BusinessBulletin OCTOBER 2016

Economy focus NEGOTIATING THE BREXIT

PAGE | 06 PAGE | 12 PAGE | 19 PAGE | 24 ECONOMY COVER FEATURE FINDING WHAT'S IN STORE ENOUGH OF THE OUR FOCUS THE GEOPOLITICS NOSTRADAMUS FOR THE ECONOMY REFERENDUMS: THIS MONTH OF EUROPE BRIAN WILSON

Chamber Viewpoint

Who do you think you were kidding, Mr Osborne?

June 24, 2016: The virtual sandwich the current position provides the firm OCTOBER 2016 boards declared "the end of the world foundation on which to build our regional is nigh". renaissance. The UK had voted to leave the EU and our Levels of innovation and entrepreneurship economy would never recover from the are high and we are leading the way in shock. Scotland for business start-ups. Emergency budgets were pencilled in and Opportunity North East is putting the massive hikes in income tax, alcohol and foundations in place to anchor oil & gas CHAMBER VIEWPOINT | petrol duties as well as swingeing cuts to here for the long term while diversifying our the NHS and schools were inevitable and economy through a focus on food, drink & markets would spiral wildly downwards. agriculture, life sciences and tourism. Private Frazer would likely have whispered The City Centre Masterplan is gaining “We’re doooomed”. traction and a number of major infrastructure initiatives are underway with Corporal Jones might have responded: the Chamber estimating that in excess “Don’t panic”. of £4.8billion has been committed to live So, which of them would’ve been right? projects. A few short months on, what do economic What business needs at this time is as prospects look like for the UK, Scotland and much certainty, stability and confidence as for the Aberdeen city region? possible. At a UK level, the jury remains out and there The message from Chamber members is are still mixed messages but: clear and consistent - the only government priority must be to create the conditions • the FTSE 100 is at its highest mark since that will enable businesses to thrive. before the global financial crisis of 2008; That means focus and resources must • jobs are still being created and - overall - be single-mindedly directed towards unemployment is falling; greater strategic infrastructure investment, • August saw the biggest month-on-month developing the skills we need to sustain positive rebound in a quarter of a century growth, fair business taxation that does not in manufacturing sector confidence; limit entrepreneurship and investment and support for entering and trading in overseas • the value of sterling, although now markets. stabilising, is providing significant impetus for a much needed increase in net exports; No distractions. • we have record low interest rates which We are living in turbulent and dynamic seem to be prompting consumers to times and the final shape of Brexit spend rather than save. remains uncertain but the most successful organisations will Closer to home, some of the key indicators embrace this as an opportunity for the Scottish economy are not as bullish for creating and delivering as for the UK as a whole. positive disruptive change. Of course, one factor in this is the oil & gas Like the chaps from Dad’s Army, downturn which is being felt most acutely in business in the UK appears to be this region. “sticking it up ‘em” despite the Fundamentally, though, our economy in odds seemingly being stacked the North-east remains strong and even against it.

Russell Borthwick chief executive

3 We thank our Premier Partners Premier for their continued support of Partners the Chamber.

Want to learn more? Contact Liam Smyth, Membership Director T 01224 343920 E [email protected] 4 OCTOBER Contents 2016 Focus on Economy

Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce Features The Hub Exploration Drive Aberdeen Energy Park Bridge of Don Aberdeen AB23 8GX

T 01224 343900 E [email protected] www.agcc.co.uk

Affiliated Chambers Moray 12 Finding President Edel Harris Nostradamus T 01224 343911 E [email protected]

Bulletin Team

Editor Joanna Fraser T 01224 343926 E [email protected] 06 19 News Features The economics Graeme Smith Media Negotiating of productivity T 01224 275833 the Brexit growth

Advertising Jim Bruce T 01224 343905 E [email protected] Regulars PAGE | Design & Production POLICY UPDATE Keiran Smart Talking taxation 32 T 01224 343934 E [email protected] HOT TOPIC What is your nightmare scenario for 2017? 34

TRAINING & EVENTS CALENDAR Dates for your diary 36

ON THE MOVE Who is going places in the region? 38

INCLUDED IN YOUR MEMBER'S COPY 2016 Winners Review find it online at northernstarawards.co.uk

5 Scandi sceptics OCTOBER 2016 FEATURE |

UK

Eurozone

Ex Warsaw Pact

“You already have a very fragmented Europe and it is not going to be easy for Europe to come up with a consistent negotiating position with Britain” Shaun Riordan, principal consultant, Aurora

6 Economy feature

Negotiating OCTOBER 2016

the Brexit FEATURE |

THERE are two key messages for North-east businesses looking to take steps to ensure they are not adversely affected by Brexit, according to Shaun Riordan, an international expert on the analysis and management of geopolitical risk. Shaun, who is principal consultant with Chamber member Aurora Partners, believes they should be seeking advice, perhaps from a geopolitical mentor, on the direction Brexit negotiations are taking and also actively trying to influence the negotiations. The former British diplomat who served in New York, Taiwan, Beijing and Madrid, as well as the Hong Kong, Counter-Terrorism and Yugoslavia departments of the Foreign Office said: “No one knows what is going to happen, when it will happen and what it will mean. “You have to think about what’s happening in Europe because we don’t have the unified monolithic European Union of the Brexit campaign. “There is a European Union which is divided into three very different parts. “No one knows what “One is the Eurozone and then to the east you have the former Warsaw Pact countries which do not have the euro is going to happen, and probably never will. when it will happen “Either they will not meet the economic criteria - and the and what it will mean” only one likely to do so in the medium term is Poland - or if they do, they don’t want to join. Shaun Riordan, “They have very Eurosceptic governments who don’t want to leave the EU but they don’t like Brussels. principal consultant, “For example, there is a referendum in Hungary in October Aurora which is basically a referendum about not accepting European directives. “Then on the north-west, you have what you might call Scandinavian Euro sceptics – Denmark, Sweden which are not part of the euro, Britain and then those countries not even in the European Union like Norway and Iceland. “Then you have the Eurozone in the middle. “You already have a very fragmented Europe and it is not going to be easy for Europe to come up with a consistent negotiating position with Britain. “The tendency is for the Eurozone to become ever more integrated because that is how you save the euro but that is going to leave behind all the other countries.” 

7 Economy feature

 He said it wasn’t as straightforward they are working with Spanish as Britain simply walking away and fishermen to have their fish being Brexit could in itself be a trigger for a European fish and not British fish.

OCTOBER 2016 restructuring into a two-speed Europe “People may want to explore relocating with the very integrated Eurozone part of their production to be and the periphery with a much looser reclassified as European. relationship which Britain might just FEATURE | “People may click into. “The real problem is uncertainty, which is why they need geopolitical advice to “In other words there is nothing to understand the possibilities for Brexit. want to explore Brexit from,” he said “It might mean very little, it might relocating part of However, there were other models to mean some kind of Norway solution consider like Norway which is not a their production to where you still have access to the single member but trades with Europe. be reclassified as market but the government loses its He said that future developments influence, or it might be some other European” would be of considerable importance model. to the agricultural sector which exports “We are not going to start the formal so much to Europe, just as the fishing negotiations at least until January and Shaun Riordan, and food and drink sectors do. before then the British Government principal consultant, “It would be a very big concern if is going to be talking to all the other Aurora any more restrictions were placed on European governments trying to where they could sell their products, shape what the European negotiating particularly as we have just had position is going to be to try to restrictions on agricultural products influence it. going to Russia which has been very “That is really what companies in the damaging for the whole European North-east need to be watching – farming sector. what’s going on in these discussions, “Actually I don’t think that is going to what kind of direction is it going in and happen. then what kind of insurance policies do we need to take out, if any against the “The signs we are seeing both from future? the British side and to a very large extent on the European side is to find “It’s very dynamic situation and is a solution that enables free trade to changing all the time so you need to continue. have someone you can constantly talk with who can tell you how it looks like it “There is enormous pressure on Merkel, is developing. for example, from the German car industry who don’t want to lose one of “How do you influence the negotiations their most important markets.” and shape the outcome so it is favourable to the North-east and our He said companies could be looking at issues are taken care of? ways to insure themselves against the worst of any consequences. “This is a negotiation with the British Government on one side and 27 “For example you get a lot of Irish governments on the other and it may fishing vessels which, purely for well be worth trying to influence some practical reasons, land their fish directly of those 27 governments, particularly into Spanish ports not because of any those with whom you have a strong restrictions but because it avoids a long commercial relationship. lorry drive. “Diplomacy is no longer something “Scottish fishermen could perhaps be which can be left to the government.” exploring insurance policies whereby

8 service providers from both the Aberdeenshire and Tayside and regions. Aberdeenshire the both from providers service and manufacturers product safety-related include organisations Participating browsing. for area exhibition with an presentations, speaker and demonstrations ofpractical form the in content, Tayside educational The event combine will roof. one under specialists literature safety and demonstrations equipment specialists, PPE and workwear providers, training to access professionals QHSE to Angus-based allow College Angus and with Dundee have partnered XIC, specialists print Training Ltd safety and AquaTerra provider training safety and health practical organisers, event’s The Tayside 27. in to is held be Thursday, October on services, and products solutions, safety-related to showcasing event dedicated an Expo, Safety THE Tayside hits Expo Safety — award. ofthe recipient Scottish Year first ofthe the was award November. He in Planner Financial Management Money Times Financial the winning own his after on to up set decided He London. in working after to native Aberdeen his returned who Gibson Paul planner financial chartered and director by managing formed been has It Scotland. North-east in to clients advice offering now is and Authority Conduct Financial the from authorisation Ltd received has Planning Financial GRANITE doors its opens Planning Financial Granite News Member Granite Financial Planning Ltd managing director, Paul Gibson, Page 12 JAMES BREAM FINDING NOSTRADAMUS is really quite difficult" "Forecasting theeconomy

