West Midlandswww.iod.com Autumn 2018
New Expo event offers key advice on taking first steps overseas
Tackling the UK’s productivity challenge
Award winners ready for IoD national finals
Williamson makes the case for a bold and assertive UK
EVENTS | DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT | ADVICE AND INFORMATION | NEWS
CONTACTS Embrace change as it’s IoD West Midlands: iHub, Colmore Gate, 2-6 Colmore Row, “Every time I attend an IoD function I’m Birmingham B3 2QD struck by the amazing levels of knowledge our only constant T: 0121 643 1868 and expertise in the room. Someone within the crowd can provide the answer to almost help spread best practice, knowledge and Chair: Brian Hall any question, can help solve any problem. Brian Hall expertise. We can help each other build better e: [email protected] That’s the level of expertise that is available Chair, businesses in this way. t: 0121 728 8360 to you as a member. IoD West Midlands As part of this agenda our new vice-chair, Jackie Hendley, has begun discussing our Regional Director/Editor: diversity agenda with many businesses, building Calum Nisbet The only constant in life... is change. on our already successful Women as Leaders e: [email protected] Never has that old saying felt more true than concept. She will be ensuring the IoD stays at the t: 0121 643 7801 over the past few months at IoD West Midlands. forefront of moves to create a better diversity We’ve seen our regional headquarters move to balance in boardrooms, but also stressing why Office administration: new premises at the iHub, on Colmore Row, I’ve this matters so much to business success, as Jordan Lowe begun my three-year term as chair, we have diverse boards are shown to deliver better results. e: [email protected] appointed a new vice-chair and we’ve said Another of our key goals is to tackle the t: 0121 643 1868 goodbye to a long-serving friend and colleague region’s productivity deficit, which sees us lag on both the regional board and in the regional behind other regions in the country. As part of The Institute of Directors West office team. this we have recently hosted the third of our Midlands membership To give that list some sense of order, I hope Productivity Breakfasts and have the fourth magazine is published on you have had chance to drop in to our new planned for Aston Martin in November. These behalf of the IoD by: regional office. It is an excellent base from which events allow directors to hear how other Chamber Media Services, to work when in Birmingham city centre and to businesses have improved their productivity in 4 Hilton Road, Bramhall, host informal meetings. I know the head office ways that they can apply to their own operations. Stockport, Cheshire SK7 3AG. team have settled in and it has been well received In a similar vein are our ‘Best Practice’ by members thus far. Chairman’s visits. We are in talks with leading Advertising sales: However, there will be someone missing from businesses to host behind-the-scenes visits Colin Regan the regional team next time you visit as we have through which members can learn more about t: 01942 537959 / 07871 444922 recently said goodbye to Sue Hurrell. Sue left us their success, understand what they do well and e: [email protected] last month after 15 years of great service to the hear examples of best practice that they can take IoD. She moved on with our best wishes and I back to their own organisations. Production enquiries: know I speak for all members who came across There is so much we can all learn from each Rob Beswick, Sue over the years how much we owe to her for other. As I said in the previous issue, it never fails t: 0161 426 7957 her hard work. The process of recruiting a new to amaze me that, at any IoD event, no matter e: rob@chambermedia team member has already begun as we look to what the business problem is, there is probably services.co.uk maintain the excellent service members receive somebody in the room who can provide you with from the regional team. the answers you are looking for. The IoD regional committee is also saying That was a thought that came back to me Please note... goodbye, too, to John Goodman – a man for during a recent conversation with our Director of whom the word ‘stalwart’ was invented! John has the Year, Carmen Watson from Pertemps. I was Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of material been a member of the regional committee for blown away by both her personal journey, which contained within this magazine, many years, complementing a marvellous has taken her from starting as a secretary to neither the IoD nor Chamber Media business career, and his wise counsel on the leading a very successful recruitment agency, Services can accept any committee will be missed. I’m sure we’ll still see and the huge strides the business has made responsibility for omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or him at IoD events across the region, where under her leadership, too. Carmen stands as a advertising content. members will be able to count on him for advice. great example of getting on in business and she is Many thanks to Sue and John; your contributions always happy to talk to people about her life and The views expressed in this were always appreciated and will be missed. experiences – a shining example of the IoD’s publication are not necessarily those of the IoD. The carriage of knowledge sharing agenda. adverts in this publication does not However, things move on. We have started to constitute an endorsement of the reform our regional committee and bring in new As you can imagine, since taking over as chair products or services advertised. officers as we build a new structure and press on it has been a very hectic period for me, with All articles within this publication with our agenda of ensuring the IoD delivers on plenty of meetings and opportunities to get to are copyright IoD West Midlands. its membership goal – of helping members make know members across the region. Editorial consent must be obtained the connections across the business realm that Continued on page 4 before any are reproduced either in printed form or electronically.
IoD West Midlands Patrons Cover picture: Secretary of State for Defence Gavin Williamson addresses IoD members at Himley Hall in the Black Country
www.iod.com/westmids 03 News
Embrace change as it’s our only constant
Continued from page 3 A particular highlight was the lunch with Gavin Williamson, the Secretary of State for Defence. It was both a great opportunity to meet members and hear their views on current issues and at the same time listen to a very professional politician with a challenging brief at a time of what seems like near chaos in the political world. I had the chance to talk with Gavin for some time and the thing that struck me – as it often does when you talk to Rob Brighouse politicians of all parties – was the way he on board one of carried the responsibility of his role, and his firm’s luxury how he viewed his job as one of service coaches with IoD and duty. regional director At the lunch all branches of the military Calum Nisbet were well represented, and in talking to them, too, their sense of duty and service to our country shone through. It was very humbling to meet people who have given SNAP up your free return so much. It was also interesting to hear how positively they viewed the IoD: it is trip to London! always gratifying to know that our name is well thought-of in areas a long way from Congratulations to Rob Brighouse, who many of you will remember as the the traditional business boardroom. former MD of Chiltern Railways, who is now the chairman and co-founder of the new on-demand coach service Snap. And so to Brexit. Recent developments Snap reached a major business milestone over summer when it carried its have not appeared positive but I believe 100,000th customer. firmly that this is a bigger political The business is the brainchild of Thomas Ableman, a former commercial question than a business one. All the director at Chiltern, and it ran its first services in October 2016. business people I speak to ask for is clarity In partnership with some of the West Midlands top quality privately owned on the future landscape, and once that is coach companies, Snap now runs a regular service between Birmingham and delivered they will get on with delivering London. As a special gift to IoD members, Snap is offering you and your their products and services – no matter colleagues a free return trip to the capital at www.getasnap.com. Simply use what that future landscape looks like. coupon code IoDSnap at checkout to claim your free ticket. After all, what choice do we have? We’re not going to simply pull up the drawbridge and cease trading. Business leaders in this country are determined and Your own Edinburgh base in the resourceful: I am sure we will find a way to make Brexit work, whatever form it takes. heart of the city’s political world
IoD members from across the UK visiting Monday to Friday. For more information Scotland can take advantage of our flagship and to book, visit www.iod.com. 20% discount premises in Edinburgh at 10 Charlotte To find out about other IoD Hubs in Square. Glasgow, Stirling and Dundee, call 0131 on private GP Located only a few doors from the First 557 5488. Minister’s residence on the north side of • IoD Scotland Conference: Your invite appointments Charlotte Square, the new premises signal to attend - see page 20 IoD West Midlands patron a significant investment from the IoD in BHSF is offering all members supporting business leaders in Scotland discounted private GP and across the UK. appointments at its new The 3,000 sq. ft premises, set across two private medical practice in the floors, are open to IoD members and their centre of Birmingham, at BHSF guests and feature a renovated members’ Medical Practice 2 Cornwall St, lounge, a hot desk workroom and four Birmingham B3 2DL meeting rooms (for between two and 45 To redeem this offer please people); with stunning views of Edinburgh present your IoD membership Castle and Charlotte Square Gardens. card upon arrival to the All spaces have access to complimentary practice. To book your WiFi with hospitality services available on appointment call 0121 728 8366. request. Members can use the premises at any time between 8.30am and 5.30pm,
04 www.iod.com/westmids A warm welcome awaits at IoD’s new hub
We are delighted to have welcomed so many members to our Regional HQ at iHub on Colmore Row over the past few months – the furthest coming from Mumbai for one of our Professional Development courses! A huge thank you to the highly professional iHub team, led by Emma Johnston, who have been highly praised by members and course leaders for their support and attention to visitors’ needs. A reminder of what iHub has to offer: • A warm welcome for members and up to three of their guests (52 visits per year) with free wi-fi, tea and coffee. • A selection of meeting rooms for hire with an IoD preferential rate starting at £21.60 per hour, booked and paid for in advance with the IoD team • Designated co-working spaces on the 4th floor for when you need an area to work • A lounge area for informal meetings by reception and a selection of booths on the 3rd floor for more private meetings Please remember to sign in on every visit and, if you are expecting visitors, to wait for them in the Reception area on the 4th floor. Hope to catch up soon!
