Member News

What Are Recruiters Looking For When You’re Applying for Roles?

Let’s cut to the chase—recruiters are no longer just looking for your typical suit-and-tie, resume-touting candidate. They want the real deal. Here’s what will make you stand out in today’s job market:

1. Skills and Experience: Sure, knowing your stuff is still key. But don’t just list your skills—show them off! Put it front and centre.
2. Soft Skills: Think you can coast by on technical skills alone? Think again. Communication, problem-solving, and teamwork are non-negotiable. Show you’re not just a cog in the machine, but someone who makes the whole engine run smoother.
3. Cultural Fit: Are you a match for the company’s vibe? Do your values align with theirs? Pro tip: Do your homework. If the company’s all about innovation, show how you’ve been a trailblazer in your past roles.
4. Adaptability: The only constant is change. Whether it’s picking up new tools or shifting gears on a project, your ability to adapt is a hot commodity.
5. Digital Know-How: In case you missed the memo, we’re in the digital age. Being savvy with the latest tech isn’t optional; it’s expected. From project management software to social media smarts, show you can handle the digital landscape.

How the Next Generation is Shaping the Construction Industry

Forget the old stereotypes of construction being all about hard hats and heavy lifting. The new generation is turning the industry on its head with some seriously cool innovations:

1. Tech Titans: Young pros are bringing in the big guns—think AI, drones etc.. This isn’t your granddad’s construction site.
2. Green Giants: Sustainability isn’t just a buzzword. The new kids on the block are all about eco-friendly practices, pushing for green buildings and reducing the carbon footprint. It’s not just about building; it’s about building smart.
3. Diversity Champions: Say goodbye to the old boys’ club. The next-gen is making the industry more inclusive and diverse, ensuring a variety of voices and ideas contribute to the future of construction.
4. Collaboration Kings and Queens: Teamwork makes the dream work. The younger crowd values collaboration and flexibility, fostering a work environment where ideas flow freely and innovation thrives.
5. Learning Machines: Continuous improvement is the name of the game. They’re not just resting on their laurels—they’re constantly upskilling and staying ahead of the curve.

Construction: The New Sexy Industry to Be In?

Yep, you read that right. Construction is the new sexy. Here’s why it’s turning heads:

1. Innovation Central: With smart buildings, sustainable practices, and the latest tech, construction is where innovation happens. It’s not just about laying bricks; it’s about creating the future.
2. Impact Players: Want a job where you can literally see the fruits of your labour? Construction lets you build things that last, shaping skylines and communities.
3. Career Bonanza: From project managers to sustainability consultants, the opportunities are endless. And guess what? The money is pretty mega too!.
4. Dynamic Days: Ditch the cubicle. Construction offers a variety of tasks and settings, keeping things fresh and exciting.
5. Competitive Edge: As demand for skilled workers rises, so do the perks. Competitive salaries and benefits packages are making the industry more enticing than ever.

Office Jobs Are Out, Construction Is In

The nine-to-five grind in a cubicle? So last decade. Here’s why construction is where it’s at:

1. Real Impact: Office jobs can feel like you’re just pushing paper. In construction, you’re building something real and lasting.
2. Health and Activity: Tired of sitting all day? Construction keeps you on the move, promoting a healthier lifestyle.
3. Flexibility and Adventure: With opportunities to work on diverse projects in different locations, every day is an adventure.
4. Hands-On Experience: Prefer doing over talking? Construction gives you the chance to get your hands dirty and see immediate results.
5. Resilient Careers: Automation is coming for many office jobs, but skilled construction work? That’s not going anywhere soon.

The job market is evolving, and the construction industry is emerging as a powerhouse of innovation and opportunity. Whether you’re looking to make a big career move or just want to know where the future is headed, construction is the place to be. So gear up, get out there, and start building your future—literally.