9 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 10 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 for Aberdeen's comedy festival comedy Aberdeen's for confirmed acts the of one Tom Stade, News Member to the A90. to A90. the on access with immediate centre city and harbour airport, the from equidistant strategically Corridor, Energetica gateway to Aberdeen’s atthe located is space of business sqft million to up 1.5 for capacity site with development 30-acre The Don, Aberdeen. of Bridge in Core atThe agent leasing joint as Savills appointed Capital has CLEARBELL Core agent time. Clark IT is one of only two Scottish firms to make it into the EMEA Top to EMEA 50. it into the make firms Scottish two ofonly one is IT Clark time. athird for Africa and East Middle the Top the in Europe, also is for IT 50 Clark Technology. by Penton published study and list 501 MSPmentor annual the in features arow in company year the fifth the For to MSPs. guide global influential ofan edition to latest the according world, the (MSPs) in IT for providers service managed progressive most the among ranked been has Technologies Integrated CLARK IT influence — provide service. this to able are Scotland in ofagencies ahandful Only programme. accreditation arigorous through going after to clients services video and photography aerial to drone provide qualified fully now is agency the Additionally, studio. aphotography as well as equipment, editing and recording filming, features team, design DF’s houses now which facility, The units. arched five firm’s ofthe two occupying now premises, Street College South ofits part larger to a office Communications DF ofthe part one from moved has agency The to grow. continues services its for demand as sixtimes by almost office size the of its expanded has Communications, DF specialist communications fixed and mobile by Aberdeen owned agency adesign CREATIVE, DF CreativeDF expansion — workshops. ofcomedy anumber and children for shows feature also will and Comedy ofBreakneck Hussain by Naz together put been has programme full The Monahan. Patrick Roadshow) and Comedy McIntyre’s (Michael Ava Kohli, Vidal Singh Hardeep News) Good Howard’s , (Russel Mair Roadshow),Evans (Comedy Bobby Tom Apollo), Live At on The (appeared Simon include Stade confirmed Acts 5. to 14 November October from centre city the throughout atovervenues 20 performing comedians international and national 250 than more event feature will inaugural the Inspired, by Aberdeen Spearheaded year. this later Aberdeen to laughs and talent ofstand-up ahost bring will festival comedy A NEW Comedy festival coming to town response themed courses. themed response spill oil of offering its strengthening with Cresent customers, for ofe-learning range increased to an lead will collaboration The partnership. training new a have announced cooperative, response spill oil global the (OSRL), Limited Response Spill Oil and specialists, safety and health and ofwork control CRESENT, partnership E-learning in Scotland. in offer all five compulsory modules to provider Training only the now is Maersk and sector renewables growing the to in work wishing anyone for requirements industry key ofthe one is GWO training Aberdeen. in centre atits available courses the making and locations training (GWO) Organisation Wind Global its Training expanding is MAERSK up picks wind Global visitors and staff from across Cornerstone’s services. Cornerstone’s across from staff and visitors for facility accessible and awelcoming provide will space waterfront ft 7,800sq new its and to development way anew make for closed was building the after Aberdeen in House atAtholl base previous its from relocated charity The West. Esplanade North on Court ofCenturion wings floor first south and north ofthe lease five-year initial an signed has Cornerstone workspace. previous ofits closure the following Aberdeen in office riverfront amove into anew, completed has Cornerstone charity care social SCOTTISH move Cornerstone — talent. region’s the to develop ofacommitment part as Wheeler Foster Amec from seconded been has who Geraghty, by Nadine out carried being is itself accreditation The roll-out. national to with aview apotential Government byScottish the monitored closely being is and ofCommerce Chamber &Grampian atAberdeen based team Young (DYW) the Workforce byDeveloping the designed been initiativehas The region. the in ofexcellence development the to support ofstandards set acore meet and people ofyoung employment the encourage which to partnerships awarded being is Accreditation Quality DYW The business. and education between oflinks standard the assessing is North-east the in scheme pilot A PIONEERING Testing between links schools and business and Elliott Rachel Nadine Geraghty Geraghty Nadine project manager of DYW of

11 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 Economy feature OCTOBER 2016 Finding FEATURE | Nostradamus

EARLIER this year, James Bream, the Chamber’s research and policy director, launched a competition for a select group of (equally geeky) members which, if successful, will have been a complete waste of time for the winner. The challenge is to find our “Chamber Nostradamus” and if that person exists he or she will have known since January that they are going to win. In fact, they will be one step ahead of the French apothecary and seer who published collections of prophecies because, having personally checked all 6,338 of his predictions, he didn’t even know the Chamber was going to run such a competition. James has been harbouring the idea of the Nostradamus contest for almost a decade when, while working for a consultancy, he entered an internal economic forecasting competition “for a laugh”. Although not a forecaster, he triumphed walking away with no prize but considerable kudos and few friends left in the forecasting department. “I thought it would be entertaining to do something similar for Chamber members. “At the turn of the year, people tend to be a little down so I thought I would make it a bit of fun, but with a serious side. “Forecasting the “Forecasting the economy is really quite difficult and I economy is really thought I would name it after the most famous forecaster of all – Nostradamus.” quite difficult” Michel de Nostredame (1503–1566) is credited with James Bream, predicting the Great Fire of London, the assassinations of the Kennedy brothers, the rise of Hitler, the defeat of Napoleon, Research and policy and other more recent activity. director, Aberdeen & Grampian Chamber of Commerce

12 Thinking independently together Danny Donald Page 16

Nostradamus

contenders OCTOBER 2016 FEATURE |

The expectation from Chamber remarkably, got the date of the EU members is slightly less and not as far referendum correct. in advance. “However all this was before the Brexit They are being asked to make 18 result which could have a significant predictions, from the price of Brent impact on a number of the forecasts.” Crude on December 31, 2016 and the Sitting pretty... James, who is striving to cement his FTSE 100 position on the same date, Alan Michie, place in history as a leading forecaster to the number of people claiming partner, by winning the competition himself, is unemployment benefit in the city and Ledingham Chalmers LLP clearly hoping that the impact will be shire at the end of the year. to shoot him up from the middle of the He has allowed personal interest to table where he is currently sitting. infiltrate the forecasts, asking for golfer “Next year, I hope to expand the Richie Ramsay’s world ranking at the Chamber Nostradamus competition end of the year and Aberdeen FC’s to is to make it bigger and bolder with point tally. perhaps a few more indicators and Just like many of the answers, a winner perhaps 100 entrants. is hard to predict. “There will be a prize for the winner “Brian Hay of Ledingham Chalmers but that will depend on the state of the took the early lead but he was economy at the end of the year and, overtaken by colleague Alan Michie and of course, most of us don’t know what Stephen Hepburn of the Clydesdale that will be.” Bank – one of five people who, EU referendum date... Stephen Hepburn, head of business & private banking centre, Clydesdale Bank

Thing we have discovered so far 1. Not one person forecast that the interest rate in the UK would fall by the end of the year

2. Less than a third think the price of Brent Crude will be above $50 by the end of the year

3. Four people forecast the Aberdeen & Shire unemployment claimant count would fall this year

4. Three people predicted a points total which would see Aberdeen FC in a relegation battle. Two had them in a title battle

5. Four correctly guessed the date of the EU referendum (23/6)…. We Early lead... should have asked about the result! Brian Hay, chief executive, We won 67 Olympic medals at Rio. The best guess was 70, the 6. Ledingham Chalmers LLP worst 27! Ye of little faith...

13 Opinion Padraig McCloskey

Shell Springboard to award OCTOBER 2016 £350,000 to most innovative

OPINION | | OPINION low-carbon enterprises

WILL your company be the (regional winner and 2012 finalist) – next to find that “Springboard” industrialised a unique fermentation moment? process to transform whisky by- products into next generation biofuels. The search is on for businesses with bright solutions to reduce carbon • The Environmental Building emissions and North-east enterprises Partnership Limited (EBP) from still have three weeks to enter this Aberdeen (regional winner and national competition. finalist 2007) - Market launch of the Energyflo™ cell – which was a Considering the North-east’s track groundbreaking product that replaced record on energy innovation and the conventional thermal insulation in breadth and versatility of companies in buildings. our Chamber area, I would very much like to encourage participation in this As well as funding, selected Shell well established programme. Springboard alumni also get access to exclusive Shell events, exhibits and This year, one national winner will workshops. receive £150,000 and a further five regional winners will each get £40,000 Previous winners participated in a of equity-free funding, as well as advice Shell-hosted Financial Times Executive from leading academics, investors and Dinner Forum and Make the Future by Padraig McCloskey, policymakers, to help scale-up their London – a festival of ideas and external relations, enterprises. innovation that took place at Queen Elizabeth Olympic Park. Shell UK & Chamber board Since the launch of Shell Springboard member in 2005, the programme has awarded Last year’s overall winner, Professor more than £3.5million to 92 enterprises Chris Rayner, founder of C-Capture, at the cutting edge of the low-carbon commented: “Winning Shell economy. Springboard provided a huge morale boost to the C-Capture team. The Almost 80% of supported companies award helped enhance our profile and remain in operation five years after credibility as we move through to full starting up, in contrast to a national commercialisation of our technology.” average of about 45%. C-Capture from Leeds is developing The big ideas coming out of these clean energy technology that captures businesses are not only helping to carbon dioxide (CO2) emissions from create a lower carbon future – they are different industrial gas streams. also supporting job creation and green growth . Reflecting on his own experiences of Springboard, Mark Simmers, Shell Springboard has supported CEO at Celtic Renewables, said: a wide range of some of the most “Shell Springboard is a fantastic exciting low-carbon UK businesses, endorsement of our business and including regional winners from will allow us to analyse, in real detail, Scotland: the best opportunities to deploy our • AlbaTERN Ltd from Edinburgh technology.” (regional winner and 2013 finalist) – So, there are many good reasons to wave energy technology. take part! • Supply Design Ltd from Fife (2013 Applications are open until Friday, regional winner) - High Efficiency 3 October 28, 2016. For more information Phase Power Conversion. and to apply, visit: • Celtic Renewables from Edinburgh www.shellspringboard.org 14 completion in 2018. 2018. in completion for due be will year, this later construction Starting Council. City Aberdeen Walk for atManor homes affordable 80 First Construction. Bancon Construction Ltd. will build Aviation and GAMA Council, City Aberdeen for including projects major several for work building secured has group Aberdeenshire-based of the division construction The sectors. private and public the in £20.5million totalling contracts new awarded been has Group BANCON celebratesBancon new contracts — apprentices. to support to dedicate internally resources have ofthe all necessarily not do but engineers or technicians hydraulic mechanical, electronic, electrical, as such disciplines technical in (MA) Scheme Apprenticeship Modern the in like to participate would which companies to assist Generation,” Next –the -“RedWave scheme support apprenticeship an launched RedWave also has markets. engineering and scientific the on focused be will which division technical ofanew REDWAVE launched ltd (Aberdeen) has RedWave initiatives — innovation. and technology latest the incorporate will and passengers to up 1,000 and both of acombination or HGVs, 16 or cars 127 to carry designed are and diesel marine and gas natural liquefied on operate can which vessels fuel” “dual be will ferries Ltd. The Assets Maritime Caledonian for ferries to 100m two cover deliveries contracts The (£14.4million). NOK160million than more worth Engineering Marine Ferguson fabricator, marine and shipbuilder Glasgow-based with the contracts installation and construction procurement, engineering, awarded been has Maritime KONGSBERG contract Ferry — together, ateam." as works tocouple but watch each how food to their taste just not opportunity gave an us semi-finalists with the kitchen training Entier the in time “Spending involved cooking. which competition ofthe element to an be had there so food good about passionate “I’m said: executive Bruce Peter chief Entier and Judge to them. significance personal had which ameal prepare to wereasked couples the where challenge, cook-off finale to grand the through it make would who to choose thousands voted their in then public general The winners. worthy be why would they explained which video ashort Facebook on sharing and by creating final competition the reached couples Three Castle. @Barra Barn The venue, Entier, wedding and specialist, by catering sponsored competition exclusive an wedding ofwinning dream their have realised Aberdeenshire Macduff, from Masson Frankie Youngson and Jacqueline couple ENGAGED come true makes dreams wedding Entier News Member Aberdeen Airport, expected to finish next April. April. next to finish expected Airport, Aberdeen Aviation at GAMA for centre reception and hangar ofanew construction the on started already Work has chief executive, Entier co-owner, and Berries Barra SarahStephen Frankie, Jacqueline, MacSween Ali Page 19 Prof Graeme Roy economy? What's instore for the executive chef, Entier, chef, executive Peter Bruce Peter