Pictured above, some of the iHub Team – from left to The superb co-working right, Sophie, Emma, Eve, Angie, Leah and Lorren. area on the 4th floor
www.iod.com/westmids 05 News
Taking a risk pays off as Helen bags Warwick’s top business award
An IoD member who set up a risk Peter Burns MBE, former president of management company just three years Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber ago, has won the Pride of Warwick District of Commerce, presents Helen Barge of Business Person of the Year Award. Risk Evolves with her trophy for Pride Helen Barge, owner and managing of Warwick District Business Person of director of Risk Evolves, and her team help the Year 2018. companies from sole traders to multinationals understand and prepare for potential risks to their business from IT “Managing risk – particularly from an IT and cyber security to data protection and and data protection perspective – can be supply chain failures. both confusing and the cause of much Ms Barge set up Risk Evolves in apprehension and worry. Leamington Spa in 2015 after working for “My aim has always been to simplify the IBM in the UK and abroad. She now has a challenges of risk management, increase team of 12 people based across the UK compliance to ever more complex giving support across a wide range of legislation and to drive good business sectors from SMEs to membership governance to give all organisations the organisations, charities and transport opportunity to grow.” companies, high street banks and The Pride of Warwick District Awards government departments. celebrate the best achievements in The judges recognised her hard work in to myself and my team. When I first set up business and the community. This year’s building and continuing the company’s Risk Evolves I was determined to provide a awards were supported by the company expansion. They also praised the way in service which helped businesses Geberit and the Coventry and which she and her team support understand their risks, from cyber security Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. businesses through changes in regulation to supply chain failures. But I wanted to do The awards are for all in Warwick such as GDPR, making the process clear this in a way which supported them and District, this includes Royal Leamington and transparent. which was clear and transparent, and Spa, Warwick, Kenilworth, Whitnash and Ms Barge said: “This award means a lot without jargon. surrounding areas. Co-op boost for Stafford at Beacon Business Park Opening of new Co-op to Aerial create jobs and provide view as much-needed local resource the new Co-op A new Central England Co-operative store is store opening on Beacon Business Park in a few starts to months, creating dozens of jobs for the local take community and providing a much-needed shape on amenity for housing developments nearby. Beacon The 4,000 sq ft convenience store will be Business located off the Blackheath Lane Park roundabout, on the Weston Road out of Stafford towards the County Showground. The site was purchased by Stafford-based Inglewood Investments and construction is bank collection point will be installed and a “Any business that opens in Stafford is progressing quickly. The external shell of life-saving defibrillator will be located onsite. great news for the town,” he said. “The the store has been completed and work on Jamie Martin, Co-op Operations Manager business park has been going for years and the interior of the Co-op will commence for the area, said: “We are excited about our Stafford as a town is blessed with new shortly. new store in Stafford and about being part businesses opening. It’s all good for the The new convenience store will be fitted of the local community. The new site will economy.” out with pioneering energy efficient feature a vibrant and modern store that will The Co-op is the latest exciting addition refrigeration technologies to minimise provide all customers and members with all to the 50-acre development zone after a environmental impact and LED lighting. of their essentials and also see us invest in Costa Coffee Drive Thru opened in May Not only will the new Co-op be creating the local economy and create jobs for local 2018. The Co-op is currently scheduled to new jobs, it will also play a key role in the people.” open before the end of the year. local community. The retailer runs a Andrew Harp, Councillor and For more information about commercial Community Dividend scheme which gives representative of the Milwich ward on property for sale at Beacon Business local good causes and community groups Stafford Borough Council, has praised the Park in Stafford, contact ISE Estates the chance to apply for a grant ranging from opening of the new Co-op as it will give a on 01785 256098 or email £100 to £5,000. The introduction of a food boost to the economy and create more jobs. [email protected]. 06 www.iod.com/westmids Farewell Sue, the Escaping the Pension Tax Charge IoD will miss you For most people, too much money in your pension would be considered a As many of you already know, Sue Hurrell left the IoD at the end of nice problem to have. However, some August after 15 years to take on a new role with CIMA, writes IoD individuals who would not consider regional director Calum Nisbet. themselves to be ‘well off’ can find Sue was incredibly popular with local members and well respected that they are impacted by the limit on by her IoD colleagues across the country. Her professionalism, how much they can hold in pensions, constant smile and genuine willingness to help members is without even being aware they are something we will all miss, but I have no doubt we will be able to implicated, says Ascot Lloyd, Corporate work with her on joint events in the future. Financial Adviser, Caroline Castle. While I could wax lyrical about Sue’s support to me since I joined in 2016, I asked my predecessor, John Phillips, to share a few The lifetime allowance was introduced in 2006 to contain memories of their time together. Best of luck, Sue! the maximum amount that can be held within an individual’s tax-privileged pension pots. Having been originally set at £1.5 million, this then increased to £1.8 My tribute to Sue, million in 2011, but it has since been progressively reduced until it became £1 million in 2016. April 2018 saw the first by John Phillips increase in seven years, albeit modest, and the limit now I first met Sue in May 2003 when she was employed by the IoD in the stands at £1,030,000. West Midlands to administer our chartered director programme but So how can someone unwittingly fall into this trap of from 2009 she started to work directly with me, supporting our having a pension pot that exceeds this allowance? After all, members in all the many activities the IoD operates locally. even £1,030,000 sounds like quite a large amount. Professionally she was brilliant and having come from the While there are many ways of being exposed to this Birmingham Post her excellent communication and organisational potential tax charge, there are two reasons which may stand skills were soon put into action. Over the years we got ourselves into out: some tight scrapes but we both survived and can now look back on 1) Defined Benefits Pension Schemes;commonly known these times with much humour. as Final Salary Pension schemes, which provide an income In the early days we were always short of helping hands in the in retirement rather than a pension pot. An individual may office and had great fun taking on business students to help us out. have left a company many years ago having earned All who came through the door had to pass Sue’s stringent English entitlement to what might be considered a modest pension. test which meant they actually had to spell and display excellent That pension will have been indexed by inflation, or even grammar! Ironically the only person to get 100 per cent was a German better since the date they left service. It could therefore be a student – someone we are both still in contact with to this day. far greater value than expected. Once this annual amount is We made friends with our colleagues in IoD Paris and dreamed up multiplied by 20 for the purposes of assessing its value some excuses to visit them on several occasions, which again were against the lifetime allowance, what might have appeared as great fun. a modest annual amount suddenly takes on a new One of my favourite IoD events which we organised together was a significance. party to celebrate the Queen’s Silver Jubilee in 2012. We were able to 2) Death in Service Benefit;where a multiple of salary is use a private area at Snow Hill Station and one of the steam engines payable on death of an employee to a nominated from the Railway Museum joined us with some beautiful vintage beneficiary, within a traditional ‘registered’ company Group Pullman coaches. The best part for me was the red, white and blue Life scheme. This also requires that the payment is included cocktails and I think Sue had to send me home in a taxi. within an individual’s lifetime allowance, a fact that is not Sue has largely chosen to stay out of the limelight but we have her generally recognised. So, whilst an employee might believe to thank for so many initiatives, including our Women as Leaders their family would be well provided for in the event of their Group, the Mastermind sessions and generally contributing so much premature death through a combination of a Death in to the work of the IoD over 15 years. Service payment and return of pension funds, they may not It is a testament to her that she has made so many be aware of the significant 55% tax charge that could eat friends from the membership and I am into these legacy payments. sure we all wish her the very best in Advice is key in both areas, as in many cases there are her next role. ways and means of mitigating if not eliminating any potential tax charge. However, the advice needs to be taken to restructure before any potential event which would result in the charge. ‘Professionally she Ascot Lloyd Corporate Financial Advisers hold the expertise to support both individuals and companies manage either was brilliant and of the above scenarios. having come from Be wise and take control. With our help, you can avoid the Birmingham such unexpected pitfalls. Post her excellent Want to know more? communication and For more information contact us at 45 Church Street, organisational skills Birmingham, B3 2RT 0121 212 5700. were soon put into action’ www.iod.com/westmids 07 News
IoD Director General Stephen Martin (fourth from left) with the new IoD Chair and regional members
On 28 September IoD West Midlands was delighted • The ambition to professionalise the role and to host Director-General Stephen Martin and our status of the director recently appointed national Chair, Charlotte • Localisation of the IoD, with greater investment Valeur, as part of a series of national roadshows to in the regions consult with members on their vision for the future Calum Nisbet said: “It was great to welcome the of the IoD’s membership offer. D-G and our new Chair and the West Midlands was The events held were the first chance for a fitting place for Charlotte to meet IoD members Charlotte to meet IoD members since taking on her for the first time. new role. “We would particularly like to thank all our Following a meeting with the regional members who gave up their Friday morning and committee to gauge the local economic picture participated with such enthusiasm in our open and to discuss structural changes to the IoD, meeting. Stephen then led an informative and enthusiastic “As you would expect, there was plenty of lively session with around 40 members, looking at three debate throughout the room!” key areas: Stephen Martin will be hosting other IoD New IoD Chair • Building a digitally-connected community of roadshows across the UK October, after which we Charlotte Valeur leaders will be able to report back his findings. Student mentoring programme ready to help our next generation of business leaders
The new University academic year has begun – and so, too, has our student mentoring programme at the University of Wolverhampton and Coventry University. Now in its ninth year, the programme matches IoD members with final year students to develop skills that will help position them for life in the workplace. Mentees meet their mentors monthly and are invited to a series of group events where they mix with business leaders to build their networking and interviewing skills, as they start to create their professional identity. The key dates for this year’s programme are below. Should you wish to be involved, please do not hesitate to get in touch with Calum. Contacts on page 3.