View the quarterly report here: https://www.norfolkchamber.co.uk/wp-content/uploads/2024/07/Quarterly-Report-April-June-2024.pdf

Wingfield Consultants have been very successul recently in gaining national and local recognition for the work they do.  They have received SEVEN wins, nominations, and shortlist positions in 2024 so far.  These are the CorporateLiveWire Global Awards 2023-24 win for Business Consultancy of the Year – UK win, The National Mentoring Awards – Excellence in Mentoring Award win (for Simon Wingfield), the SME News Business Elite Awards win for Best Business Growth Solutions Consultancy (East of England), the StartUp Awards finalist for Business Consulting & Management StartUp of the Year (East of England), the British Business Awards finalist for Small Business of the Year, the Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards finalist for Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year (East of England), and the Business Awards UK shortlist (for Norfolk).  Simon Wingfield, Founder of Wingfield Consultants, said: ‘These award recognitions keep rolling in this year! Our business model of 80% paying clients and 20% pro bono supporting local communities, charities, and businesses is one we have stuck to. Why? Because ‘People don’t buy what you do; they buy why you do it. And what you do simply proves what you believe’ (Simon Sinek, Start with Why: How Great Leaders Inspire Everyone to Take Action’). These recognitions show that our model resonates with our clients and the award judges.’  News Coverage Wingfield Consultants celebrates string of industry awards | Eastern Daily Press (edp24.co.uk) Wingfield Consultants celebrates string of industry awards | Wymondham & Attleborough Mercury (wymondhamandattleboroughmercury.co.uk) Press Releases Business Awards UK 2024 – Norfolk Business Awards (Shortlisted) StartUp Awards 2024 – Business Consulting & Management StartUp of the Year East of England (Finalist) The Allica Bank Great British Entrepreneur Awards 2024 – Scale-Up Entrepreneur of the Year East of England (Finalist) The British Business Awards 2024 – Small Business of the Year (Finalist)

Photo caption: Ryan Marshall (left) has been announced as joint managing director of Anglian Demolition & Asbestos, alongside founder Lee Storer (right).

Norfolk based contracting and waste management company Anglian Demolition & Asbestos, has announced the appointment of a new managing director, as the company looks ahead to an ambitious future.

With immediate effect, Ryan Marshall, director of waste and recycling, will be promoted to joint managing director. Working alongside Lee Storer, existing managing director and founder of Anglian, Ryan will focus on driving growth in the waste business and continuing to systemise and optimise Anglian’s business divisions and support functions.

Ryan joined Anglian in September 2022 as senior environment and waste manager, before being promoted into a director role in December 2023. Anglian’s waste division is currently the fastest growing waste management company in the region, which sits alongside the business’s other specialisms including demolition, asbestos services, earthworks and scaffolding.

After a transition period of around six to nine months, Ryan is expected to assume sole managing director role in 2025, with Lee Storer becoming executive chairman where he will direct the board strategically.

Lee Storer, joint managing director of Anglian Demolition & Asbestos, said: “I am delighted to announce these senior promotions as we prepare Anglian for its next stage of development. This is an exciting step forward and reflects the Board’s ambition for growth and our desire to build an outstanding business, providing opportunities for staff to grow, develop and be part of a company that we are all proud of. Ryan has been instrumental in driving forward our waste division since joining us in 2022 and I am pleased to be working alongside him in the joint managing director role as we transition into the next phase at Anglian.”

Ryan Marshall, joint managing director of Anglian Demolition & Asbestos, said: “Anglian is a fantastic business which has been trading successfully for 17 years and has exceptional potential for future growth. I am looking forward to taking the helm with Lee as we build out our ambitions of being the contracting, waste and recycling partner of choice across East Anglia.”

Established in 2007, Anglian Demolition & Asbestos is East Anglia’s leading multi-service contractor, covering all manner of public and private projects with services including dismantling, traditional demolition, high reach demolition, scaffolding, material handling, waste management and environmental remediation. The company, which employs more than 100 staff at its premises in Attleborough, was awarded Large Business of the Year in the EDP Business Awards 2022. To find out more, see www.angliandemo.co.uk

Howes Percival advises on acquisition for US-based car retail group Another major deal for dedicated automotive team.

Howes Percival’s dedicated automotive sector team has acted for Fortune 300 US-based automotive retailer Group 1 Automotive UK Limited on its acquisition of four Mercedes-Benz dealerships at Bishop’s Stortford, Hemel Hempstead, Hertford, and Stevenage from L&L Automotive.