, , 15 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 Opinion Danny Donald

Thinking OCTOBER 2016 independently

OPINION | | OPINION together

“MANY different elements our chosen marketplaces continues to working together cohesively” change. is one definition of diversity One of the elements which is key to and, in our experience, it’s not getting to grips with this ongoing a bad ethos to have in a multi- evolution is innovation and current disciplined business such as ours. trading conditions give us the ideal opportunity to pause and re-evaluate. I have always strongly believed that corporate strength can be achieved Most importantly, the circumstances through business synergies, and the we face now create opportunities to try rewards are as multi-faceted as what and bring exciting new products and we have to offer – a broad portfolio of services to the table. services can increase your potential Whether this be working independently market and customer base, but it also or in collaboration with other like- minimises the potential risk of putting minded organisations, the opportunity all your eggs in one basket, as it were. to work with others is important in Our number one priority is to create a broadening corporate horizons and growing, sustainable, local business that something which should be explored can compete competitively on a global whenever and wherever possible. stage. Whilst it is important to keep a close by Danny Donald, I believe we occupy a unique place eye on traditionally successful arenas, managing director, within the Aberdeen business such as the North Sea, it is imperative Aiken Group community in terms of being that to help balance the fluctuations of independently owned and offering individual markets we look to diversify turnkey modular accommodation into new regions and we welcome solutions for the energy and other the possibilities presented by new sectors. geographic territory. In successfully developing a strong and In our case, this strategy has taken us to diverse business, it is crucial to nurture the likes of Algeria, Angola, Azerbaijan, a locally-based workforce which Canada, Equatorial Guinea, Ghana, Italy, embraces the concept – “thinking Libya, Malta, Mexico and Singapore and independently together”. we hope it will continue to open doors to new and exciting possibilities around Not only is this beneficial for company the world. sustainability, but it also benefits the wider community in creating a Moving forward, I believe that “thinking motivated, skilled workforce which independently together” will become understands their own individual remit increasingly important as our business and how their piece of work fits into evolves to face the challenges the larger corporate puzzle helping the presented by the current economic company to achieve the desired end climate. result. Each individual part of our business has Balance is also important and we must a vital role to play in bringing stability find equilibrium in supporting both and sustainability, and the synergies local and national infrastructures whilst between the different elements of our embracing and understanding the need portfolio will, I believe, stand us in good to innovate and invest as the shape of stead.

16 Full details of the Friends of Murcar campaign, including including campaign, of Murcar Friends ofthe Full details golf. in to part take background and of any age juniors for opportunities provides which Foundation Lawrie to Paul the donated be will campaign ofMurcar Friends by the raised amount final ofthe 10% development, youth for support keen with Murcar’s keeping in and, community golfing wider the on to have effect apositive expected is avenue as of Murcar development continued The to come. generations for best Scotland’s of one it remains ensure and course championship its to system enhance irrigation ofa new phase first the fund to £250,000 to raise looking is club Aberdeen-based The region. the in golfers towards young contributing while forward club the drive to campaign crowdfunding ofMurcar Friends its launching after with adifference, approach afundraising adopted has Links, Murcar clubs, golf links classic ofScotland’s ONE launched Friends of Murcar — maintenance and shutdowns. calibrations, unnecessary from year per ofpounds billions save will operators checks health meter intelligent These trends. and performance ongoing to tools monitor software mining data the-art state-of- develop will capability measurement flow NEL’s and ofRGU expertise science data combined The time. first the for to analysed be years 30 across data enabling system, infrastructure acquisition NEL’s upgrade will centre, data innovation funded government a Scottish Lab, Data The and University Gordon Robert NEL, between project joint The government. as well as industries, gas and oil and to energy the services measurement flow and testing measurement, research, consultancy, oftechnical provider aworld-class is NEL system. analysis and capture data meter flow astate-of-the-art to develop £400,000 investing is NEL investment analysisData project — of2016. end the before personnel 10 another for work secure and economy local into the to further invest plans company The environment. challenging the in operating companies to support solutions saving cost and optimisation maintenance for contracts of anumber acquiring business, in increase an seen recently has Energy Add environment. price low oil current the despite division, management integrity and asset its in years three next the for jobs the to secure company the have allowed into generation, power expansion and operators gas and oil additional two and BP include which wins, contract The wins. contract abroad and UK ofrecent aresult as to 55 Houston and Aberdeen in workforce its doubled provider, has consultancy upstream gas and oil international Energy, the ADD Oil & gas consultancy doubles workforce News Member murcarlinks.hubbub.net. at found be can donations, rewards and fundraising Add Energy's Aberdeen team is growing is team Aberdeen Energy's Add 17 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 AAB Monthly opinion

Insolvency Practitioner – OCTOBER 2016 what is that?

When people hear that an insolvency an expert sensitivity check to such practitioner (“IP”) is involved with a proposals, can be the difference company, it is usually in relation to between an early, positive response something akin to the recent failure of and a delayed, negative response. national chain British Home Stores. But AAB MONTHLY OPINION | Independent Business Reviews do we spend all of our time making employees redundant and selling off Such reviews are often instructed by assets? The answer is a resounding lenders, when there is a concern over no. However, the “other side” to an IP’s the viability of the business in the short- work rarely gets any public attention. term, and so a risk to that lender that their exposure is irrecoverable in an There is no question that our training insolvency scenario. and qualification process instils a mentality to deal with financial However, an independent review of the distress. However, the vast majority immediate projections for a business of IPs ply their trade in accountancy could be extremely useful for the firms, meaning a combination of business itself. When times are tough, skills can be brought to the table to it can be very difficult for business by Neil Dempsey, offer constructive, positive advice to owners to remain dispassionate and Director of Restructuring, businesses that seek that advice at a look at their business’ performance Anderson Anderson & Brown LLP stage that offers the rarest commodity without adding in a splash of optimism. in distressed scenarios – time. It is that splash that can lift a business to achieve new heights in the right Turnaround Advisory circumstances. However, it can be Sometimes cashflow is tight due to a that same splash that stops the over- change in the business model needing optimistic owner taking action to to be reflected in how the business is resolve issues before they become the financed. For example, key customers cause of business failure. imposing longer payment terms or IPs provide a dispassionate view on a change in regulation/legislation projected performance, allowing any requires additional compliance costs pinch points in the projected period to which cannot easily be passed onto be identified and a plan put in place to customers. Whilst the presentation of deal with them beforehand, rather than a proposal to existing/new financiers is firefighting the issue when it arrives, or something well within the domain of, potentially worse. say, a Corporate Finance department, perhaps the position is so time-critical, These are just two examples of where that business failure might result from a professional advice, coupled with the delayed injection of funds? expertise of an IP, can deliver positive outcomes. IPs can add an additional point of view – what is the potential outcome And you thought we were just for financiers if things do not go as corporate undertakers…? predicted? Providing the comfort of

18 Economy feature

The economics of productivity growth OCTOBER 2016

THE key priorities in the short term for the Scottish FEATURE | and UK economies are boosting business and consumer confidence and in the long term boosting productivity, Professor Graeme Roy, the recently appointed director of the Fraser of Allander Institute, has told Business Bulletin. He said the last 18 months have been challenging for the Scottish economy as the impact of the low oil price has weakened growth and cut jobs in both the North Sea and the wider supply chain across Scotland. “Confidence had been returning, however this has been turned on its head by the outcome of the EU referendum. “A period of relatively slow fragile growth is likely to continue for the next two to three years as our economy adjusts to life outside the EU. “In this context, economic policy – both UK and Scottish Government – has a vital role to play.” He said the short term boost to confidence will require a mix of short-term stimulus – continued low interest rates supported by tax cuts and new infrastructure spending – 

“A period of relatively slow fragile growth is likely to continue for the next two to three years as our economy adjusts to life outside the EU” Graeme Roy, director, Fraser Allander Institute

19 Economy feature

 and a clear demonstration that He said the Brexit vote had caused Scotland and the UK remain open for uncertainty in the economy because no

OCTOBER 2016 business with quick progress on new one really knows what it will mean. trade deals and retaining international “Businesses don’t yet know what life investment. will be like outside the EU.

