a sizeable sum of money to Big C, we’ve had a lot of fun raising it and we know that it’s going to a very worthwhile cause.”
Dr Chris Bushby, Chief Executive of Big C, said: “We rely on voluntary donations for the majority of our income, so support from local businesses is really important. We’d like to say a massive thank you to Aston Shaw for choosing us as their charity for the last year. It’s been a brilliant year working with the whole of the Aston Shaw team.”
Aston Shaw’s new charity of the year is East Anglian Air Ambulance, a life-saving charity delivering critical care to seriously ill or injured people in the region. Aston Shaw has stated that they aim to beat last year’s total and are aiming to raise £7,000.
Corporate Finance specialist Stephen Reed has been promoted to partner at regional chartered accountancy practice Price Bailey. Based in their Thorpe St Andrew office, Stephen joined Price Bailey in May 2012 as Corporate Finance Director, and over the past two years he has been key to the development of the firm’s Corporate Finance offering not only in Norwich but across the whole of East Anglia.
Stephen’s wealth of specialist knowledge and experience has proven invaluable to a number of local businesses, including SignsExpress whom Stephen advised on last year’s management buyout and the owners of SK Sales which was sold to SIG plc. Stephen joins Daren Moore, Aaron Widdows, Richard Day and John Warren to bring the total number of Norwich-based partners to 5.
Commenting on his promotion, Stephen said: “I am delighted to be in a position to help with the continued development of Price Bailey’s corporate finance proposition. the team and our service offering have grown significantly over the past two years. As the largest SME-focussed Corporate Finance team based in East Anglia, we’re perfectly placed to help business owners and investors take advantage of market opportunities – whether this is by helping to grow businesses through acquisition, better planning and investment or by achieving optimum value from their business sale.”
Stephen would be delighted to hear from any fellow Chamber members who are looking to develop their business to discuss how hecan help. Please call on 01603 709330 or email stephen.reed@pricebailey.co.uk
Commenting on the news that the UK government and the European Commission have reached a deal to conclude the first phase of the Brexit negotiations, Chris Sargisson, Chief Executive of Norfolk Chamber said:
“Norfolk businesses will be breathing a sigh of relief that ‘sufficient progress’ has been achieved. After the noise and political brinksmanship of recent days, news of a breakthrough in the negotiations will be warmly welcomed by companies across the UK and Norfolk.
“Business will particularly cheer the mutual commitment to a transition period to support business confidence and trade, and will want the details confirmed swiftly in the new year when negotiators move on to the big questions around our future trade relationship with the EU.
“For business, a swift start to trade talks is crucial to upcoming investment and growth decisions. Companies all across the UK want absolute clarity on the long-term deal being sought, and want government to work closely with business experts to ensure that the details are right.
“Businesses want answers on what leaving the EU will mean for regulation, customs, hiring, standards, tariffs and taxes. The job of the UK government and the European Commission now is to provide those answers – and do everything in their power to ensure vibrant cross-border trade between the UK and EU countries can continue.”
On the question of citizens’ rights, and the status of EU employees in UK firms, Mr Sargisson added:
“The biggest priority for many firms since the EU referendum has been to get clarity and security for their European employees, whose contribution to business success across the UK is hugely valued. We are delighted that they, as well as UK citizens living and working in the EU, now have more clarity and can plan their future with greater confidence.”
We had an amazing time in the Smash Marketing office on Friday, getting into the Do Blue spirit for World Mental Health Day! A big shout out to Mind Norfolk and Waveney and all the local companies participating.
By wearing blue, raising donations, and joining in the conversation, you’re helping shine a light on mental health and making sure no one faces it alone. Every bit of support counts, and seeing so many people get involved reminded us just how much we can do together.
Now in its 11th year, East Anglian recruitment agency Cooper Lomaz have released their annual Salary Survey and Recruitment Trends report.
The report, which presents findings from over 2,800 individuals across the East of England working within the technical and professional sectors, is now available to download from their website – https://www.cooperlomaz.co.uk/salary-survey-2019/
Simon Brown, Managing Director of Cooper Lomaz, said: “In producing this annual report our goal is simple; to provide an unrivalled and unbiased insight into recruitment trends from the past twelve months from across our region.”
In addition to salary statistics for the Accounting & Finance, Engineering, Food Manufacturing, IT, Sales & Marketing, and Supply Chain sectors, this year’s report also highlights recruitment trends and hot topics including the gender pay gap. We found an alarming difference between the amount of money earned by men and women in the sectors we operate. Shockingly, we calculated that September 19th 2019 will be the day that the average women will stop earning their annual salary compared to men.