The deal follows a series of high-profile transactions from the Automotive team, including acting for dealership groups Steven Eagell, Listers and FRF on their purchase of Motorline Limited’s entire network of 19 Toyota and Lexus dealerships last year.

The firm’s expertise in the automotive retail sector and depth of resource were again key to the success of the latest transaction.

Led by Corporate partner and head of Automotive, Tom Redman, the Howes Percival team included Corporate lawyers Ben Hancox, Bradley Johnson, Olivia Robinson and Shivani Sehmi. Marcus Carter, Graham Jones and Charlotte Harrison looked after Property, while Employment Law was handled by Hannah Pryce, Sobia Ahmad and Anna Bithrey.

Commercial law was handled by Mayoori Ravichandran, with Zara Khan and Stephen Ruse looking after IP matters. Robert Starr (Regulatory), Bilal Ehsan (Immigration) and Simon Franklin (Construction) completed the Howes Percival team.

Tom Redman commented, “We are absolutely delighted to have acted for Group 1 Automotive on this acquisition. Once again, we were glad to be able to offer the depth of resource and specialist automotive-retail knowledge necessary to deliver a multi-site transaction as we continue to support Group 1 with the expansion of its UK operations. We wish them every success as they integrate the new dealerships into their existing portfolio.”

Hill Dickinson acted for the sellers. Birketts acted for senior management. Freeths acted for MBFS. CMS acted for Bank of East Asia.

For more information on Howes Percival’s services to the automotive sector, visit: Trusted Automotive Solicitors – Howes Percival

His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh speaks to (from left to right) Dr Natasha Grist and Hileena Chloe – photo credited to Dr Johanna Forster, UEA * Poul Hoveson, Deputy President of the Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (and Director of Farming, Holkham Estate) with Hileena Chole. Poul formally announced Hileena’s scholarship at a ceremony at the Royal Norfolk Show on Wednesday 27 June.

A new scholarship to help local farmers manage the challenges of climate change was announced at the Royal Norfolk Show last week (on Wednesday 26 June) – as part of a partnership between The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association (RNAA) and the Norwich Institute for Sustainable Development (NISD).

The Norfolk International Scholarship, generously supported by the JC Mann Charitable Trust, provides funding for a scholar to undertake overseas research that will benefit farmers and growers in Norfolk. The scholarship has been awarded in this first year pilot phase to research student Hileena Chole. This will enable Hileena to travel overseas and look at best practice when examining the issue of water management in agriculture as part of her Master of the Arts (MA) in Agriculture and Rural Development at the University of East Anglia (UEA).

Hileena attended a special reception at the Royal Norfolk Show (on Thursday 27 June) where she met His Royal Highness The Duke of Edinburgh. She said: “It was such an honour to meet The Duke of Edinburgh and we spoke for a few minutes. He was very interested to hear about the scholarship and we also spoke about the agricultural issues in Ethiopia, where I’m from. I’m excited to be first recipient of this new scholarship and it is great to be working on something that’s so interesting and of practical value to local farmers.”

The scholarship is set up to respond to urgent current issues that Norfolk farmers face and this year will look at water. Tim Papworth, irrigation practitioner, contract farmer and Chairman of the Norfolk branch of the National Farmers’ Union, said: “We need to understand how to get water in the right places at the right times. There are urgent issues in Norfolk around drought, and flooding, both of which lead to crop loss. With better planning and infrastructure, water can be stored from rainfall events for later use. We hope to use this first pilot scholar support to investigate how this is done cooperatively in other parts of Europe and bring the best of that learning back to Norfolk.”

Mark Nicholas MBE DL, Managing Director of The Royal Norfolk Agricultural Association, commented: “We’re delighted to have set up this new annual scholarship in partnership with the Norwich Institute for Sustainable Development, and with the generous support of the JC Mann Charitable Trust. With a changing climate, it’s vital that we support the next generation of leaders in agriculture to find solutions to the challenges that we face, such as water management.”

Professor Nitya Rao, Director of the Norwich Institute for Sustainable Development, said: “This scholarship marks our commitment to working across geographical and subject boundaries to look at how we can help famers to address practical problems. Our experts from the UEA and the internationally-renowned Norwich Research Park work closely with famers and rural communities and help support food security and sustainability.”