FEATURE | “The Bank of England has taken action “On the one hand you could have a to stimulate the economy with the situation where, if you have full access “It is investment in interest rate cut, additional quantitative to the single market and all the various easing and the new Term Funding skills, investment economic linkages that go along with Scheme to ensure interest rates cuts that, the impact could be relatively in infrastructure, are passed through to businesses,” he marginal. investment in research said. “However, if you move to a model and innovation that “The ball is now really in the court of where you would be fully outside the the UK Government in terms of what will be crucial for our EU single market or even the Customs the new Chancellor does in his Autumn Union, the impact could be much more long-term economic Statement. significant. prospects” “Does he choose to go for a fiscal “Most economists would agree that stimulus to boost the economy and trade is a good thing, labour mobility Graeme Roy, combat any Brexit uncertainty given is a good thing, competition is a good that we are still borrowing and any director, thing, access to greater investment is a additional spending or tax cuts will only Fraser Allander Institute good thing and all these things could widen the deficit? He has a difficult be impacted on by the outcome of the balancing act.” EU Referendum and make achieving But in the long run, and once the the same level of growth that bit more uncertainty dissipates, what will be difficult. crucial will be boosting productivity “But in the short term, none of these growth. effects has actually happened and all Professor Roy pointed out that the US, we have had so far is uncertainty. for example, is 25% more productive “The North Sea oil and gas industry than Britain. may or may not be more or less “Even the French economy effectively impacted by Brexit than other sectors – produces in four days than we do although given its truly global focus it is in five. New initiatives that support likely to be more insulated than others. innovation, skills and investment will all “But given that we have been going be essential.” through a relatively challenging 18 He said there were a number of months in the sector, all this really does explanations as to why the UK lags is add another layer of uncertainty on behind other countries and Scotland top of an already challenging situation. lags behind the UK in productivity “There are other key issues for the but low levels of public and private North-east, like the future outlook investment is one of the key reasons. for the large number of EU students “It is investment in skills, investment in into Aberdeen University and Robert infrastructure, investment in research Gordon University as they obviously and innovation that will be crucial for make a positive contribution to the our long-term economic prospects. wider North-east economy. “Countries like Germany have been “Whilst the outlook is challenging, in able to get quite a lot of workplace the long-term what will be crucial is innovation and new products and how flexible we are to adapt to the procedures in place and high levels of new reality and take advantage of new R&D and we have not really been that opportunities – perhaps trading with good in doing that over the years.” other countries – that will undoubtedly emerge.”

20 over the last sixyears. last over the trade international in growth continual its for Jr Ross to John awarded was It July. in Queen the to meet Palace Buckingham attended representatives company and year this earlier award announced was recognised internationally The Road. Sinclair on factory new its open and Trade 2016 International Enterprise: for Queen’s Award the it with present Ltd,(Aberdeen) to officially Jr Ross John salmon, smoked Scottish oftraditional producer commercial oldest Scotland’s visited also has Adam, George Lord Provost ofAberdeen, THE International trade recognition — plans.” future ofour heart atthe much very are volunteers our and facility our within further offering our develop we athow can We’re looking contributions. their for thankful we’re and hugely community volunteer by our donated time on dependent are day. courses every Our do volunteers our work great the to Award testament is Queen’s “The said: Bellu Emma Executive Chief Absafe communities. their in work outstanding to recognise UK the across groups volunteer local to award given highest the is Service Award Voluntary for Queen’s The home. the in safety and cyberbullying safety, road including safety personal on focus which lessons engaging deliver volunteers, by its supported team, Absafe The education. safety for environment interactive and afun provides Absafe Adam. George by Lord Provost ofAberdeen Service Voluntary for Award Queen’s with the presented been has Absafe charity awareness SAFETY Award volunteer for work — policyholders. for to services provide industry insurance with the closely work will and tipping fly after up clearing as such services provide also will company The glass from public areas. or needles dropped removing as such services response emergency providing as of water, well as escapes or damage accidental fires, floods, following services restoration and cleaning provide will Grampian Clean ServiceMaster launch. to company’s the prior Leicestershire in Centre Support Franchise ServiceMaster atthe training substantial have undergone all family The develops.” business the as employment for opportunities yet ofus offer involve three all could that something to we wanted start and back to us move for right was time The we were involved work in. cleaning emergency the for competitors biggest ofour one was Clean ServiceMaster fact, in and 90s the throughout industry cleaning ofthe experience had “I said: McPhail Jim world, ServiceMaster Clean. the in franchises cleaning emergency and restoration disaster leading of the to one in invest decided Michael, son with their along McPhail, Christina and Jim Canada. of fields oil the in years 14 following business anew to tolaunch roots its back relocated has A FAMILY Aberdeen from to up familyclean hopes Returning News Member ServiceMaster Restoration Services UK Services Restoration ServiceMaster Dodds McPhail Christina and Jim Lord Provost George Adam George Provost Lord Bellu, Emma , brand operations manager for for manager operations , brand Enough ofthereferendums Page 24 Brian Wilson chief executive, Absafe and and Absafe executive, chief with Angus Angus 21 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016

Business Bites

Enough of the

OCTOBER 2016 referendums by Brian Wilson OPINION | | OPINION

REFERENDUMS are not a very In Moray, the gap was just 22 votes. satisfactory way of deciding It is a little strange to pretend that anything. substantial anti-EU minority does not One problem is that the question exist while sanctifying the right of the people answer is not necessarily the pro-independence minority in the 2014 one posed on the ballot paper. referendum to have a second bite at the cherry. Given the chance, some voters prefer to vent their feelings based on the Furthermore, diversity of opinion issue occupying their minds at the should not be measured only in moment in question. numbers. My personal score in recent The North-east fishing industry referendums is a one-all draw. I voted has long been a bastion of Scottish to stay in the United Kingdom and also nationalist support which appears to in the European Union. have voted overwhelmingly in favour of leaving the EU. I accept the result of the one that went against me and sincerely wish Because it is in a Scotland-wide that those for whom the earlier result minority, should its voice carry no contained a similar disappointment weight? would respond in the same way. Is it really plausible that an industry I fail to understand the argument that which felt so motivated about leaving because a majority in Scotland voted the EU for its own distinctive reasons to stay in the EU, this is justification now wants a referendum based on the for another referendum on the quite specific premise that Scotland must, Brian Wilson different subject of whether Scotland at all costs, get back into the EU? I doubt it. looks at the should remain in the UK. issues facing The presumption that those who voted Just as there are pro-Union people North-east Remain can be counted as a bloc in who wanted to stay in the EU, so there support of “IndyRef2” is plain daft. are Nationalist voters who are very business. A happy to leave it. journalist and In both instances, a majority voted for former Labour Scotland to remain part of something There is no genuine read across between the two issues. MP, he held five bigger. So where is the logic in asking us again if we want to be part of As Sir Ian Wood – himself a ministerial posts something smaller? including UK disappointed Remain voter - has pointed out, the uncertainty of a Energy Minister. The North-east represents an essential reminder that Scotland is far from further referendum could do serious He is now a being a monolith in any respect. damage to the Scottish economy at UK Business a time when everyone – particularly Ambassador, The city of Aberdeen recorded the in the North-east – should be national average vote of almost 40 per concentrating on its recovery. and chairman cent in favour of leaving. of Harris Tweed Talk of further referendums should be Hebrides This rose to just above and just below put on the backburner at least until we 45 per cent in Aberdeenshire and see what the post-Brexit settlement Angus respectively. looks like – and preferably for a great deal longer.

24 mathematics (STEM) practical activities and challenges. and activities practical (STEM) mathematics and engineering, technology, science, on ofhands arange in to participate chance with the visitors Centre Science Aberdeen provide will facility new The mission. Principia his during experiments conducted Peake Tim where and space in facility research European permanent first –the laboratory Station’s Columbus Space by International the inspired environment to is create athemed grant The Scheme. Grant Education Mission Principia 2016 ofthe part as Agency, Space UK the from grant education an awarded been has Centre Science ABERDEEN grant Space agency — staff. existing Alan’s and Milne James both by supported office Banchory the head will partner, Christie, Richard offices." Inverurie and Aberdeen our to complement Banchory in presence a having to forward looking are we and 22 years past the over firm strong avery up “Alan built has said: Bridgeford Graham partner Managing area. Banchory the in presence its to was expand intention the said Bridgeford Graham partner managing and Centre Business Banchory at movedintonewoffice has a firm The retiring. is years, 50 for profession the in been has who Alan, Howat. proprietor, the Alan from Banchory in Accountant Chartered ofAC Howat acquisition the completed has Accountants, Chartered Milne James firms, accountancy chartered established longest ofAberdeen’s ONE acquisition Banchory for James Milne News Member Milne Accountants Chartered and Howat Alan Richard Christie Richard , proprietor, AC Howat , proprietor, AC Howat , partner, James 25 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 MEDICAL FEATURE

Safety and savings For over 40 years, the testing conditions of the North Sea have has also unveiled the nurse-based medical process. ensured that only the very best medical protocols are put into This improved medical examination is undertaken by a fully- practice. qualified nurse, who is supervised by an OGUK-registered With the new realities that global energy markets have doctor. imposed, the oil and gas industry has to prioritise cost savings This gives patients a single contact while simultaneously while maintaining a safe working environment. allowing doctors to be reallocated to medical advisory or International SOS has innovated proactive client medical telemedicine roles if they are not required to assist the nurse. support measures to ensure that offshore and onshore At the end of each successful medical, an International SOS medical service provision continues to develop in this doctor reviews the findings and decides which certificate will challenging time. be issued. The leading medical service company has pioneered the And for those patients who are unable to meet a medic in provision of medical testing offshore, which enables both time person, the global TeleHealth services platform provides and money to be saved while maintaining the service level medical information, advice, and referrals at any hour of the expected from a high-quality international healthcare service. day to clients travelling or working abroad. This system is approved by representative energy industry body Oil and Gas UK (OGUK). Clients can also receive real-time information and advice from medical and security experts using internet video calling, Fully-trained medics conduct client medical check-ups ensuring maximum productivity at minimal cost. while stationed on the asset, ensuring that the medical can be conducted during the client’s time on the rig with no Underpinning all of this is International SOS’ certification from interruption to working routine. the British Standards Institution (BSI) in 2015, recognising the organisation’s commitment to quality of care and compliance In addition, a significant time saving is made as it lessens the to stringent ISO/TS 13131 measures. client’s time away from home and reduces the travel costs usually associated with a mainland medical examination. The breakthroughs made in offshore and onshore medical solutions underline International SOS’ continuing commitment Offshore medics also enjoy the full support and experience of to efficient global medical support. the onshore team of occupational therapists and a physician – with every test reviewed by an OGUK-approved doctor. International SOS operates a 24-hour team in 90 countries worldwide, using local expertise to fulfil care obligations no In addition to these offshore developments, International SOS matter where clients are.