Mentors and Key events and dates their mentees at Wolves FC as Event University of Wolverhampton Coventry University part of the Programme Launch Monday, 29 October Thursday, 25 October IoD’s 2017-18 Speed Mentoring event Monday, 10 December Thursday, 29 November programme Mock Interviews / CV sessions Monday, 25 February Wednesday, 6 February Celebration and company visit Monday, 20 May Thursday, 16 May
08 www.iod.com/westmids HI THERE, IT’S NICE MEETING YOU. About Spaces
Spaces offers an inspiring work environment for professionals and growing businesses. Next to office space, there are memberships and meeting rooms to help you think, create and interact with like-minded people. Spaces has the goal to offer an inspirational surrounding with an entrepreneurial spirit where ideas are born, a company evolves and valuable relationships are built. Spaces has locations across the UK – including Birmingham City Centre – as well as Europe, Canada, the United States, Latin America, Africa, Australia and Asia.
For further information on Spaces please visit www.spacesworks.com or contact Area Manager Nick Haycox on 07766 160572 or via [email protected] News
From left, Calum Nisbet, Brigadier Jock Fraser (Royal Navy), Brigadier Richard Carter (Army), Michelle Williams (Holmes Noble), Gavin Williamson, Brian Hall, Stephen Martin, Colonel Richard Maybery (RFCA) and Colonel Richard Green (Army) Photos courtesy Richard Nelmes
More power for the Engine! Calum Nisbet today have encountered – is the need to experience in dealing with incredibly IoD West Midlands Regional Director improve skills in the area. challenging situations, and in crafting “A shortage of the right skills is perhaps solutions from limited resources. But IoD West Midlands was delighted to welcome the most fundamental barrier a company perhaps most importantly, you gain a deep back the Rt Hon Gavin Williamson CBE can face, and there is certainly no one understanding of what it means to work as MP to speak at our lunch in the Black silver bullet to fix the issue. a team, and what can be gained when a Country, held in his constituency at “But we have already heard about one group of people – all with different skills Himley Hall on Friday 14th September. bright spot for skills – our armed forces. and personalities – pull together in the The well-attended event, kindly With skills shortages such a pressing issue, same direction. Show me a business leader sponsored by Holmes Noble, provided an a strong and productive relationship who does not value these attributes?” insight into Gavin’s role as Defence between the business community and the But while the skills of ex-service Secretary and some fascinating details of armed forces, and with the defence sector personnel make them highly attractive to the current position on Brexit (see facing more widely, only becomes all the more employers, these same skills and qualities page). important to this region.” – resourcefulness, fortitude, and teamwork We were also pleased to hear from the His own experience as a Reservist had – are also found in successful IoD Director General, Stephen Martin, proved the value of armed services’ entrepreneurs. Those who leave the armed who spoke on the importance of training, he said. “I know that what I forces are perfectly positioned to found employers looking at the transferable skills learned during my training as a Reservist and grow the businesses of the future, of ex-military personnel to help tackle the has benefited me throughout my career. Stephen said. And to ensure this problem of skills shortages. “Within the armed forces, you gain entrepreneurial potential is able to shine, Stephen used his speech to support the “the IoD also pledged to support ex- ‘Midlands Engine’, saying that “now is an service personnel looking to establish and important time for businesses in the grow new businesses. region. “We are seeing signs that the “Our network of founders and resources ‘Midlands Engine’ is more than just a available to entrepreneurs through the IoD brand name, and that real decision- 99, is a natural place for armed forces making power is being devolved to the entrepreneurs to grow their businesses. area, an agenda the IoD is right behind. “For the region to take full advantage of “Just last week came the announcement its strengths in advanced manufacturing, that the West Midlands will be the first in the automotive sector, in the defence large-scale test bed for 5G in the UK. This sector and beyond, we need to do all we is no doubt an exciting development for can to foster a spirit of entrepreneurialism. local firms. It also looks to address one of We need to ensure that nothing stops the the key challenges identified by the businesses of today and of tomorrow from Government in its Midlands Engine thriving. Strategy published last year – the need for “Achieving this will not happen without greater connectivity. strong partnership between key sectors “Another of these three key challenges like defence, committed local politicians recognised in the strategy – and one that such as our Defence Secretary, and of I’m sure many of the business leaders here course the business leadership community.”
10 www.iod.com/westmids Defence Secretary makes the case for bold, assertive UK in the post-Brexit landscape
Simon Penfold, values of tolerance, democracy and justice Business Editor Express & Star allowed the country to “wield an enormous amount of influence around the world. But During his speech South Staffs MP Gavin soft power only works if hard power stands Williamson outlined a vision of a “more behind it. bold, more assertive” UK in the wake of “Do we believe Mr Putin actually puts a Brexit. value on democracy and justice? I think that Speaking to an audience of leaders from he does not. But we have to stand up for business and the Armed Forces, Mr those values.” Williamson also said the effectiveness and As a result, after the Salisbury chemical professionalism of the country’s Armed attack, “the message was that we did not Forces helped give the UK a leading role in stand alone, but with many, many allies, to world affairs as it stood alongside “many, say the behaviour of the Kremlin was many allies” to oppose the “completely completely unacceptable.” unacceptable” behaviour of the Kremlin The Salisbury incident, said Mr Photos courtesy Richard Nelmes following the Salisbury chemical attack. Williamson, also underlined the role of the Among his audience were several outthink them.” Armed Forces in helping identify the representatives from leading aerospace and On Brexit, he stressed that those people chemical – Novichok – trace where it came defence companies including GKN and BAE who think it is a signal that the UK is from and identify the treatment for it. The Systems. Mr Williamson, who said many of retreating from the world are wrong. “Quite services had also played a leading role in the his South Staffs constituents worked at the the reverse, in fact. As we leave the EU we subsequent clean-up operation. Wolverhampton factories of aerospace have to be more bold, more assertive. And the Defence Secretary paid a companies Moog and UTC, praised the Britain can take a greater role in the world’s personal tribute to the men and women of success of the UK defence industry in leadership.” the three services: “Not just for their winning work around the world, citing the He said Britain’s use of so-called “soft professionalism and service, not just their £6bn Typhoon jet deal with Qatar and the power”, through aid programmes, capabilities, but for their real passion and £20bn contract to build Type 46 frigates for economic links and the promotion of British commitment to the work they are doing.” Australia as proof. British companies supplied 15 per cent of the parts in the new F-35 jet fighter, he said, but the Government wanted to see UK industry doing more, investing in new technology to give itself a lead role in more IoD members international defence projects. He said: and guests “There is an appetite to work with us in the enjoy some future if we show leadership.” quality The UK faced “broader and wider” threats networking at from insurgents and some nation states, the event, said Mr Williamson. “To deter those threats including a we have to be more innovative. We can’t chance to put assume we will always have better over views to technology that our adversaries. We have to the Defence Secretary
www.iod.com/westmids 11 Export focus
Exporting for the beginner: Get on track for overseas sales
IoD East & West Midlands Export Expo Date: Monday, November 12 Time: 09.30 - 1700 Venue: Drayton Manor Hotel, Drayton Manor Drive, Tamworth B78 3TW logistics and markets such as China, Latin Cost: Members £45 + VAT; America and the Middle East, who are Non-members £55 + VAT keen to help businesses take the plunge and develop their export strategy, In August 2018 the Government launched answering any questions you may have. a new Export Strategy which ambitiously More speakers will be announced so set out how it aims to raise our exports please look at the website for more details. from 30% to 35% of our GDP and Tickets for this event are limited. We strengthen our position as one of the 21st recommend you book early to avoid century’s great trading nations. disappointment. Focusing on three key parts of the strategy Connect, Inform and Encourage, About our speakers IoD East and West Midlands are pleased to Shahid Sheikh OBE, MD of Leicester- invite you to join us for a day all things based Clifton packaging, has embedded export related! exporting into the DNA of his innovative Designed for those who are new to packaging business, with new markets in exporting or considering new markets, our Africa, Asia and Europe proving hugely event will introduce you to a number of successful for this dynamic business. IoD Members who are Export Experts, In winning the IoD East who will share their own experiences of Midlands Director of the trading internationally. Year award Shahid was Keynote speakers already confirmed are described by judges as Zeynep Turudi, founder and managing having ‘ a confident director of TRUEDE; Shahid Sheikh OBE, approach to tackling MD of Clifton Packaging and the IoD East new markets and Midlands Director of the Year; and Andy exporting that offers Wilkinson MD of OWB. unsurpassed potential for There will be an opportunity to meet the future growth.” experts supporting the DiT team in IP, Right, Shahid Sheikh
12 www.iod.com/westmids Zeynep Turudi, Truede brands. Post-grads on Zeynep is the founder and managing Andrew has director of Truede, a supplier of fabulous, worked in hunt for roles authentic Turkish Delight and other senior confectionery. Production is in Turkey but client-side Could you utilise the skills of a distribution is from the UK and the positions for postgraduate student to conduct a business re-exports back out to 15 global brands piece of research for you? Coventry countries including TNT and University are looking for industry- Zeynep is also Deputy chair of European Blagden Industries Group and marketing focused projects for postgraduate Turkish Brand Association, which has 400 agencies across the UK students who are based within the business CEOs and managing directors as and overseas. Business School. members, and is also a Business Advisory In 2017 he was awarded ‘Director of the The students are studying across Board member at the Faculty of Business Year’ in the Small Business category in the a range of business-related School, Coventry University 2017 IoD West Midlands Awards. subjects including international Zeynep was invited by business, marketing, finance, hr, Barack Obama to represent Supporting the DiT Team will sports, events and logistics. the UK at the IVLP be confirmed exporting experts Students are available to conduct International Visitor from the IoD, including Philip individual consultancy projects as Leadership Programme, Gray of Brazil Business Hub part of their final semester, to discuss A New Ltd, Don Lee of Devoch commencing the research in either Beginning: (experts in supporting UK February, June or October. The Entrepreneurship and businesses grow in China) project can be based in the Business Innovation. and Michelle Bishton and Phil workplace or remotely and the Sanger from Vault IP, who are student can dedicate a maximum Andrew Wilkinson intellectual property experts of four days per week for a period Founding partner and experienced in overseas protection, of up to 12 weeks. There is no Managing Director of OWB, the Jenny Hooper and David Hooper from charge to the host organisation. award-winning creative marketing agency, Independent Freight Solutions Ltd and For more details, contact established in Birmingham in 2000. OWB Peter Mathews CMG, Chairman at Black [email protected] designs develops and markets Country Metals Trading Ltd and one of the team at Coventry eCommerce websites and apps for global will contact you to discuss further.