Simon added “This year we’ve discussed in more detail some challenging and thought-provoking trends. There are insight and analysis within the report which I suspect will make some feel uncomfortable, challenged and even possibly lead to difficult conversations. However, I believe that such debate is good for business, good for employees and ultimately good for the region.”
The effect of salary on satisfaction levels is another topic which showed some interesting insight. Can money buy love? According to the data, it appears not – well, at least not on its own. The report shows that training actually plays a key role in supporting a satisfied workforce.
The strong growth seen in the IT sector shows no sign of abating and we’re seeing an ever-increasing demand and competition for skilled candidates. 2019 will also see the continued rise of Digi-Tech start-ups and SMEs with Norfolk actually outstripping Suffolk and Cambridge for growth in the sector. It’s these companies who stand the greater chance of attracting top talent as they tend to offer more flexible working hours, the latest technologies and project ownership. It’ll be vital for established organisations to remain competitive by embracing modern working preferences and by recognising the value of their current IT and infrastructure employees.
For the first time in over 5 years, nearly one in four people do not feel secure in their current roles. The reason? While it would be easy to blame this trend on the wider economic and political landscape, it’s clear that businesses should be communicating with their employees about how any changes could affect them personally. For more insights into recruitment trends, download your copy of the Salary Survey and Recruitment Trends report now by visiting https://www.cooperlomaz.co.uk/salary-survey-2019/, or speak to one of their consultants on 01284 701302 | 01603 766760 | 01206 984321
We are delighted to announce the appointment of Architect Mirja Mainwaring and Architectural Technologist Matthew Clarke to the LSI Architects Board of Directors.
Director David Andrews commented that “As a Board we are unanimous in that we are all absolutely delighted that Matt and Mirja join us as Directors. Both appointments are of great significance to our practice, as Mirja becomes LSI’s first female Director and Matt becomes the first person to join the Board who initially joined the practice as a trainee following the establishing of our ‘grow our own’ policy to recruitment and employee development in 2002.”
Since joining in 2012, Mirja has played a key role in the development of the practices higher education portfolio.
Mirja has delivered a number of projects for the University of East Anglia, including the RICS award winning £9.5M Crome Court student accommodation, the £27M Hickling and Barton House student accommodation development and refurbishments of Earlham Hall, the lecture theatres and library.
Mirja is currently Project Associate on a landmark new £44M academic building project at the University.
Mirja has led the practice’s efforts to establish its presence in the residential sector and has been involved in projects such as the £8M fit out of The Loft Apartments at Manhattan Loft Garden’s in Stratford and the £34M Ebury Centre Development in Westminster.
In the eastern region Mirja has been involved in the development of a masterplan for a new sustainable community in Rackheath providing 200 new homes, and proposals for a small scale high quality sustainable residential development in Dickleburgh.
Matt joined LSI as a trainee Architectural Technologist in 2003, since then predominantly working on projects in the education sector which has formed a large percentage of the practice’s work.
Matt has undertaken the role of project runner on a number of successful projects in the education sector including UTC’s in Norfolk, Peterborough and Dagenham and the RIBA East Award winning Stephen Perse Foundation in Cambridge.
Outside of the education sector, Matt has delivered a new bioscience research and development facility for Leaf Systems on Norwich Research Park and Norfolk Wildlife Trust’s Cley Marshes Visitor Centre.
Matt is currently delivering an £8M Integrated Health Centre in Kent and a £20M office development in Suffolk.
Hicham Al Maghouch has opened a new TaxAssist Accountants shop in the heart of Lewisham.
The shop at 338 Lewisham High Street offers tailored tax and accountancy services for small businesses and individual tax payers across the Lewisham area. “I am so pleased with the look and feel of the shop. It will provide the ideal environment for me to meet with clients to discuss their tax and accountancy needs,” said Hicham. “My career has been spent working with a range of business clients of different sizes, but it has always been my passion to work with and support the small business community.” “I’m really looking forward to meeting individual taxpayers and small businesses in the area who are in need of an accountant and would encourage anyone interested in our services to pop in to arrange a free initial consultation.
I build my business on trust and integrity and my relationships with my clients are front and centre of everything I do”.
TaxAssist Accountants Lewisham specialises in providing accountancy services, company tax returns, self-assessment returns, payroll, bookkeeping, tax savings and tax advice to small businesses.
In addition, TaxAssist also offers QuickBooks Online and Receipt Bank which help business owners manage their finances, scan receipts and stay in control of their business.