26 Travel wise, travel well at the Aberdeen travel health clinic Are you going abroad? Either way, try to go at least 6 weeks before your trip – you might not be able to get all the immunisations you need in one Do you need travel vaccinations and malaria prevention? go, and some take a while to become fully effective. However, If you are travelling abroad, whether it’s for business or on last minute vaccinations are better than none at all! holiday, ensure you have all the necessary vaccinations and Tell the clinic staff where you’re going, if you’re pregnant (or medical advice before you go. thinking about getting pregnant) and whether you’re taking Before you go… children with you. It is essential to consider the potential health risks for the What kind of immunisations might I need? country you’re going to and seek professional medical advice at least 6 weeks before you travel to discuss any vaccinations • typhoid • yellow fever you might need. These will vary depending on what parts of • hepatitis A & B • meningiococcal meningitis the country you’ll be going to, the time of year, and what kind • meningitis C • japanese and tick-borne encephalitis of accommodation you’ll be staying in. • tetanus • rabies Where can I get more information and vaccinations? • polio • You may also need tablets for malaria Your doctor or practice nurse can give you advice and arrange • diphtheria prevention any immunisations and anti-malaria medication you need, or you can visit a specialist centre such as the travel health clinic at Charles Michie’s Pharmacy, 391 Union Street, Aberdeen.

Your dental care and support from the team at Queens Cross Dental According to reports from British Society of Dental Hygiene and Therapy, the UK economy loses almost £37million per year due to employees taking time off work because of dental problems. Further reports from a leading HR industry related journal reveal up 17% of employees take unplanned leave due to dental problems and emergencies. Our qualified and highly experienced team of clinicians at Queens Cross Dental have the expertise and flexibility to cater for a range of dental care situations – from organisations seeking one-off emergency dental care for their employees to patients requiring long term tailored dental solutions to improve their oral health. We are also able to provide dental health certification so you can be assured you are fit to work and any dental treatment required will be designed to reduce the risk of a possible dental emergency. Our associate dentist at Queens Cross Dental, Martin Ritchie (BDS), explains: “The main oral diseases are decay and gum disease – both of which are largely preventable. Inadequate oral hygiene is the main cause of gum disease and, together with poor diet, is the main cause of the development of dental decay. "Gum disease, left untreated, can lead to tooth loss, bad breath and other health issues so it’s important to see your dentist for regular checks ups to prevent the occurrence of a dental emergency. Also address any dental issues as minor problems can escalate into much more complex ones if left untreated.”

27 28 BUSINESS LESSONS | OCTOBER 2016 clients’ businesses. clients’ their for means by success what driven it is because mitigation risk real guarantees process four-stage innovative their accountability, shared on Focused search. talent and to key appointments and game-changing approach aunique presents FG Associates FG Associates director, Smith, Philip learned I’ve lessons Business We have done that, just listening to these people draws the innovative out out innovative the draws people to these listening just We that, have done can. you people successful and knowledgeable most with the out hang Answer, we learn? do you How sectors. and ofindustries avariety from clients to successful with many have worked fortunate we havethat been However, than elsewhere. more available not is that service guaranteed sharing, risk a we offering are realise will model business atour looks who anyone We we and innovative are believe fortunate. At we very FGA are yourwithin company? How you do generateinnovative from thinking oil. industry, one on we dependent however, are main, the in industry have indigenous We do to area. the industries other attract and to try leaders business and council oflocal up made force atask like to Iwould see Secondly, east. North- of the economy whole the impacts This security. job regarding over them hanging have many so had fear remove the would This return. confidence and astability see would turn in which price oil the in improvement Firstly, an work. and livewe where region the benefit would Ibelieve which to happen things like two Iwould Imay indulge If why?would and be it Scotland what North-east would benefit that tomorrow you happen If could thing make one with. associated are they all and do they everything on impact an has leadership their and inspirational informative, innovative, are leaders good up So,sum to decisions. difficult take to and make prepared are They clients. or team to their message unambiguous and aclear in vision that communicate can and have They vision others. in out best very the bring They inspire. and encourage who people are They markets. their and people their Understand understand. who people are leaders Good makes leader? What agood mention. to too many far all In unique. towns it truly ofthe make quaintness and scenery ofthe beauty absolute the where Deeside through up head can oftown out you Then are. buildings granite ofour some stunning how just granted for take We often so Gallery. Art atthe to knowledge your add then and history the up soaking hours spend can you where Aberdeen Old of parts are There favourite. one to just have difficult it very makes turn in which UK ofthe part abeautiful to live such We in fortunate are shire? or city What`s your favourite of Aberdeen part of you. Opinion Judith Thorpe

Are You Board? OCTOBER 2016

ONLY boring people suffer from and stand out from other job seekers | OPINION boredom is an adage I’ve been who are perhaps not as proactive or known to recite to my children. altruistic? But this premise applies to everyone, What future employer would not want and it can apply to organisations too. someone who had willingly volunteered their time or enhanced their executive As a vocal advocate of social or management skills in this way? responsibility I love a win-win situation. Introducing diversity can also introduce When invited to get involved in a disruption. project, I always consider whether I can actually add something useful and how Risk averse corporate boards tend I will gain from the experience, growing to shy away from disruption, but if personally in a way that I don’t in my we view it positively, as a process day-to-day professional life. which banishes herd mentality with insights coming from a wider variety of To date, it’s never been boring and perspectives it leads to transformative the breadth of experiences has been results. diverse. Thorpe Molloy Recruitment has I love a challenge and thrive on the recently collaborated with a local professional and personal opportunities charity which is actively seeking which keep my brain active, my ideas diversity on its board, with the fresh and introduce me to new, often chief executive citing the need for amazing, people. progressive thinkers who challenge her by Judith Thorpe, Given the environment we are all as a business imperative. director, working in, it is likely that you’ll know But, introducing diversity can be Thorpe Molloy Recruitment someone amazing. hampered, despite organisational best Someone professionally very capable, efforts, by a lack of choice. with experience to share and guidance My perception is that it is often the to convey who is actively seeking same people who choose to engage in employment. voluntary advisory roles. I have friends in this position who have This diminishes the range of confided that, amidst the myriad of backgrounds and interests which emotions they feel, one is boredom. organisations can benefit from and will, Rather than feeling bored, I’d love for ultimately, limit the breadth of ideas more of them to get on board. and innovation needed to succeed. The power of a diverse workforce is Yes, discrimination exists and the power firmly on the agenda of progressive of diversity is not embraced, which organisations across the world. is why events such as the Chamber’s Power of Diversity conference this I believe that now is the perfect time month are so important for initiating for the third sector to tap into the change. unexpectedly available local talent and enhance the depth and diversity of So often, we limit our own their boards and committees. opportunities, so if you do recognise the person I described earlier, challenge Equally for those who currently find them to be bold, not bored and find a themselves out of work, what better way to get on board. way to continue learning, utilise skills,

29 30 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 Jo Robinson Wands, Jim Martin Ingram, winner and founder of DiveSource BlueSky, Gordon Middleton, News Member commercial director at Mackie's director commercial VisitScotland and Sarah Hutcheon Dunnottar Castle Custodian, CastleDunnottar Custodian, , director, regional Original 106 presenter 106 Original Stuart Common finance director,finance , competition competition ,