www.iod.com/westmids 13 Meet a member - and the IoD Director of the Year Awards
“If I were to win this award... I would feel elated! It would be amazing and I’d view it as fantastic recognition for years of hard work and dedication to my industry. I would enjoy sharing my story to inspire any director, especially women and minorities, to showcase their achievements.” Showering visitors with cards like confetti is the best ice breaker! Earlier this year, Pertemps’ Chair and entered the awards is incredible, so I am work hard, play hard and have fun! Managing Director Carmen Watson truly honoured that the judges chose me, was named Director of the Year for the and I can’t wait to now go to the national What is your funniest experience in the West Midlands, having also won the IoD Director of the Year awards in London workplace? Inclusivity category for her on October 18. I was at a very important meeting with a commitment and hard work in I look forward to working with the IoD in potential key client, but as I entered the championing equality, diversity and the future to encourage more people to room I tripped and threw all my business inclusion in the workplace. enter for such prestigious awards to cards into the air like confetti! I composed We asked Carmen to be our inaugural celebrate their successes. myself and say “Do take a card”….. The interviewee in our new Meet a Member visitors collapsed in laughter, it was a feature, allowing us to get to know a Who has inspired you most in business? brilliant ice breaker! little bit more about some of the Steve Jobs and my ex-husband. The amazing people who are part of latter, aged 21, was offered a Boardroom Finally, you are shortlisted for the IoD West Midlands. position with a leading-edge company. Inclusivity category in the National This inspired him to have confidence in Awards in October. How would it feel to Carmen, how did it feel to win the West himself to set up on his own. He borrowed be a winner? Midlands Overall Director of the Year £500 and went on to become an award- I would feel elated! It would be amazing Award in June? wining entrepreneur in his field. and I’d view it as fantastic recognition for I was incredibly humbled and years of hard work and dedication to my overwhelmed and must give praise and What advice would you give to your industry. I would enjoy sharing my story to credit to all those within the organisation younger self? inspire any director, especially women and who have helped and supported our Accept that roadblocks will happen – be minorities, to showcase their achievements. diversity and inclusion initiatives over adaptable, find ways to deal with them. many, many years. Keep learning; educate yourself; hone your Thanks, Carmen – and best of luck at the The number of talented people who skills and keep them refreshed. Lastly, IoD Director of the Year awards
14 www.iod.com/westmids West Mids sends strong team to IoD national awards
We would like to wish all of our winners Our shortlisted finalists are: from the Regional Director of the Year Non-Exec Director Public / 3rd Sector Awards in June the best of luck as they Clive Bawden –Look After Business James McLaughlin – Cure Leukaemia head to the IoD national finals, which will Family Business Start Up be held at The Royal Horticultural Halls in Henry Deakin – Deakin & Francis Ltd Phil Neale – Snoozle London on October 18. The awards recognise exceptional Corporate Social Responsibility Chairman’s Award leadership and good governance and we Angus Drummond – Limitless Travel Dr Andy Palmer – Aston Martin Lagonda are proud to have such an impressive SME Global cohort representing the West Midlands. Dawn Hands – BMG Research Kutty Prabakaran – Enzen Group Good luck to all our nominees! Innovation Inclusivity Adam Kiani – Personal Trainer Ltd Carmen Watson – Pertemps
“It would be phenomenal to be recognised by such a prestigious body as the IoD” www.iod.com/westmids 15 Farewell to Dr Jason Wouhra OBE
The highlight of the IoD West Midlands’ summer diary was a wonderfully informal and enjoyable barbecue at Birmingham’s Botanical Gardens, where members said a fond farewell and thank you to outgoing regional chair Dr Jason Wouhra, who stood down from his position after five years in the role in July. On what was a gloriously warm evening in keeping with the hot summer we all enjoyed, the tropical gardens were an appropriate setting for this event. Compered by regional director Calum Nisbet, the evening saw Dr Jason thank all those who had helped him throughout his time as chair, particularly Calum and his predecessor, John Phillips, and regional events manager Sue Hurrell. Jason was joined in the spotlight by the new regional chair, Brian Hall, and his vice-chair, Jackie Hendley, Head of Tax at Smith Cooper, who welcomed guests and outlined their priorities over their respective terms of office.
Top team: New IoD West Midlands regional chair Brian Hall and vice-chair Jackie Hendley with Dr Jason Wouhra and regional director Calum Nisbet
IoD says a warm ‘thank you’ to former chair Jason
Left, Jason and Brian Hall with Beverley Nielsen (Birmingham City University), Don Lee (Devoch Ltd) and Shuangyu Sl.
Above, Ian Priest, Jill Hitchman and Peter Suddock
16 www.iod.com/westmids Above, Calum Nisbet pays tribute to Jason during his welcoming address and (top) presents the outgoing chairman with a personalised portrait as a memento of his time in office
Top left, Jason with IoD stalwart John Goodman
Below, Colin Regan with Dr and Mrs Walker
Left, all smiles as Jason greets IoD Director of Policy Edwin Morgan www.iod.com/westmids 17 Events Diary
To book: online at www.iod.com/westmids or contact [email protected]
99 Network meets... Women as Leaders 100 Years of Women in Rob Hallmark, founder of Gruhme Policing and Visit to Date: Tuesday, 16 October West Midlands Police Time: 18:00-20:00 Venue: iHub Birmingham, 2-6 Colmore Gate History Museum Price: Free of charge Calling all 99ers! Don’t miss this opportunity to meet Date: Thursday, 18 October Rob Hallmark, founder of men’s grooming business, Time: 18:00-20:00 Gruhme. As a consumer of men’s products, Rob had Venue: Steelhouse Lane Lock-Up, struggled to find strong male brands that he truly Birmingham identified with so, with a passion for creativity, design and Cost: £12+VAT (member and guests) aesthetics, he was inspired to create his own brand £20+VAT (non-member) encompassing the qualities he found mostly absent (Buffet provided) from the modern options. Gruhme was his answer – and he was brave enough to take his idea into the fabled For this exciting event members will meet Dragon’s Den TV show. There will be also a chance for all Corinne Brazier, volunteer at West Midlands attendees to give their own 60-second micro-pitch. Police Museum, for a tour of the old police station and a presentation celebrating the Craig McVoy: Creating a leading centenary of women in policing. Please note the museum does not have a brand experience lift and there are steps and unfortunately, there is no access for mobility-impaired Date: Tuesday, 6 November you because of what you say you can members/guests. Time: 18:00-20:00 offer, but they will stay with you because Spaces are limited so book now to secure Venue: Library of Birmingham, of the experience you actually deliver. your place! Centenary Square, Customers will ultimately choose a brand Birmingham B12ND because of how it makes them feel. Cost: Free of Charge Customer experience is the no1 brand Learn the Seven Principles to Grow your differentiator today. Focus on building an Customer Loyalty with Craig McVoy, emotional connection with your customer, founder and CEO of Beyond Brand. and you’ll keep them for longer. In the UK, SMEs spend over £1bn a year With a different approach, businesses on their branding, marketing and advertising. of all sizes can deliver an amazing brand But if the experience you give your customers experience. The Beyond Brand doesn’t live up to the promise, then you’ve Methodology, Craig’s best-selling book, just wasted your money. gives you the practical skills to help you To stand out in today’s tough achieve exactly that. marketplace, you need more than just a If you want people to fall in love with good product, team or marketing strategy. your brand then find out how by booking Good is just a commodity. Customers onto this event today. Join us expect more. There will be also a chance for all for a tour To compete with market-leading attendees to give a 60 second micro-pitch. of the brands such as Amazon, Apple and police Google you need to work harder on museum building a relationship with your target markets. People might be attracted to Unpick mysteries of the employment tribunal IoD West Midlands joint event with Irwin Mitchell
Date: Thursday, 15 November Directors are delighted to invite you to our Time: 08:30-13:00 Mock Employment Tribunal where you will Venue: Irwin Mitchell LLP, gain first-hand experience of an unfair Imperial House, 31 Temple St, dismissal hearing which we have designed applies Birmingham B2 5DB to highlight the typical problems • The role of witnesses and how evidence Cost: £35+VAT members/ encountered by employers. is presented non-members You will learn: • How a decision is arrived at Have you ever wondered what happens at • What the parties are expected to do to You will have plenty of opportunities to an employment tribunal hearing? This is prepare for the hearing put questions to solicitors from Irwin your opportunity to find out. • The standards the employer will be Mitchell’s Employment Law team during Irwin Mitchell and the Institute of judged against and the burden of proof that the course of the morning.