The shortlist for the annual Best Practice Awards has been announced today 10 May 2019 by work life balance charity Working Families
MHA Larking Gowen has been named as a finalist in the “Best Flexible Working Initiative” award category of the Working Families’ Best Practice Awards. Employers large and small from many sectors compete annually to reach the shortlist for the unique business awards for flexible, agile organisations.
Now in their tenth year, Working Families’ Best Practice Awards showcase and celebrate employers who are offering flexibility for all their people and going above and beyond in their support for parents and carers.
“We are delighted to be shortlisted for this award,” says Amanda Ninham, Head of Human Resources at MHA Larking Gowen. “The ability for our people to work flexibly around their commitments outside of work and achieve a sense of balance in their lives is extremely important to us. Our flexible working approach dovetails perfectly with our wellbeing commitment too.”
Jane van Zyl, Chief Executive of Working Families and Chair of the judging panel, says,
“Working Families would like to congratulate MHA Larking Gowen, whose flexible working culture and employee-friendly workplace has earned them a much-coveted place as a finalist of this year’s Best Practice Awards. MHA Larking Gowen’s outstanding entry in the Best Flexible Working Initiative category caught the attention of the judging panel and stood out amongst a record number of entrants.
“Flexible working isn’t just good for parents and carers; it’s good for business. Employers reap valuable rewards when they give their staff members more control over their time-from improved employee engagement to better organisational performance.
“Our research shows an unmet demand for flexible working. 86% of parents want to work flexibly but less than half (49%) actually do. Initiatives like those on the shortlist are key to helping parents take control of their time and find the work-life balance that works best for them.”
The full shortlist for the 12 categories:
Best Flexible Working Initiative – sponsored by NHS Employers
Larking Gowen
Suffolk County Council
Global Witness
Best for Mothers
Barclays
FYXER
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
Mum & You
Best for Fathers
Response IT
Deloitte
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
Best for Carers & Eldercare
Barclays
Centrica
Best for Embedded Flexibility – sponsored by Arnold Clark
Freestyle
Deloitte
Morgan Sindall
Best for Flexible Recruitment
Suffolk County Council
Arnold Clark
Best for Line Manager Support
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
Best Innovation– sponsored byILF Scotland
Waltham Forest Council
Arnold Clark
Best Returner Programme – sponsored by Royal Bank of Canada
Barclays
Allen & Overy
Morgan Sindall
Natwest Markets
Best Family Network
Barclays
Royal Bank of Scotland
Sky
Best for Mental Health & Wellbeing – sponsored by Schroders
Deloitte
QBE Insurance Group
Unibail-Rodamco-Westfield
Financial Ombudsman Service
Best Small Employer
Response IT
9-2-3 Jobs
Slalom
The winners of each category will be announced on 20th June at London’s Vintners’ Hall.
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Working alongside the directors and other marketing executives, you will help schedule, create, manage and deliver ongoing strategic, digital and creative marketing – from inception to completion.
The role may initially be varied but can become more focused depending on your skills or ambition. Though a good understanding of marketing is vital, you will receive support to develop your skills.
Initially a Marketing Executive role, the right candidate will have a genuine opportunity to develop into a more senior role and share in our success.
The role is based in Cringleford, Norwich.
This is anticipated to be a full-time role. However, applications are also welcome from experienced marketers seeking a part time role of 20+ hours (please specify preferred hours in application).
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Contributing to the creation of marketing strategies and plans
Overseeing and coordinating ongoing marketing delivery
Briefing and supporting web designers, graphic designers and digital marketing specialists within team
Creating and contributing to marketing including:
Press releases, blogs and other content
Social media
Website content, SEO and PPC
Email campaigns
Direct mail campaigns
Print design and advertising
Identify and exploiting marketing opportunities for our clients
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Good understanding of the principles of marketing
Strong written and language skills
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Copy writing, PR or content creation skills and experience
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Hatch Brenner Solicitors in Norwich has added two new productions to its ongoing drama venue sponsorship at Norwich Theatre Royal.
The first is Educating Rita, which will be on from Monday 10 – Saturday 15 June.
The cast features well known English actor Stephen Tompkinson in the role of Frank, and Jessica Johnson playing the role of Rita. When married hairdresser Rita enrols on a university course to expand her horizons, little does she realise where the journey will take her.
Her tutor Frank is a frustrated poet, brilliant academic and dedicated drinker, who’s less than enthusiastic about taking Rita on, but the two soon realise how much they have to teach each other.
This hilarious and heart-warming comedy won the Olivier Award when it was produced in London’s West End by the RSC, before being adapted into the multi award-winning film starring Julie Walters and Michael Caine.