Native Origin, a Norfolk-based production company, has generously donated a unique prize for the upcoming Suffolk Mind Midsummer Celebration. The lucky winner will receive a bespoke short documentary of a family member, a lasting memento to cherish for years to come.

The prize, part of Native Origin’s ‘Cinematic Micro’ package (valued at £1500), includes a 4-5 minute film and a complete interview. The documentary will be shot on cinema-grade cameras and vintage lenses, with the potential inclusion of aerial cinematography via drone, depending on the suitability of the location. A Native Origin portrait documentary is a cinematic film that captures the stories, character, and wisdom of a family member, preserving them for future generations. The aim is to vividly and beautifully capture a person’s life, showcasing their interests and defining characteristics. Julie Long, Fundraising Manager at Suffolk Mind said: “We are always grateful for any gift in kind donations for our gala event, but particularly like those where we feel they help people meet one or more of the 12 emotional needs which our approach advocates should be met roughly in balance, to stay well. James’ service, we feel, has the potential to help people meet several of these. For example, the need for connection (as they explore memories and make memories), attention (having time to reflect on the part they play in the family) and status (knowing their place and how they fit). We are sure needs for achievement and meaning and purpose are also met, as people come to realise how precious their family unit is. Thank you, James, for such a meaningful prize.” The Midsummer Celebration, Suffolk Mind’s second annual charity ball, will occur at Fynn Valley Terrace near Ipswich on Saturday, July 13, 2024, from 6pm. Attendees can look forward to a night of live entertainment, unique experiences, and a Mediterranean theme, all set against the stunning backdrop of Fynn Valley. The gala will also feature garden games, Grand Prix races, a raffle, silent auction, and much more. One of the raffle prizes includes a luxury 6-night cruise, generously donated by Fred Olsen Cruise Lines. For more information about Native Origin and their services, visit their website. More details about Suffolk Mind and its initiatives are available on the Suffolk Mind website.

We often spend so much time hiding behind our screens, sitting at our desk, and spending hours on calls, that we forget the single greatest place for learning, creativity and growth. There is considerable research that shows how being outdoors can benefit our physical and mental health and boost productivity. According to a study by the University of Exeter, spending just 2 hours a week in nature is linked to better health and wellbeing. Time spent in the natural world not only relieves stress, but leaves us feeling more refreshed and energetic. Green Light Trust is a registered charity and leading provider of educational and wellbeing programmes in nature for children, young people and adults across East Anglia.  We have three sites in Norfolk at Blickling Estate, Oxburgh Hall and Strumpshaw Fen. Our Woodland Team days offer your team the opportunity to destress, reconnect with others and develop skills such as collaboration and problem solving. If you are looking for a chance to have a fun team day out the office whilst conserving the natural environment and supporting a great cause, send an email to corporates@greenlighttrust.org.