18 www.iod.com/westmids IoD West Midlands Productivity Breakfast Series Unique chance to hear story of the Aston Martin comeback Date: Wednesday, 28 November losses. region the local economy needs to be more Time: 08:30-10:30 Andy is also the Chair of the West productive and its workforce more skilled. Venue: Aston Martin Lagonda Ltd, Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA) The WMCA is looking at how to develop Banbury Rd, Gaydon, Productivity and Skills Commission, which the necessary support for the economy, its Lighthorne Heath, has been set the task of understanding the businesses, and the people of the region in Warwick CV35 0DB true extent of the productivity challenge in order to improve their skills, productivity For the final event in our Productivity the West Midlands, identifying the and ultimately people’s wellbeing. Breakfast Series, please join us at the home component causes and making Following Andy’s presentation, you will of Aston Martin in Gaydon to hear from Dr recommendations to address the issues have the privilege of taking a behind-the- Andy Palmer CMG. Andy started his identified. scenes factory tour, to experience the professional career in 1979 as an apprentice An integral theme of the WMCA’s immaculate craftsmanship, precision and at Automotive Products Limited (UK) Statement of Intent, and running through quality techniques that go into every Aston and now leads this prestigious car the recently published Strategic Martin car. maker as President and Chief Economic Plan, is the need for Executive Officer. the West Midlands to close the This event is now full, but please let Calum Andy joined Aston Martin productivity and skills gap know if you would like to be added to a in 2014 to oversee a between the region, the UK waiting list. turnaround of the iconic and other international brand, which swung to a economies. pre-tax profit of £87m in 2017 To meet the ambitious from a loss of £163m the year growth targets and transform before, reversing eight years of the lives of those living in the
Members’ Christmas Women as SME Live guide to drinks celebrate Leaders a better business Christmas The SME Live exhibition and the festive season conference at the NEC takes place Social from 16-17 October at the NEC, Birmingham. The team at SME Live Date: Thursday, 6th December Date: Wednesday, have spent the last 12 months Time: 18.30 - 20.30 28th November creating a brilliant seminar Venue: iHub Birmingham, Colmore Gate, Time: 17.30 - 19.30 programme to help you develop 2-6 Colmore Row, Birmingham B3 2QD Venue: Lost & Found, your small business into a much Cost: Free of Charge 8 Bennetts Hill, bigger one. There will be 150 free to The IoD West Midlands’ popular Christmas Members’ Event Birmingham B2 5RS attend expert seminars sessions is the perfect opportunity to grow your network with Cost Member £20+VAT including insight and tactics from: like-minded members from businesses around the region. Non-member • Facebook, Google, Bing, ITV, Regional Director Calum Nisbet, IoD West Midlands chair £30+VAT Royal Mail Brian Hall and the branch chairs and committee members Includes buffet • Direct Marketing Association, all look forward to seeing you at the IoD West Midlands Chartered Institute of Marketing regional office at the iHub, Colmore Row, Birmingham IoD West Midlands’ Women • Cisco, SAP, Oracle, Box, Amazon between 6.30pm and 8.30pm for this festive, social event. as Leaders are celebrating Web Services This event is free of charge but please book in advance so another successful year with • HMRC, DiT, British Business we can cater for numbers. Christmas Drinks at the Lost Bank, Start Up Loans & Found in Birmingham • NatWest, PwC, Business Growth This festive and social Fund, Midlands Engine event is the perfect There are also 200 exhibitors opportunity to network with showcasing small business support the Women as Leaders and companies that can help you committee and meet win new customers, grow your like-minded members from revenue, secure funding, improve businesses around the region. your IT processes and help you We look forward to seeing build a winning team. you at the Lost & Found Register for your FREE tickets at between 5.30pm and 7.30pm. www.sme-live.co.uk www.iod.com/westmids 19 Events Diary
Pictured, Walmley Golf Club: A picturesque – but challenging May date confirmed – parkland course for IoD Golf Day
We are delighted to confirm that the IoD Members Golf Day 2019 will take place at Walmley Golf Club on Wednesday, 15th May. The day will begin with a bacon roll and hot drink at 9am, with tee off commencing at 10am. 18 holes later, we will enjoy a drink at the bar and a two-course meal in the clubhouse. The price per fourball is £225 plus vat. To book, please visit www.iod.com/westmids
Former IoD man John to deliver CMI lecture
Date: Thursday, 15 November John and Jenni will be exploring the world the knowledge, skills and behaviours Time: 18.00-20.30 of leadership and mentoring; from both a needed to be an effective leader into the Venue: MH002, Mary Seacole Building practitioner and academic point of view. future. Nursery Street, They will be sharing their leadership and Wolverhampton WV1 1AD mentoring experiences with a particular Agenda The Chartered Management Institute’s 25th emphasis on the hugely successful IoD West 6pm: Refreshments and networking - The Annual Crystal Lecture 2018 will be Midlands / University Student Mentoring Forum, Lord Swraj Paul Building, University delivered by a familiar face to all IoD programme, which they have worked of Wolverhampton Business School members – Dr John Phillips OBE. on together over the last eight 7pm: Introductions and presentation of Our former regional director years. CMI Rosebowl Award will be co-author of the keynote They will share highs, lows 7.10pm: Lecture by Dr Jenni Jones and Dr address with long-time and funny moments with a John Phillips MBE associate Dr Jenni Jones, view to demonstrate how a 8.30pm: Event concludes senior lecturer in the HR and little investment in this More details at [email protected]. Leadership Department at the valuable intervention can help uk or on 01536 207485, or see University of Wolverhampton make a huge difference. They www.managers.org.uk/events-and- Business School. can prove that mentoring builds courses/2018/november/crystal-lecture Scotland welcomes you to Conference 2018
The highlight of the IoD Scotland events calendar is its Annual Conference, which this year takes place at the world-renowned Gleneagles Hotel from November 1-2 The Conference addresses issues of relevance to all UK business leaders. Entitled The Future is Now, this year’s event will explore how organisations can ensure that they thrive rather than merely survive in these turbulent geopolitical and economic times. Speakers and panellists include Carolyn Jameson, Skyscanner; Graeme Smith, Amazon Development Centre Scotland; and Michael Welch OBE, Blackcircles.com, as well as Stephen Martin, Institute of Directors. Gleneagles and black-tie dinner, is what last year’s delegates told us: Details of further speakers can be £745 + vat, with other options “Loved it and took away knowledge found at www.iodscotland.com. available. that was immediately useful to me”, Rates start at only £150 + vat for It adds up to first-class speakers, “Revitalisation outside my own Thursday’s half-day conference, workshops, networking opportunities professional bubble”, “Really good fun workshops, Leadership Debate and in stunning surroundings for a and challenging”. networking supper. The full first-class experience. To book, go to www.iodscotland. Conference, including two nights at Don’t take our word for it! Here’s com or call Joyce on 01577 865498.
20 www.iod.com/westmids ART’s in the heart of the region’s businesses Social investment through art boosts West Midlands economy
Businesses in the West Midlands have “We are proud of our track record and been able to access £11.7m of finance the impact we have had on the economy through ART Business Loans (ART) in the in the West Midlands over the years,” says last five years, and create or protect over Steve. 2,300 jobs, thanks to a growing number of “We know there are thousands of social investors looking to put their money businesses in the region looking for the to work for more than a financial return. type of finance we provide – loans up to “The generosity and vision of investors £150,000 for any legitimate business such as the Cadbury family and local and purpose, for businesses operating in any national companies got us started,” says sector. Steve Walker, Chief Executive of ART, “and “We have over £2.5m to lend this year enabled us to leverage further private and and are looking to increase that amount, public sector funding, nationally and to meet demand, over the next five years.” locally, both to lend and to cover any losses.” ART’s mission is to boost the local Further information about investing Investments in ART now qualify for economy, enabling viable businesses in ART can be found on its website Community Investment Tax Relief (CITR), which are unable to obtain their full www.artbusinessloans.co.uk/ and greater awareness of this incentive requirements from the banks to access the invest-in-art. together with a growing interest in social, finance they need to support cashflow, Details of a new social investment community and ethical investments Steve keep trading through challenging times, opportunity with ART will be believes have contributed to a recent grow and diversify, which in turn protects announced shortly. You can register increase in support for ART. and creates jobs. your interest in advance via ART’s “Our original investors received a purely social return,” said Steve, “but with Pictured above, the interest rates remaining low, the tax relief ART lending team. in addition to a social return, particularly From left to right, for higher rate tax payers, is an attractive Andy King, Graham proposition to many more people.” Donaldson, Roz Haque CITR offers 5% per annum of the total and Martin Edmonds invested off personal or corporate tax liabilities. This equates to a pre-tax return of 6.41% for standard rate tax payers, 8.33% for higher rate tax payers and 7.14% for corporate tax payers. To obtain the relief the investment must be retained for five years.