, and

and in direct mail packs as part of the campaign. campaign. ofthe part as packs mail direct in and media in Underground, London the in advertising on featured has It campaign. in the Scotland of “spirit” the defining in role plays astarring Castle Dunnottar to them. means #ScotSpirit what world ofthe parts all from life, of walks all from people asking is organisation tourism national The community. online and approach marketing digital innovative ofan launch and advert TV website, brand, with anew own #ScotSpirit its revealed has VisitScotland launch. since of#ScotSpirit shares 160,000 than with more successful, hugely been already has It people. of the warmth the or landscapes of the magic the it’s –whether spirit aunique has Scotland think people the shows that research extensive on built is campaign pound multi-million The of Scotland. –Spirit movement social and campaign ever global biggest its launched year, this VisitScotland Earlier Aberdeenshire #ScotSpirit. and promoting campaign on-pack tub cream ice and online an for organisation tourism national with the up teamed has giant farming and food North-east The with VisitScotland. ofapromotion part as cream, ice Mackie’s of tubs one-litre 150,000 to is adorn Castle Dunnottar iconic ABERDEENSHIRE’S Ice shows cream of Spirit Scotland — Yarmouth. Great in facility its from services offuelling supply the for responsible be also will Peterson to security. walk work for ofpersonnel transportation and delivery provisions services, agency ship stevedoring, including services logistics comprehensive to deliver operator with the closely work will Peterson Sea. North Southern the in located windfarm offshore Dudgeon the for support with Statoil to logistics provide contracts term long two awarded been has Peterson provider logistics energy INTERNATIONAL Dudgeon windfarm support — 24. Unit on terms agreed has UK Energy Spark Blue 8. Unit suite at office asmall for up signed Wave has Lateral Limited, HSI ft. sq 1,000 over centre just to atthe floorspace total office company’s the taking occupies, it already units to four the addition in 2, Unit taking and up-sizing is occupier existing an Services, Network 4MS Park. Innovation Aberdeen Campus at on Centre Two Gregory James the at deals office three concluded has Parks &Innovation Energy ofAberdeen owner the Group, MOORFIELD Innovation Park deals — board. the from support business and rooms meeting space, office facilities, of use full the from benefit will and by November mid premises move will BlueSky into its DiveSource month. next courses training leading industry their to launch looking are and contracts profile ofhigh anumber ayear, landed have they already under just for Operating level. international atan industries renewable and gas and oil to the facilities audit dive crewand provision of offers currently DiveSource own. her on market to brave the needed skills the had she that decided Hutcheon Sarah founder DiveSource 2015, in company services with asubsea employment her Leaving centre. business the from ofsupport £20,000 away walked with has Sarah support, business Space’s Business BlueSky from benefit would why on DiveSource ofjudges to aboard pitching After winner. competition 106 Original and Space Business aBlueSky as announced was ofDiveSource Hutcheon SARAH divesSarah top prize to in lift ultimately, maximise their profits. their ultimately, maximise and, improve workflow control, take to with astrategy them supporting and expenditure print current their of extent the understand to fully businesses in helping specialising by achieved been has This customer proposition. oftheir centre atthe servicing technology products and local high latest, very the offering ofScotland, north the in solutions document and print of integrated suppliers largest the are Highland Danwood Grampian and Danwood Danwood manager, regional John Innes, learned I’ve lessons Business How do you measure success? the fishing fleets have, as it was something I never had the nerve to do. do. to nerve the had never I something was as it have, fleets fishing the courage much how me amaze to neverceases it and fishermen currently are Both of encounter.brothers my I will place first always the nearly is atowncity, the visiting this or Whenever North-east. the in harbours always (for drawn Iam whatever reason) to ofthe all industry. the in areinvolved still and were family whole my son, fisherman’s aformer As community a much needed boost. boost. needed amuch community local in the businesses all provide to effect knock-on with the sectors all in jobs create more it would up, werefreed these If government. by local up held being currently developments of local thousands be must There greatly. benefit would north ofthe whole the then red-tape, with less manner, time-consuming aless in completed wereall processes If projects. major kick-starting for time-consuming so is government local from a whole, as Scotland in but North-east, the in only not process, planning the that Ifeel sectors, all in companies with many meeting after myIn travels and why?would and be it what Scotland, North-east would benefit that tomorrow you happen If could thing make one is earned”. it demanded, not is company the within from “respect is favourite quotes ofmy One leader. agood make Ibelieve which key ofthe points some are wrong something have you done when admit and up hand your to hold able being and jobs enjoy their to staff enabling motivating, skills, People makes leader? What agood in. believe I one still it is but policy old-fashioned an -it may be yourself to treated be like way would in the that you customers in treating believe Ifirmly Also, with. contact regular in Ikeep who day and to very this customers valued still are ago, decades from three over clients, ofmy first most that knowledge the in is me for Success Ihave that witnessed. changes dramatic many been have there industry, print and photocopying the in years overWith 33 shire? your favouriteWhat’s or city of Aberdeen part 31 BUSINESS LESSONS | OCTOBER 2016 32 POLICY | OCTOBER 2016 Join the conversation the Join Update Policy @chambertalk agcc.co.uk. agcc.co.uk. at irina.bonavino@ Bonavino to Irina views your Send Statement? Autumn the want from you do What reviewing business taxation – probably a a –probably taxation business reviewing completely than rather type tax same the using aredesign on based ideas, some has network Chamber Scottish The system? rates business the redesign you would how question: one 7-asks October on closed -which consultation The Review. Barclay the through system rates business the to reform pledge campaign its fulfil to out set has Government Scottish The investment. the negates rates valuation business new their that find to often only properties, their renovating may in invest sector hospitality The properties. with high-value retailers small than rates business in less pay far premises small but turnovers large with companies sector, retail online the In to pay. ability on based not also and made is any money before paid so tax, input an it is that is “complaint” fundamental most the Probably tax. the collecting and administering with associated systems the and itself tax the about concerns highlighted have repeatedly members Chamber rates).domestic (also rates non- as known business is many for frustrating most the Perhaps area. subject taxing apretty is taxation BUSINESS Talking taxation sound, if uninspiring, approach given given approach if uninspiring, sound, Government inertia around making making around inertia Government major changes. Cut down on bureaucracy on down Cut Scotland has 14 different local local different 14 has Scotland assessors with their own own with their assessors valuation roll and appeals appeals rolland valuation procedures. the Assessor to ensure to ensure Assessor the it makes This be a single Office of Office asingle be In Scotland there should should there Scotland In costly and difficult their valuations. valuations. their understand and appeal to businesses for circumstances” need to be taken more more to taken be need circumstances” of change a“material on based Appeals economic cycle. ofour to timings the due hard to hit be about be could North-east We the fear were felt. Brexit or downturn gas and oil ofthe effects the –before 2015 from values take will revaluation 2017 next The abenchmark. as old years two atleast are that prices property use they and apart too far are Revaluations economic conditions in changes to responsive more rates Make mechanism. appeal one rolland valuation national one accountability, assessors’ Chambers reception Scottish the for Westminster - Visiting Mundell Minister, David Scottish the and members &gas oil of our some between - Ameeting encourage economic growth. to used be can they how and Scotland to coming powers tax the on Scotland, Treasury in the from with representatives members for discussion - Alunchtime teams. gas and oil their relocate potentially and 14 to offices ofregional number the down cutting for plans their about hear to officials with HMRC - Ameeting the activity included: of Some summer. this again connections our exploiting been has Chamber The schedule Summer views. your know us let do please but revolution, not evolution, We expect areas. key regenerate and growth economic to atool as level promote atlocal used be can rates view, business along-term With circumstances. more fair and responsive to economic system rates business Scottish to the make opportunity Review anew is Barclay The ofappeal. type that for parameters the clarify could legislation new and England, in as Scotland, in seriously Chamber urges business to Buy North East

THE Chamber is throwing its Chief executive Russell Borthwick said: weight behind the Buy North East “This initiative is part of Aberdeen & campaign, which aims to get the Grampian Chamber of Commerce’s issue of local procurement on the commitment to creating the buoyant, diversified regional economic business agenda in the region. environment that will enable our The initiative was formed from a member businesses to be more partnership of both local authorities, successful. Aberdeen Journals, the Chamber and “Many millions of pounds are Scottish Enterprise. spent every year by Aberdeen and Throughout October and November, Aberdeenshire organisations in the businesses are being encouraged to private, public and third sectors with sign up to the Buy North East Roll of companies based elsewhere in the Honour, pledging their support and UK or further afield, meaning that giving an undertaking to put local expenditure does not circulate in the procurement on their next board local economy. agenda. “At a time when many businesses and The campaign aims to get the issue individuals are feeling the impact of firmly on to the agenda of private, the oil and gas downturn, it is more public and third sector organisations important than ever that we collectively in the region, providing stimulus, case do all we can to help the regional studies and practical advice to both economy, and protect and create jobs in buyers and sellers with the result the area. that more business is done between “Whether biscuits in the boardroom, companies based in Aberdeen city and stationery or software, every company Aberdeenshire. can make a difference.” It then asks that the business moves at Details of the campaign – and how you least one contract or piece of business can pledge your company’s support – to a local supplier. can be seen at www.buynortheast.co.uk Progress is being reported in an eight- The Chamber’s business breakfast on week campaign being run across November 10 is themed around Buy the Press & Journal and the Evening North East, with inspiring stories and Express, recognising companies’ practical examples of how you can get success stories, and underlining their local procurement on your business’s commitment to the region. agenda.

www.buynortheast.co.uk [email protected] @BuyNorthEast 34 HOT TOPIC | OCTOBER 2016 Topic Hot Hutcheon Mearns partner, Andrew Ferguson, XIC director, Murray Alexander, FG Associates director, Craig Finnie, , , two-and-a-half-year old son is not too far away from making this areality.” this away making too from far not is son old two-and-a-half-year my Ifear and available!) also (other tablets ofiPads grasp have abetter already daughter seven-year-old and son my both nine-year-old To me. than honest, be advanced technologically more are children my that three to find morning same that on waking Also implode. businesses good watching and places wrong the in people Day, seeing Groundhog to anightmarish morning each up Waking results. delivering for accountable held is nobody and set skill have required the don’t who with people seats empty to want fill merely businesses and success, term long about cares nobody Where ofpaper. apiece from judged hire to aquick significance in pales it wrong ofgetting cost the and matter doesn’t right key appointments ofgetting importance the where universe alternate an in up “WAKING competitive.” more and stronger, leaner downturn exit this should North-east The performance. to akey ofbusiness be has driver innovation and embraced, technology new created, are models business new that imperative It’s when. of acase just it’s to end; an come will through living is Aberdeen that ‘nightmare’ This ships.’ like ‘ghost looking offices many lastly and staff, ‘zombie’ overworked backs, cut training infrastructure, in ofinvestment alack systems, IT ‘skeleton’ Aging left? what’s So, hold. on put investment and cut being budgets in resulted low. has time This all atan are Sea North the in levels activity cancelled, or postponed being projects With Aberdeen. across cuts staff ofwidespread effects the hand first sector, we have consulting witnessed and recruitment the in “WORKING digital.” from challenge growing of the face the in prices print competitive retaining on pressure the given -particularly prospects pleasant not are importing, on reliance agreater plus pound, Aweaker mills. European via come has supplies paper ofour volume increasing An choice. buying less created has which few years, past over the mills ofpaper closure and merchants ofpaper consolidation considerable We’ve seen of Brexit. aresult as increases price of raw material spectre the faces also industry print local The 2017. in scenario nightmarish this in ease an for Ihope others, with many Along industry. energy involved the in directly are who those only –not sectors all across ofbusinesses resilience the and economy local our tested has situation The prices. low oil ofcontinuing aresult as organisations, North-east many of nightmares the have realised last and year this that to acknowledge important “IT’S scenario for 2017? What is your nightmare Halloween: and nights dark brings October YOU'D LIKETO SHARE? DO YOU HAVE ANOPINION [email protected] A month in Member social media... News Top tweets Judy Murray @JudyMurray Woke up to this little dude this morning. Thanks @AberdeenFC Gold award no accident @chambertalk :) NATIONAL house builder and timber systems manufacturer Stewart Milne Group has won its seventh consecutive Royal Society for the Prevention of Accidents (RoSPA) gold award for occupational health and safety. — College lauded for entrepreneurial focus NORTH East Scotland College has been named Entrepreneurial FE College of the Year at the Young Enterprise Scotland Bridge 2 Business Awards 2016. The college was deemed the most entrepreneurial focused college combining student attainment with commercially- focused activities and skills development. The award is designed to recognise entrepreneurial excellence across the further education college sector and is backed by the Scottish Governments initiative “Scotland Can Do.” Students across subject disciplines often work directly with local employers on real briefs and as a result a few have gained valuable work experience or volunteering opportunities.