The second production is A Taste of Honey from the National Theatre. It will play in Norwich from Tuesday 12 – Saturday 16 November.
Directed by Bijan Sheibani (Barber Shop Chronicles), this British classic is an exhilarating depiction of working-class life in post-war Salford.
Bringing Shelagh Delaney’s career defining, taboo-breaking 1950s play to life, the story follows feisty teenager Jo after her mother, Helen, runs off with a car salesman. Jo takes up with Jimmy, a sailor who promises to marry her but tragically ends up abandoning her.
Art student Geoff moves in and assumes the role of surrogate parent until, misguidedly, he sends for Helen and their unconventional setup unravels.
West-End star Jodie Prenger leads the cast in the role of Helen.
Amy Beck, Business Development and Marketing Manager at Hatch Brenner commented: “Our support of Norwich Theatre Royal is something that all our staff are very proud of. A registered charity, the organisation continues to develop their mission in bringing first class work to the city, as well as supporting community and outreach projects. We really look forward to attending the drama productions with our guests from the Norwich business community; invariably a great evening, where our guests can share their views on the production and leave feeling inspired.”
More details can be found at www.theatreroyalnorwich.co.uk
NORWICH, Thursday 24th April 2014 – Jobs boost at Norwich International Airport In preparation for the start of another busy summer season, over 50 new jobs have been created at Norwich International Airport.
The new staff will work in a number of passenger focused areas including baggage handling, working on the apron during aircraft turnaround, in the terminal on check in, customer care duties and within the security and catering concessions.
Pleasingly, for the first time this summer some of the vacancies have been filled by students from City College, Norwich. This came about as a direct result of the student takeover at the airport earlier this year.
Gary Blake, Customer Services Manager said: “We are delighted that the link established between the airport and City College, Norwich following the student takeover has resulted in us being able to offer the chance of employment to some of the students who applied for the positions following the takeover. Boosting staff numbers for the summer season helps ensure that customer services standards are met and our passenger’s journey through the airport is a pleasurable experience.”
Joe Mulhall from City College commented – “City college Norwich’s relationship with Norwich airport clearly demonstrates the benefits of real work experience for our students. Our students really enjoyed their work experience at Norwich airport and appreciated the support and opportunity to experience all aspects of the airport operational roles and we are delighted that this resulted in some of them securing jobs for the summer.”
Andrew Bell, CEO of Norwich International said: “We are pleased to welcome so many new recruits to our airport team this summer and delighted that our relationship with City College, Norwich has helped students take their first steps into their chosen line of work. Everyone at the airport works extremely hard to maintain high levels of service with the aim of being the airport of choice for friendliness and great customer service.” -End-
The 2019 winners of the MHA Larking Gowen City of Norwich Half Marathon Business Challenge have been presented with their first place cup on location with the East Anglian Air Ambulance.
East Anglian Air Ambulance is the charity partner for this year’s race. The presentation took place at the charity’s Norwich base at Norwich International Airport, giving the winners and runners-up the opportunity to take a look inside one of its air ambulances.
This year’s winners, MHA Larking Gowen, crossed the finish line in a combined team time of 4 hours 31 minutes, just over 8 minutes ahead of last year’s winners, Barratt & Cooke. Worley Parsons’ team crossed the line in third place.
Jo Fox, Director at MHA Larking Gowen, comments:
“What a fantastic location to be able to present the awards to this year’s Business Challenge runners. We enjoyed a great insight into the day-to-day running of the service and would like to thank East Anglian Air Ambulance for hosting the presentation, they were such a great cause to run for! I would also like to congratulate all the runners who took part this year, and thank the runners, organisers and volunteers for once again making this event so successful.”
On Sunday 7 April, just under 2,000 runners took part in the MHA Larking Gowen City of Norwich Half Marathon. Thirteen teams entered the Business Challenge, an inter-company ‘best time’ competition held within the main race. If you would like to know more about East Anglian Air Ambulance or make a donation please visit www.eaaa.org.uk
Top 3 places of 13 teams
Company
Collective Time
1
MHA Larking Gowen
04:31:01
2
Barratt & Cooke A team
04:39:26
3
WorleyParsons
04:50:52
Photo; (Left to right) Captain Steve Norris, Director of Operations Matthew Jones, Critical Care Paramedic Rod Wells, Doctor Natalie Lonsdaleof the East Anglian Air Ambulance and Jo Fox, Director at MHA Larking Gowen (centre) with the winning team members Adam Pearce, Tim Angell and Chris Yeates.