‘We know there are thousands of businesses in the region looking for the type of finance we provide – loans up to £150,000 for any legitimate business purpose, for businesses operating in any sector. We have over £2.5m to lend this year and are looking to increase that amount, to meet demand, over the next five years.’ Steve Walker, ART (pictured) www.iod.com/westmids 21 IoD Director Development: Masterclasses
Mastermind Groups: Your specialist subject – director development The IoD West Midlands Mastermind support in a group setting that sharpens and feedback before all members share Groups bring members together to business and personal skills. a summary of topics they would like to share ideas and concerns and build The ethos is to provide a positive, discuss. strong business relationships in a safe, informal but challenging and supportive All groups include a two-course meal constructive environment. They offer a space to discuss issues that confront with wine and coffee except the combination of brainstorming, directors on a daily basis. breakfast group, which includes a full education, peer accountability and The format is simple, with introductions English breakfast.
To book: online at www.iod.com/westmids or contact [email protected]
LEAMINGTON SPA BIRMINGHAM HEREFORD AND WORCESTER Mallory Court Hotel du Vin Stanbrook Abbey Dates: Mondays, Oct 8, Nov 12 Dates: Mondays, Oct 15, Nov 12. Date: Wednesday, Oct 16 Time: 18:00 - 21:00 Time: 18:00 - 21:00 Tuesday, Nov 13 Venue: Mallory Court Country House Venue: Hotel Du Vin, 25 Church St, Time: 18:00 - 21:00 Hotel, Harbury Lane, Birmingham B3 2NR Venue: Stanbrook Abbey, Jennet Royal Leamington Spa, Cost: £30 + VAT Tree Lane, Callow End, Warwickshire CV33 9QB IoD member Gary Simpson facilitates Worcester WR2 4TY Cost: £30 + VAT this group at Hotel du Vin near Snow Cost: £30 + VAT The facilitator is David Kearns, MD, Hill station. The Herefordshire and Worcestershire Expert Investigations Ltd and mastermind group focuses on member of the IoD Coventry & supporting personal Warwickshire branch committee goals. The group is facilitated by Joanne Hodgetts, chairperson for IoD Herefordshire and Worcestershire.
SHROPSHIRE REGION-WIDE BREAKFAST GROUP Haughton Hall Women as Leaders Stone Manor Dates: All Tuesdays, Oct 16, Dates: October 9 at Hogarths Dates: Oct 25 and Nov 22 Nov 13, Dec 11 Hotel Ltd, Four Ashes Road, Time: 07:30 - 10:00 Time: 18:00 - 21:00 Dorridge, Solihull B93 8QE Venue: Hogarths Stone Manor Hotel, Venue: Haughton Hall Hotel, Nov 13 at Hillcourt Bromsgrove Road, Haughton Lane, Conference Centre, Rose Hill, Kidderminster DY10 4PJ Shifnal TF11 8HG Lickey, Birmingham B45 8RS Cost: £13+VAT Cost: £30 + VAT Time: 18:00 - 21:00 Ian Priest, IoD Black Country Branch IoD member, Geoff Williams, will Venue: Hillscourt Hotel, Rose Hill, chairman, facilitates this mastermind facilitate this group in the Brooke Lickey, Birmingham B45 8RS group which meets for a full English Suite. Hogarths Hotel Ltd, breakfast. Four Ashes Road, Dorridge, Solihull, B93 8QE Cost: £25 +VAT The Women as Leaders group now runs from two venues: Hillscourt Conference Centre in Rednal and Hogarths in Solihull and is facilitated by IoD committee member Jackie Casey, Managing Director of Success Train Ltd. STOKE & STAFFORD Weston Hall This members only event is He is a Master Practitioner of Date: Oct 31 and Nov 26 facilitated by Richard Bisiker, IoD neuro-linguistic programming Time: 18.00-21.00 Staffordshire Chairman. Richard is and other people management Venue: Weston Hall Hotel, a personal development coach, techniques. The evening includes Stafford ST18 0BA trainer and author who specialises a two-course meal with wine and Cost: £30 + VAT in communication. coffee.
22 www.iod.com/westmids West Midlands looks set for jobs boost, says new report
Birmingham to maintain its Ten fastest expanding cities by year-on-year impressive employment employment growth in Q1 2018 growth for the foreseeable Employment Level, Employment Level, future, says Irwin Mitchell Q1 2018 Growth (YoY) Q1 2018 Growth (YoY) – but Wolverhampton’s Leeds 477,400 2.3% Birmingham 574,800 1.7% Southampton 160,800 1.9% Outer London 1,798,300 1.7% outlook not quite so bright Oxford 135,600 1.9% Stoke-on-Trent 112,700 1.7% Birmingham experienced one of the Exeter 114,200 1.9% Bournemouth 95,600 1.6% highest levels of employment growth in Manchester 470,300 1.8% Cambridge 135,900 1.6% the UK in the first three months of this Source: Office for National Statistics, Cebr analysis year, according to a new report which also revealed that Coventry led the way for economic growth in the region across the maintain its impressive employment prepare will be available too. same period. growth for the foreseeable future, It will be followed by two more detailed The UK Powerhouse study is produced however, with its workforce expected to studies, with the one in January including by Irwin Mitchell and the Centre for grow by 18.4% in the next ten years. forecasts for how different regions will be Economics and Business Research (Cebr) In comparison, Coventry is predicted to performing in the next 15 years. and provides an estimate of GVA growth see employment growth of 8.7% across the The reports will be completed by the and job creation within 46 of the UK’s same period, while Wolverhampton will Centre for Economics & Business Research largest cities 12 months ahead of the see an increase of only 1.7%. (Cebr). Commenting on the decision to Government’s official figures. Chris Rawstron, partner at Irwin work with Cebr, Victoria Brackett, Chief Published recently, the latest report Mitchell in Birmingham, said: “This new Executive of Irwin Mitchell’s Business revealed that Birmingham was the sixth report shines a spotlight on how Legal Services division, said: “Cebr advises best performing city in the UK in terms of Birmingham is continuing to enjoy a high some of the world’s most prominent employment growth in the first quarter of level of employment growth and is also companies and has a superb reputation 2018, with the city’s workforce growing by expected to maintain that level of for providing insightful economic analysis, 1.7% to reach 574,800 across the period. performance across the coming years.” award-winning forecasting and decisive In terms of economic growth, Coventry business advice based on innovative was the top performer in the Midlands Brexit reports research. with its GVA growing by 2.0%. Birmingham Irwin Mitchell is producing a series of “Over the last couple of years, it has was close behind with GVA growth of 1.9%, special studies into the impact of Brexit. established iself as a go-to consultancy for but Wolverhampton’s rate of 1.5% put the The report will analyse how the West unbiased and well-informed Brexit city among the worst performing cities. Midland is expected to be affected commentary and it is behind some of the Looking to the future, there was further following the latest negotiations between UK’s most discussed Brexit-focused disappointing news for Wolverhampton, the EU and the UK. There will also be research. with the city’s GVA and employment general commentary on how Brexit “They were the ideal partner to work growth expected to fall further both stands to impact key macro with as we look to ensure we are able to across the rest of this year and into variables: unemployment, GVA, support our clients correctly as they the next decade. population growth, BoE rates prepare for Brexit.” Birmingham is expected to and the exchange rate. This • More at www.irwinmitchell.com report will be available for Chris Rawstron: Positive reports downloading from our website on Birmingham’s employment where the latest legal advice on figures what businesses need to do to
Deals round-up... with Irwin Mitchell The Birmingham office of Irwin Mitchell industry, including Alfred Hitchcock, provide the business with a higher level recently supported a deal which saw a Powell and Pressburger, David Lean, of working capital to fund its future leading costume company secure a £5m Richard Attenborough, Steven Spielberg growth plans, as well as additional working capital facility for future growth. and Martin Scorsese. It has also supplied headroom to cover the purchase of new Based in London, Morris Angel & Son a great many films and movie franchises, stock to meet the seasonal demands of Limited, otherwise known as Angels including the Carry On films, James the market. Costumes, is the longest-established Bond, Star Wars, Pirates of the Caribbean Arbuthnot Commercial ABL was advised costumier in the world. and Harry Potter. by Jon Bew and Natalie Barnes from the Angels Costumes has worked with some The £5m asset-based lending facility Banking & Finance team at Irwin of the most iconic directors in the from Arbuthnot Commercial ABL will Mitchell in Birmingham. www.iod.com/westmids 23 Director Development
Professional development in the West Mids 2019
Calum Nisbet recognised qualifications designed by anyone thinking of becoming part of an Directors for Directors under Royal Charter. exclusive network of senior professionals Since moving into our new home at iHub, The modules of the Certificate explore the recognised for their outstanding leadership we have been delighted with the attendance characteristics, mind-set and behaviours of and contribution to business. at our four role-based modules that make a boardroom executive and explain what it In 2019, we aim to run the four individual up our Certificate in Company Direction. takes to become an outstanding leader. modules that make up the Certificate in The programme is designed to equip you They are also the starting point for our Company Direction every six months, along with the knowledge and skills needed for Chartered Director qualification, an with the diploma and a few bespoke courses effective performance, covering the key international benchmark of excellence that such as the Role of the NED. areas of governance, finance, strategy and is the highest status that may be attained in These will all be held at iHub right in the leadership. the Director profession. heart of Birmingham’s business district. It is As a long-established professional IoD West Midlands is well represented by also possible to attend a local intensive awarding body, the IoD is the only institute Chartered Directors, who would be more residential course to complete the in the world to offer internationally than happy to have a discussion with certificate in just five-and-a-half days.