Recent examples of this include the Play Me I’m Yours Apave Inspection UK initiative where pianos were decorated by Art and Design @ApaveUK and Visual Communication students and placed in a An interesting morning of talks range of prominent city centre locations. Aberdeen- regarding industry innovation based Glencraft is collaborating with Fashion Design and collaboration, thanks to and Manufacture students who have been tasked with @AGCCevents @chambertalk designing a mattress headboard. — NESS hosts Dons stars of ’76 NORTH East Sensory Services, (NESS) is set to welcome Enterprise Rockers @MicroBizMatters a group of former Aberdeen Football Club stars to a Great to chat @RNLIquine about special fundraising lunch being held to celebrate the 40th the @chambertalk awards event anniversary of the club winning the Scottish League Cup in #September - great that @RNLI under manager Ally MacLeod. are 1 of the charities of the year #Business NESS will play host to 1976 squad members including Joe Harper, Willie Garner, Drew Jarvie, Dom Sullivan, John McMaster and Stuart Kennedy at the event taking place at the Chester Hotel, Aberdeen on Friday, October 28. Border Digital @borderdgtl The 1976 Scottish League Cup was played on November 6, We love connected communities 1976, at Hampden Park, and was one of the most celebrated on/offline! Can't wait to be part of 's cup wins in Aberdeen FC’s history. @chambertalk #wellconnected supportive network Guests will have the opportunity for autographs and photographs with the team members and there will be a special sports-themed auction with memorabilia available. Tickets are priced at £50 each, with tables of 10 at £495. Contact Neil Skene on 01224 793954 or email neil.skene@ Join the coversation nesensoryservices.org. @chambertalk

Joe Harper, former Dons star @AGCCevents and Neil Skene, fundraising @AGCCresearch co-ordinator, North East Sensory Services @AGCCtraining

35 Training Calendar

October

Date Course NOW OFFERING OCTOBER 2016 19 Essential Supervisory Skills National Accredited Wed Bridging the gap between doing and supervising Training Programme 19 Project Management – The Fundamentals We offer a range of export Wed Learn the typical life cycle of a project, role of the manager, team and training courses endorsed stakeholders by the British Chambers of 20 Finance - The Basics Commerce (BCC) National Accredited Trade Training

TRAINING CALENDAR | Thu Gain a broad understanding of basic accounting and business finance curriculum. These courses will equip business with a highly 25 Customer Service Excellence skilled workforce ready to take Tue Excel at customer service internal and external on international markets Speak to us for more November information 01224 343917 Date Course T E [email protected] 1 Boost Your Business with Telesales Tue Maximise you sales success, attract new business and open new doors

2 Reviews and Appraisals Wed How to ensure maximum benefit to individuals and companies

2 Essential Managers (2 days) Vocational Wed For new managers or a management refresh Qualifications 8 Essential Supervisory Skills Scottish Vocational Tue Bridging the gap between doing and supervising qualifications are based on standards of work-based 10 Supervisor's Next Steps competence, designed Thu The next stage for supervisors who have already developed and by Sector Skills Council in embedded the basics partnership with industry and awarding bodies. There are no 14 Personal Effectiveness tests or exams, competence Mon Develop your skills in management, communication, conflict is assessed in the candidate's resolution and plan for success own workplace. 15 Presentation Skills FOR MORE INFORMATION Tue Deliver a confident and effective presentation [email protected] www.agcc.co.uk 15 Train the Trainer Tue If you run training courses, or coach on a one-to-one basis, then improve your technique

17 Assertiveness at Work Thu Clearly communicate your point of view without causing conflict

18 Managing Stakeholders Fri Develop practical approaches to stakeholder identification and segmentation as a prelude to designing appropriate relationships with stakeholders For full course listings visit www.agcc.co.uk/courses For more information Susan Staniforth T 01224 343917 E [email protected] 36 Events Calendar

October

Date Event Time

7 Developing Foundation Apprenticeships 11.30am - 1.30pm OCTOBER 2016 Fri NESCOL, Aberdeen 20 Vanguard Dinner INVITATION ONLY 6pm - 9.30pm 16 Thu Aberdeen Football Club, Aberdeen THE ANNUAL 25 Growing Talent Worldwide 7.30am - 9.30am EMPLOYMENT Tue AGCC, Aberdeen

LAW CONFERENCE EVENTS CALENDAR | 27 A Guide to Digital Marketing 11.45am - 2pm THURSDAY NOVEMBER 17 Thu AGCC, Aberdeen BOOK November NOW EARLY BIRD Date Event Time RATE*

3 Promoting Scotland online 11.45am - 2pm Thu Meldrum House, Aberdeenshire

7 Speed Networking 11.45am - 2pm Mon Aberdeen www.agcc.co.uk 10 Buy North-east 7am - 9am Thu Aberdeen Marriott Hotel, Aberdeen * available until Friday October 21, 2016

11 Shire Connections 11.45am - 2pm Fri Tor-na-Coille, Aberdeenshire

15 Food & Drink Network Meeting 10am - 1pm Tue Rowett Institute, Aberdeen

15 Finance Network Meeting 11.30am - 1pm Tue St Jame's Place Wealth Management, Aberdeen

24 Scotland Africa Oil & Gas Forum 9am - 5pm Thu AECC, Aberdeen

Book events online at www.agcc.co.uk/networking-events Thanks to our sponsors

37 38 ON THE MOVE | OCTOBER 2016 management team at READ. closely withthesenior Aberdeen andwillwork Gavin willbebasedin development manager. Lindsay asglobalbusiness team andappointed Gavin its seniormanagement Cased Holehasexpanded evaluation specialist READ Production andintegrity Gavin Lindsay group operations manager. appointed David Selkirkas Sport Aberdeen hasalso charitable leisure trust. pathways at theregistered and developing sporting creating opportunities will beresponsible for and active lifestyles. She new director for sport appointed JoBellasits Sport Aberdeen has Selkirk Jo BellandDavid Move the On marketing andcorporate Absafe hasappointed anew Laura McIntyre communications campaigns. campaigns. communications roll-out ofglobalinternal 18 monthscoordinating the Petrofac, where shespent the Absafe team from Laura McIntyre joins strategy for thebusiness. a new communications relations managerto drive new CEO. appointed JonBellasthe energy industry, has services for theglobal software solutionsand MODS, aprovider of Jon Bell having spentmore than in theoilandgasindustry and operations experience Philip hasextensive sales office. based outofitsAberdeen leader for marineandports Lawson astheUKbusiness ABB hasappointed Philip Philip Lawson a numberofseniorpositions. worked his way upthrough joined AGR in2010 andhas consultancies inthecity. He roles across avariety of 10 years, inanumberof in Aberdeen for around and gasrecruitment world Steve hasbeenintheoil consultancy business. Aberdeen-based manpower Combe to manageits AGR hasappointed Steve Steve Combe throughout Europe. blue chiporganisations manager withother 15 years asafieldservice experience. than 18years ofmedia McCabe whohasmore senior PRconsultant, Claire Korero hasappointed As partofitsexpansion significant growth. Road following aperiodof west-end office inQueen’s expanded into anew consultancy Korero has BRAND engagement Claire McCabe lead theinitiative. director ofpublicpolicy to Andrew Hendersonas The firmhasappointed exit theEuropean Union. wake ofBritain'sdecisionto wide PublicPolicy Unitinthe Masons islaunchingaUK- International law firm Pinsent Andrew Henderson recent years. in theoffshore sector over different managerial roles where heheldanumberof Andy joinsMPA from ASCO markets. both UKandinternational to drive furthergrowth in development manager to thenew role ofbusiness has appointed Andy Ross Montrose Port Authority Andy Ross prior to hisretirement. harbour master, whichwas heldby CaptainDanny Stroud of marinemanager. The positionreplaces that ofassistant Alexandra McIntosh hasbeenappointed to thenew role following theretirement ofCaptainRay Shaw. superintendent, hasbeenappointed harbour master Gaskin, marine Captain JeffformerlytheHarbour’s manager. appointment ofanew harbourmaster andamarine of itsMarineOperations Departmentwiththeinternal Aberdeen HarbourBoard hascompleted therestructuring Gaskin andAlexandraCaptain Jeff McIntosh of sectors includingoil andgas,ICT, retail, andproperty. audit andaccounts manager, working withclientsinavariety Aaron Williams hasjoinedHallMorrice from KPMGUKas members ofstaff. Accountancy firmHallMorrice hasappointed eightnew Hall Morrice workforce grows created role ofbusiness development director thisspring. in 2015 andtheappointmentofMike Innesto thenewly- Morrice whichsaw alarge intake ofstudents takingonroles operations at alllevels, andfollows animpressive year for Hall The recruitment news seesthefirm strengthening its by RGUplacement students CalumMathers andToni Parker. Smith alsotook onnew roles withinthefirmand were joined students AshleighWelsh, Catherine Freeman andMichael with theadditionofIrene Walker andMariaMarcus. CA The firm’s payroll team hasbeen expanded in recent months, Let us know at [email protected] Are you move? the on The paintinganddecorating firm haspartnered with commercial markets. as well asthefirm’s continual growth inbothprivate and 20 apprentices inabidto supporttheyounger generation, Over thepast four years thefirmhastaken ona total of Aberdeen cityandshire. enrolled five apprentices agedbetween 16and18from Banchory-based RDavidson, painters anddecorators, has Apprentice recruitment East Scotland College aspartofthescheme. apprenticeships, withtheyoung employees attending North the Construction Industry Training Board to deliver the ARE YOU ONTHEMOVE? apprenticeships in100days. campaign, creating 100 Journal’s Apprentice 100 and ispartofthePress and across various disciplines, recruitment of11apprentices, intake hasresulted inthe future workforce. This year’s commitment to investing inits demonstrating thecompany’s Solutions inrecent weeks joined Richard IrvinEnergy Nine new apprentices have Apprentice recruitment [email protected] Let usknow at 39 ON THE MOVE | OCTOBER 2016 New Members