Southgate Global, a King’s Lynn based leader in the supply of packing equipment, consumables and servicing in operational logistics and fulfilment, has been selected to share its expertise and insight at the UK’s only sustainable packaging event. With more than one-third of adults favouring brands with eco-friendly business practices, sustainability has become a key conversation for organisations within e-commerce, manufacturing, retail and logistics.[1] Recognising the environmental challenges the sector faces, Southgate Global has for some time been looking at innovative packaging solutions, as well as working with its suppliers and customers to reduce its environmental impact. Now in its sixth year, the Environmental Packaging Summit brings together experts from leading industry associations, major brands, manufacturers and logistics operators from across the supply chain. This year the event includes blue chip names such as DHL and Coca Cola, who will showcase innovations in the sector. The two-day event will take place at the Park Plaza Victoria London (June 26-27) with intense discussions on innovations, developments, and challenges within the packaging industry, with conversations spanning packaging material choice to how developments in government legislation will impact organisations across the supply chain. Southgate Global’s CEO Dan Brasier will be part of a panel discussion, alongside other leaders, on the topic of ‘Visions for Sustainability’. He said: “We’re pleased to have been selected to share our expertise and insights at the Environmental Packaging Summit, where we can share best practice and our sustainability plans for the future. “We’re very aware of our environmental responsibility and it informs everything we do. Whether it’s design, development, manufacture, or delivery, we’re constantly striving to meet our customers’ end-to-end needs, while causing the least possible harm to our planet, and making it as easy as possible for our customers to do the same. “We’re seeing increasing demands for sustainability across the supply chain from brands and retailers. There is also pressure from the consumer too, according to the Sustainable Consumer report by Deloitte a third (34 per cent) of consumers stated that their trust in brands would be improved if they were recognised as an ethical and sustainable provider. This is why it’s more important than ever that we continue to search for ways to reduce the industry’s carbon footprint. “We have some big targets at Southgate, we’re working to reduce and rebalance our greenhouse gas emissions and we recently secured neutrality for scopes 1 and 2 in partnership with One Carbon World. But we also understand how equally important it is to focus on the changes we can make in the present, such as helping customers renovate rather than replace their equipment. “The event is an excellent opportunity to explore innovate ways the industry can work together towards carbon neutrality.” The Environmental Packaging Summit will explore the pressing issues around sustainability, with speaker sessions and panel discussions helping attendees broaden their knowledge of sustainable challenges and opportunities within the packaging industry. Southgate Global is an international company which are leading specialists in packaging equipment, consumables, and servicing for operational logistics and fulfilment, with the mission of helping organisations in the sector boost productivity and efficiency in their operations.

Peerless Plastics & Coatings is proud to announce that its Managing Director, Mr. Peter Llewellyn-Stamp, has been awarded the prestigious title of “Plastics Manufacturing MD of the Year 2024.” This esteemed recognition, presented by SME News, highlights Mr. Llewellyn-Stamp’s outstanding leadership, vision, and contributions to the plastics manufacturing industry.

Mr. Llewellyn-Stamp has been at the helm of Peerless Plastics & Coatings for six years guiding the company to new heights through his commitment to innovation, sustainability, and excellence. Under his leadership, Peerless Plastics & Coatings has introduced pioneering products like PolyGuard™ (among others), a revolutionary hard-coated plastic solution that significantly extends the usable life of plastic products while addressing critical sustainability concerns.

Key Factors for Recognition:

• Innovation: Mr. Llewellyn-Stamp has driven the development and successful market launch of several new coatings including PolyGuard™, setting new standards for protective coatings in the plastics industry.

• Sustainability: He has championed sustainable practices within the company, including the use of UV curing technology and the installation of solar panels, reinforcing Peerless Plastics & Coatings’ commitment to environmental responsibility.

• Growth and Expansion: His strategic vision has led to significant expansion of the company’s global distribution network, with a focus on establishing strong partnerships and enhancing brand recognition in key markets around the world.

• Customer Focus: Mr. Llewellyn-Stamp has fostered a customer-centric approach, ensuring that Peerless Plastics & Coatings delivers bespoke solutions that meet, and exceed, the specific needs of diverse industries.

“I am deeply honoured to receive this award,” said Mr Peter Llewellyn-Stamp, MD of Peerless Plastics & Coatings. “It reflects the hard work and dedication of our entire team at Peerless Plastics & Coatings.

Together, we have made significant strides in advancing the plastics manufacturing industry, and I amexcited about the future as we continue to innovate and lead with sustainability at the forefront of our efforts.”

Peerless Plastics & Coatings, under Mr. Llewellyn-Stamp’s leadership, serves a wide range of industries including construction, manufacturing, electronics, healthcare, automotive, rail, aerospace, retail, offshore gas & oil, and agriculture. The company’s commitment to quality, innovation, and customer satisfaction has earned it a reputation as a trusted leader in the industry.

Awards Coordinator Kaven Cooper took a moment to comment on the success of the diverse programme: “It’s great to recognise the accomplishments of our winners as some add yet another award to their roster. And for those who are winning their first accolade, it’s fantastic to be part of the journey that is opening up in front of them as they carve out a unique path for themselves. I wish each of our winners a highly successful future as they continue to improve their integral sectors.”

SME News prides itself on the validity of its awards and winners. The awards are given solely on merit and are awarded to commend those most deserving for their ingenuity and hard work, distinguishing them from their competitors and proving them worthy of recognition.