2019 Course Programme
Role of the Director business plans with confidence and This module introduces a more and the Board contribute more effectively to boardroom personalised approach to leadership and Delivering an essential understanding of discussion. delegates will be encouraged to the board’s role in corporate governance Course dates: 1-3 April or understand and develop their own and risk management, this introduction to 23-25 September* self-awareness and emotional intelligence. the duties and legal responsibilities of a Course dates: 3-4 June or 18-19 Nov* director will enable you to tackle the Strategy for Directors If you can’t wait that long we still challenges of the boardroom with fresh A dynamic strategic process is a critical have availability for this course on confidence and progress your career to the part of delivering stakeholder value and 19-20 Nov 2018! next level. generating competitive advantage for your Whether you’re a newly appointed organisation. This intensive course Diploma in Company director, aspiring to a position on the provides insight into the board-level board, or looking to improve your knowledge and skills required to create, Direction performance with fresh insight, this implement and evaluate your The Diploma is an opportunity to put into practical two-day course will equip you organisation’s strategy. practice the knowledge gained from the with the crucial knowledge and skill-set to Explore the relationship between Certificate in a realistic and safe fulfil your role successfully strategy, governance and risk and learn environment. Course dates: 6-7 March or how to use tools and frameworks that The diploma encourages peer-group 27-28 Aug* support strategic thinking and decision- support, challenge and stimulation, making. mirroring in many ways the operation of a Finance for Non-Financial Get the practical insights into how to board. deliver your current business objectives By replicating the issues of a ‘real’ Directors while future-proofing your organisation. organisation, you will gain hands-on In today’s business world, every director Course dates: 1-3 May or 21-23 Oct* experience that will not only enable you to needs to recognise the key financial achieve a world-class qualification, but concepts and terminology that underpin a Leadership for Directors also to make a significant impact on your successful understanding of their Strong leadership is increasingly board’s effectiveness. organisation’s financial position. fundamental to the successful realisation You will receive feedback on your own This course designed specifically for of an organisation’s vision. This intensive performance as a board member and non-financial directors and senior course provides a valuable opportunity for return to your organisation ready to tackle managers and will demystify the world of directors to explore strategic leadership future challenges with greater expertise finance, allowing you to monitor the issues both within and beyond their and confidence. financial health of your business, evaluate organisation. Course dates: 2-4 September*
Course details: Time: 09.30 –17:00 Venue: iHub, Colmore Gate, 2-6 Colmore Row, Birmingham, B3 2QD
24 www.iod.com/westmids Mastermind creates new conversation for Midlands duo
Meeting room 1 at the iHub
Role of the Non-Executive Two West Midlands IoD members have Samantha formed a new venture after meeting and Rachel – Director through one of our regional Mastermind started a This comprehensive programme is groups. conversation designed to equip you with practical Samantha Griffiths and Rachel Bowden after an IoD strategies to build your network, raise your created Board Conversations to deliver Mastermind profile to secure an appointment, and add board effectiveness reviews, support and group that led value in the boardroom. training. to a new As more individuals choose ‘portfolio The pair have developed a toolkit to business careers’ and demand for non-executive support Boards’ value delivery. directors continues to rise within multiple “The toolkit and our focus on value sectors including third sector organisations creation allows our services to move away and private companies, it has never been from the traditional checklist mentality that more important to understand the critical can often be found when evaluating board requirements and appropriate skill set of a performance,” explained Sam. non-executive director. “The framework allows us to scale Gain practical advice from an solutions to fit the needs of the business and experienced portfolio non-executive to help the top team get the most from their director and participate in interactive case limited senior resource.” studies. Discover the latest interview tips Having met last year, Rachel and Sam from top industry head-hunters and put have invested significant time your questions to guest speakers who will fundamentally rethinking board be on hand to offer expert guidance. effectiveness and developing the toolkit The programme includes an evening drawing on their many years of working drinks reception and a three course dinner with boards across diverse sectors. at a local restaurant, offering a fantastic Based in Birmingham, the duo are opportunity to network amongst your peers helping boards gain insight into their role in and guests. value creation and how value is articulated Course dates: 4 July to stakeholders. To find out more about Board Conversations visit www. * Please note that all dates for the boardconversations.com or contact second half of 2019 are provisional Samantha and Rachel through [email protected]
• To find out about your local mastermind group see pg 22 For more information on how to book on to any of these courses, please visit www.iod.com/westmids/courses Or call Calum Nisbet on 0121 643 7801 www.iod.com/westmids 25 Black Country spotlight / Voluntary roles
Built in the Black Country – sold around the world Paul Brown Recently, I was reminded of something that Lenin once said: “There are decades The i54 Enterprise Zone has been a stunning where nothing happens and there are success, creating over 4,000 jobs weeks where decades happen.” Well, it’s been one of those weeks for what seems like most of this year! That said, I will attempt to write this article with no reference to Brexit, Trump, North Korea, Putin, May, Corbyn or indeed Boris. How dull and boring you might think, but you may well be surprised! It’s quite easy sometimes, when discussing the West Midlands, that the conversation can focus on Birmingham, and let’s face it, Birmingham is going through a transformation. The City of a Thousand Trades and a leading light of the industrial revolution is transforming itself into a world-class destination. Integral to all of this, of course, is the Black Country. Yes, we can go back to the 1840s and discuss the heavy industries that gave it its name from the soot and smoke that once filled the skies, and you increase, with an economy generating Midlands Local Industrial Strategy, leading could go back even further to the 1780s £20bn GDP. on the evidence gathering and production where the 14-mile road between The Black Country was second only to of the key sector actions plans. Within this Birmingham and Wolverhampton was London with the highest proportion of UK the Black Country is driving for a new described as ‘one continuous town’. businesses founded in 2013 that went on initiative – a regional ‘Productivity But fast forward today and once again to generate at least £1m in revenues after Factory’– aiming to boost efficiencies Wolverhampton is in the headlines as one three years. within the extensive, complex and diverse of the three cities in the region that will be Despite these successes there are still a supply chains. part of the £150m Government investment number of important challenges where the There is so much more to say about the for the 5G testbed with the initial focus Black Country and its partners continue to Black Country; I could continue and being for health, construction and lead on finding solutions for the persisting discuss some of the work the Black automotive sectors. skills gaps across a number of sectors. The Country is doing on housing such as the In fact, it was in April earlier this year Black Country Skills Factory has Garden City, or the £150M fund to support that the Chancellor, Philip Hammond and significantly improved the ability of the re-use of brownfield land and West Midlands Mayor, Andy Street, visited advanced manufacturing businesses to buildings for residential and commercial a small car manufacturer called Westfield, access the training provision they require development, or indeed transport based in Dudley, which is at the forefront through the brokerage of bite-sized course initiatives including the Midland Metro of autonomous car technologies. The with an employer led approach. Wednesbury to Brierley Hill extension. Black Country as a whole is responsible for Additionally, a new £12.3m Elite Centre I’ve not mentioned either the significant around a fifth of automotive and for Manufacturing Skills opened for role the Black Country will play at the aerospace output for the UK including business recently in Wolverhampton, Commonwealth Games in 2022 such as supply chains, and recent research providing specialist training in key skill hosting the new state-of-the-art Aquatics suggests that the Black Country could be shortages, while Dudley College is hoping Centre being built in Smethwick, Sandwell, your source for up to 80 per cent of the to get full backing for a new Institute of including a 5,000 seat facility with an components you need for a high Technology. Olympic-sized competition pool and performance carbon-efficient car. In July of this year, the Black Country 25metre diving pool. The Black Country is now home to was announced as one of 20 places to host All good stuff with many exciting years 38,000 companies with an employment a ‘Careers Hub’ to help transform careers ahead for the region, I think… rate increasing considerably faster than and education of young people. It will be Birmingham and the UK overall. The i54 made up of 36 schools and colleges, Enterprise Zone in Wolverhampton is working together with Enterprise Advisor Paul Brown is a Board Member of the England’s most successful EZ by jobs Networks, universities, training providers, Black Country LEP and Visiting created, with over 4,000 jobs delivered and employers and career professionals to Professor at Birmingham City 320,000 sqm of industrial space. It, like the improve education. University. rest of the region, has a GVA per head The Black Country is also heavily He can be contacted at paul.brown2@ below the national average but it is on the involved with the development of the West bcu.ac.uk or via 07827 881480
26 www.iod.com/westmids Trustees making a difference David Trevis-Smith looks at some of the superb opportunities available to directors looking to help the voluntary sector