Alzheimer Scotland Delfinity Consulting AB12 4LH Aberdeen Dementia Resource Centre provides Management & business consultants T 01224 870000 information and support to people with specialising in strategy, finance & HR E [email protected] dementia and their friends and family Braiklay Farmhouse W www.flexistore.co.uk 13-19 King Street Tarves

OCTOBER 2016 Aberdeen C Mike Duthie - Managing Director Ellon _ AB24 5AA Aberdeenshire T 01224 644077 AB41 7NJ Form 3D Services Ltd Aberdeen's make studio, providing bespoke E [email protected] T 01651 881832 models and parts www.alzscot.org W E [email protected] T 07742 583200 NEW MEMBERS | Andrea Watt - Community C W www.delfinity.co.uk E [email protected] Fundraiser C Fiona Smith - Director http://form3dservices.com _ _ W C Richard Drennan - Director Ashfield Land (Aberdeen) Ltd Douglas-Westwood Limited _ Ashfield Land are one of the UK’s leading Providers of market research, commercial property companies specialising in the intelligence and industry forecasts within the JPR Energy acquisition of strategic land, investments and global energy sector Serving companies in Aberdeen and North of development. Scotland. Main focus is to reduce energy costs 38 Albyn Place for our clients 25 Blythswood Square Aberdeen 64 Dunnydeer View Glasgow AB10 1YN G2 4BL Insch T 01224 264971 Aberdeenshire T 01412 222280 E Andrew.Reid@douglaswestwood. AB52 6HW E [email protected] com T 01464 821135 W www.ashfieldland.co.uk W www.douglas-westwood.com E [email protected] C Steven McGarva - Director C Andrew Reid - Managing Director www.jprenergy.co.uk _ _ W C Roddie Barclay - Managing Partner Big Bold You E-WAN Networks Ltd _ Business change consultancy/coaching Consultancy in the deployment of unified Old Baldoukie Smithy communications solutions Granite Financial Planning Ltd Tannadice We are a boutique financial planning firm 25 Westburn Drive offering investment, retirement and estate Forfar Aberdeen planning advice DD8 3SN AB25 3BY Banchory Business Centre T 07747 636529 T 07736 840543 Burn O'Bennie Road E [email protected] E [email protected] Banchory W www.bigboldyou.com W www.e-wan.co.uk AB31 5ZU C Elizabeth Freeman - Director C Ewan Waugh - Owner T 01224 781280 _ _ E [email protected] Candacraig Finnies the Jewellers W www.granitefp.co.uk Candacraig is an inspiring private retreat Jewellers, Diamond Merchants, Watch & Clock, C Paul Gibson – Managing Director located in the heart of the Cairngorms and Gift Sales _ available for exclusive use 219-223 Geroge Street Meridiem Consulting Ltd Candacraig House Aberdeen Strathdon International business development, trade, AB25 1HY technology transfer and export consulting/ Aberdeenshire 01224 636632 support for oil, gas and renewable companies AB36 8XT T seeking to grow in the Latin America and E [email protected] Caribbean region T 01975 651461 W www.finniesjewellers.co.uk E [email protected] 61 Rubislaw Square C Stuart Milne - General Manager Aberdeen W www.candacraighouse.com _ AB15 4DG C Lynne Lino - Owner/Managing Director Flexistore T 07508 835893 _ We are self-storage experts providing flexible E [email protected] and convenient storage solutions for Businesses Chubby Bags UK Ltd and People with more stuff than space. Our W http://meridiemconsulting.com 2A Russel Road services include Self Storage; Business Storage; C Barry Simpson - Company Director Document Storage and Records Management; Aberdeen Storage for Students; Packaging Supplies; AB11 5RB Shipping Services T 01224 586086 Barclayhill Place E [email protected] Portlethen C John Gall - Managing Director Aberdeen

40 Nimbus Blue Limited Simmons & Company International Ltd Cybersecurity & IT Support Specialist corporate finance advisers to the energy industry Westpoint House 22 Waverley Place Prospect Road Aberdeen Westhill AB10 1XP OCTOBER 2016 Aberdeenshire T 01224 202300 AB32 6FE E [email protected] T 01224 608190 W www.simmonsco-intl.com E [email protected] C Nick Dalgarno - Managing Director/ Matthew Graham – W www.nimbus-blue.com Vice President NEW MEMBERS | C Sara McQuillan - Business Development Manager _ _ The RGU Foundation Opportunity North East The RGU Foundation is a registered charity, established to support Economic Development scholarship and advancement at Robert Gordon University and to inspire philanthropic giving to Higher Education 11 Queens Gardens Aberdeen The RGU Foundation AB15 4YD West Lodge Garthdee Road T 01224 061110 Aberdeen E [email protected] AB10 7AQ www.opportunitynortheast.com W T 01224 262039 C Jennifer Craw - Chief Executive _ E [email protected] W www.rgu.ac.uk/alumni-and-giving/supporting-rgu/ Scottish Food & Drink Federation funding-priorities Leadership organisation for Food & Drink Manufacturing businesses Sarah Dingwall - Development Manager specialising in lobbying, regulatory and technical support. Part of the UK C Food and Drink Federation _ 1st Floor Zoe Rae Photography 48 Melville Street Family and Wedding Portrait Photography Edinburgh Balmacassie Lodge EH3 7HF Balmacassie E [email protected] Ellon Aberdeen W www.sfdf.org.uk AB41 8QR C David Thomson - Chief Executive _ T 07709 189573 Servicemaster Grampian E [email protected] Disaster restoration after fire and water damage, rapid response emergency W www.facebook.com/zoeraephotography cleaning. Carpet and upholstery cleaning, builder and industrial cleaning C Zoe Rae - Photographer 16 Coldstone Avenue Kingswells Aberdeen AB15 8TT T 07398 156019 E [email protected] W http://servicemasterclean.co.uk/grampian C Jim McPhail - Director

41 42 NEWS | OCTOBER 2016 The four-year frame agreement, which has two three- two has which agreement, frame four-year The (NCS). shelf continental Norwegian in the assets to services maintenance and of modification provision for to AS tender Norge by Wintershall agreement frame anew awarded been has Wood Group addition, In shelves. continental UK and Norwegian Danish, the across assets gas and oil its support Energy, to by DONG agreement framework services engineering anew awarded been also has Wood Group USA. and Arabia Saudi in operations SABIC supports currently WoodGroup globally. SABIC of support company’s the extends Woking, in operations by WoodGroup’s delivered be will which contract, The immediately. effective is which contract, the under UK Wilton, in Teesside complex to SABIC the provided be will services design Engineering UK. the in SABIC, manufacturer petrochemical by contract anew awarded been has Group WOOD Engineering design contract — years. two last over the work (IP) property intellectual contentious in increase 48% a seen also has firm The Aberdeen. in resolution dispute in to Steven partner Guild include firm 500-strong partner 59 atthe promotions Recent instructions. client and activity in pause to asignificant leading as uncertainty post-Brexit citing 2015, in £23.4million from 3.4% down £22.6million, of profit a recorded firm The year. previous the £51.3million from £53.3million to 3.9% up 2016, 31 July ending year financial the for turnover annual in increase an reported has Paull BURNESS results Paull Burness — units. to 11,853 12% grew by volumes used retail and units of13,691 high record new by to 6% another increased volumes sales vehicle New ofgrowth. year consecutive sixth its reported Group Motor Clark John the as trend arecord-breaking continued 2015 at1.4%. average trade motor UK the above remained sales on net group the and rising costs interest in resulting stocks vehicle increased and margins gross on pressures created conditions Market £604million. from to £667million by 10% increased turnover group’s the of 2015, course the During businesses. trade motor top 20 UK’s ofthe one as position its strengthens company owned family- the as growth continued confirming 2015, for results audited its announced has Group Motor Clark John THE Clark turnoverJohn up News Member Stavanger, Bergen, Oslo and Moss. and Oslo Stavanger, Bergen, Sandefjord, in offices WoodGroup’s from delivered be will immediately, effective is and options extension year November Login to agcc.co.uk and select 'Business Bulletin' as as Bulletin' 'Business select and to agcc.co.uk Login Lands on desks November desks on 4 Lands we focus collaboration on sector have can abusiness how working together has enabled to the port grow an innovativean partnership takes centre stage at the NEXT MONTH IN THE BULLETIN THE IN MONTH NEXT Peterhead Energy Hub: Hub: Peterhead Energy Northern Star Business Star Business Northern an interest to have your copy delivered copy to have your interest an Caring collaboration: collaboration: Caring working with the third third the with working all the action from the what was your most Power of Diversity Diversity of Power Architecture art: art: Architecture Photo diary: Photo boring job?boring conference advantage Hot topic: Hot Awards — — — —