To read more about the nomination, please visit: https://www.sme-news.co.uk/issues/managing-director-of-the-year-awards-2024/46/

First Intuition, the award-winning accountancy training provider, is proud to announce the release of its fourth annual Accountancy Salary Guide, a thorough report aimed at informing employers in East Anglia about average salaries for trainee and qualified accountants. The report also highlights the rewards and benefits businesses offer, key industry recruitment and retention trends, and changes over time. Drawing from over 150 survey responses from clients based in East Anglia, this year’s report offers valuable insights into the current state of the accountancy job market in the region. The survey, conducted from March to April 2024, focuses on five key themes: ‘Average Salaries’, ‘Rewards and Benefits’, ‘Retention’, ‘Recruitment’, and ‘Personal Factors’. These themes provide a well-rounded view of the factors impacting employers and employees in the accountancy sector. Key Findings from the 2024 Report:

• Average Salary: The average salary across all levels of accountancy in East Anglia is £31,182, reflecting a 4.2% increase over 12 months.
• AAT vs. Graduate Salary: Newly Qualified AAT staff earn 14.2% more than Graduates at a similar age.
• Industry vs. Practice: Professionals in Industry earn, on average, 18.9% (£4,116) more than those in Practice.
• Specialisms: Tax & Audit have seen the greatest salary increases according to employers.
• Retention Challenges: 26% of respondents reported difficulties in retaining staff, with Newly Qualified staff being the most challenging to retain.
• Recruitment Difficulties: 65% of employers are finding it difficult to recruit staff, with the most challenges in Practice (73%) compared to Industry (62%). The hardest positions to fill are those for 2 Years Post-qualified and Newly Qualified accountants.
• Hiring Trends: 33% of employers increased the number of accountants hired from 2023 to 2024.
• Apprenticeship Preference: 56% of employers prefer apprenticeship programmes over commercial programmes.
• Skills Gap: 47% of employers feel that the written communication skills of entry-level staff do not meet their expectations.
• Flexible Working: 90% of employers offer flexible hybrid working options, and 70% offer flexible working hours.
• Social Responsibility: 70% of businesses actively support a social issue or cause.

This report serves as a valuable benchmark for salaries in the accountancy industry and provides insight into competitive benefits and working conditions offered by other employers in the region. First Intuition hopes by understanding these trends, businesses can better strategise to attract and retain top talent in an increasingly competitive market. First Intuition Chief Executive Gareth John comments “The First Intuition accountancy salary guide is an increasingly important part of the salary setting process of employers of accountants across East Anglia. Our clients frequently tell me how useful and informative it is. This year the format of the report has evolved even further to govern an astonishing range of data, but in an easily accessible way.” First Intuition continues to support the accountancy profession with high-quality training for AAT, ACCA, CIMA, and ICAEW qualifications, alongside a wide range of finance-focused programmes. Their commitment to student success and client service remains unparalleled, as evidenced by the free informative resources and events they offer. You can download the full East Anglia Accountancy Salary Guide 2024 here: https://www.firstintuition.co.uk/accountancy-salary-guide-2024/. Visit First Intuition for more information and to access additional resources for accountancy professionals.

So last week we celebrated Spider being 11 years in business! Nominate your Charity! Read on…..

During the last 11 years, we have built our reputation as the region’s dedicated multi-job board advertiser, offering SME’s a fixed fee way of advertising and recruiting great candidates online…Fast forward 11 years and we have helped 1000’s of companies recruit talent and support on average 60 recruitment campaigns every month. We are super proud that we have an 84% success rate of finding the right person for the role regardless of sector or location. Fixed fee, multi-job-board advertising is definitely here to stay!

We’re also keen to have some advice from our LinkedIn friends. We know that running a business is incredibly tough and sadly Charities across the region seem to be struggling more than most sectors. To celebrate our 11th year, we would like to support one Charity a month for the next 11 months with a free recruitment advertising campaign to help them find their next Superstar. As much as we are unable to help every Charity with every role, we’re hoping that a little Spider love could help ease some of the financial burden. What Charity would you nominate?

Visit Michelle (MD of Spider & Polkadotfrog) LinkedIn post here: So last week we celebrated Spider being 11 years in business!