Charities and other not-for-profit the Board in the process of blending eight Contact admin@heritagetrustnetwork. organisations make a vital contribution to schools which had previously operated as org.uk or Sarah McLeod, Chair, Heritage both the economy and our society. With individual units. Trust Network, 13-15 Fleet Street, key responsibility for governing and Birmingham, B3 1JP directing the organisation, Trustees with So do you feel inspired to want a make commercial experience, volunteering just a difference to a local group that could West Midlands Historic Buildings Trust, a few hours a month, play a key role and use your experience and knowledge? If Worcestershire Building Preservation can make a significant difference to the so, here are just a few current Trust, and City of Wolverhampton effectiveness of a not-for-profit opportunities to consider. Regenerating Buildings Preservation organisation and the delivery of its Trust charitable mission. Dudley Canal and Tunnel Trust www.wmhbt.org.uk work When IoD member Jeff Luesley retired www.dudleycanaltrust.org.uk These three groups work collaboratively as Managing Director of Inspectorate The trust operates public boat trips into to safeguard buildings of historical and/or Group and a main board director of BSI, the unique and fascinating Dudley architectural importance within the West his love of canal boating and desire to Tunnels and Limestone Caverns. It is Midlands and Worcestershire which are at make a difference led him to become NED seeking to recruit a Trustee to help shape risk of being lost. Chair of what is now Dudley Canal and and develop the future of this There are over 10,000 listed buildings Tunnel Trust. longstanding and ambitious organisation. within that catchment area, with an His years of commercial experience Contact [email protected] or Jeff estimated 500 considered to be ‘at risk’. have been put to great use; under his Luesley, Chair, Dudley Canal and Tunnel Contact Sue Whitehouse at leadership, the board has driven Trust, 501 Birmingham New Road, Dudley, [email protected] or write development of an award-winning new West Midlands DY1 4SB to: Chair, West Midlands Historic visitor centre, the merger of its two Buildings Trust, Adam House, charities and the extension of its Heritage Trust Network Birmingham Road, Kidderminster DY10 management and executive team. www.heritagetrustnetwork.org.uk 2SH Directors at any stage of their career can This is a grassroots charity that provides make a difference by finding time to peer-to-peer support, knowledge Citizens Advice Dudley Borough volunteer as a Trustee. IoD member Dean sharing and skills development among its The advice group is looking for up to Kavanagh, winner of the IoD West membership of over 200 local heritage three trustees to join their successful and Midlands Young Director of the Year groups throughout the UK, with a dynamic trustee board supporting a award 2015 and NED of the Year award volunteer corps in excess of 10,000 people. phenomenal charity who changes the lives 2017, has recently completed a very As part of a strategic review, its main of over 17,000 people per year across the successful term as Foundation Director office base recently relocated from London Borough of Dudley. and Chairman of the Romero Catholic to Birmingham. If you are interested to find out more, Academy in Coventry, with over 3,000 Guidance and advice helps groups contact Laura Thomas, CEO on laura. students, 500 employees and a £15 million rescue and protect heritage properties, [email protected] or ring budget. from getting a project started through to on 07929343082; or contact Kari Shepherd, Under his leadership, a vision and post-completion and ongoing operation business support manager on mission have been developed that unified and maintenance. [email protected] www.iod.com/westmids 27 Employee wellbeing with BHSF
Catching them before they fall How to support your employees’ mental health Research shows that just 15 per information they give is confidential, in cent of employees would tell their order for this to be an accurate assessment. line manager about a mental health issue. With poor mental health When should employers intervene? affecting an increasing number of Action taken at the earliest stage can the UK’s working population, it is help to resolve the issue efficiently and crucial that businesses address the prevent further deterioration. If an employer is concerned about an stigma attached to mental health in individual’s wellbeing, working with an the workplace. occupational health service can allow Dr Philip McCrea, Chief Medical them to encourage an early referral before Officer at BHSF Occupational they are signed off from work. Health, shares his advice on supporting employees and creating Diagnosing a mental health problem a more open culture: Expert clinicians are best placed to diagnose a mental health problem. In order to provide a detailed assessment, they will conduct a clinical interview to In BHSF’s latest report, Hiding in plain build a picture of the employee’s mental sight: mental health in the workplace, the wellbeing. Occupational health is covered real reason employees call in sick has been by the ethical codes of confidentiality, so revealed – with 42 per cent of employees employees are not obliged to tell their claiming a physical illness when in reality employer anything. it is a mental health issue keeping them from work. Vital support for workplace The research also highlights the need for mental health workplace awareness, with 79 per cent of events, could encourage staff to open up. By introducing HR initiatives, employers workers admitting that their employer Breaking the silence is the first step can offer staff an extra support system. HR does not offer dedicated mental health towards combating the stigma attached to tools, such as Employee Assistance support. This lack of support has led to an mental health. Programmes, offer vital assistance and average of 8.4 sick days taken each year, Early intervention strategies can be have become integral in establishing a per employee, due to poor mental health incredibly valuable for employers and, proactive approach to mental health in the – causing an increasing strain on the UK’s more importantly, their employees. Early workplace. workforce. intervention measures include the Now is the time for businesses to look at provision of mental health first aiders, or their current approach to mental health What early intervention strategies nominated responsible people that are and make improvements where necessary. can employers implement? amenable to offer support. It is the employer’s responsibility to Many people are reluctant to discuss eradicate the stigma that exists in the mental health issues with their manager, Mental health first-aiders workplace by creating an open culture, as they fear it could affect promotion or Most employers, no matter how small and introducing measures to support worry that their peers will judge them. This they are, will have a first-aider, as it is employee wellbeing. By prioritising mental only reinforces the stigma surrounding required by law. Encouraging a nominated health, employers could see a huge mental health issues. first-aider to train as a mental health first- transformation in staff engagement, In order to challenge this stigma, aider makes good business sense, as it retention and even productivity. workplace culture must be open and allows employees to raise any issues before supportive, encouraging employees to they reach crisis point and start to have a For more information and to approach their colleagues or line manager detrimental effect on the organisation. download the full report: Hiding in with issues of this nature. plain sight: mental health in the Survey your workforce workplace, please visit: Regular communication Confidential surveys are a great www.bhsfoh.co.uk/reports/ There are simple ways that employers technique to establish a baseline. Not only mentalhealth can show that they care about the is a mental health survey low cost, it is also For more information please visit: wellbeing of their staff. Regular an effective way of benchmarking your www.bhsfoh.co.uk. communication about mental health organisation against other employers. Alternatively, please call during one-to-one lunches, or even team Employees must be assured that the 0121 0333 344 3800. 28 www.iod.com/westmids Tackling the UK productivity challenge by Carly Clyne, BHSF do the job. I can see it, I care and I – The event was facilitated know I can do it. by Steve Bott With the UK’s productivity lagging behind Neil Armitage, CEO of Archery rivals in the G20, and the West Midlands as GB, focused on two key areas to meaning ‘just the right amount’ a region performing among the worst in improve productivity: – and is probably why Sweden is the UK, the IoD and its patrons, BHSF, Empowerment – allow one of the happiest countries in have held a series of business breakfasts to people to own what they do, get the world, with a healthy share best practice around improving your teams together and work-life balance and high workplace productivity. empower them to make decisions standards of living. The third took place at the iHub, Motivation and incentives – people Alison spoke about how more open Birmingham on September 27. The like recognition, identify motivational communications, collaborative decision interactive session saw three key speakers incentives that resonate with your teams. making and employees having the options sharing their thoughts about successful Ensure positive results are highly visible, to work remote and more flexibly can help teamwork, taking examples from the world show off the good work, encouraging to improve levels of productivity. of sport, the automotive industry and others to do the same. The final event in the productivity series Norwegian working culture. The speakers Neil also spoke about the importance of takes place at Aston Martin on November then spent time with each group of adopting technology and not being blind 28, where we will hear from Dr Andy delegates to discuss experiences, share to technology. Embracing technology can Palmer CMG, Chief Executive Officer. You ideas and thoughts on how best to tackle help to increase your levels of will also have the privilege of taking a the productivity issue. productivity. behind-the-scenes factory tour. Steve Bott, director of Efficient Thinking Alison, UK Managing Director of Zacco Solutions Ltd, puts high levels of Ltd, a Norwegian company with high ‘Their phrase for this was productivity down to four key areas: levels of productivity, spoke about the ‘Lagom’ – meaning ‘just the I see – make sure information is visible Nordic model and the reasons why to everyone, share knowledge and allow productivity levels are so high in right amount’ – and is people to talk and share ideas Scandinavia. The UK ranked 17th in the probably why Sweden is one I can – give people a chance – empower table for productivity compared to our them to make their own decisions Scandinavian counterparts who had much of the happiest countries in I care – if people are given responsibility, higher levels of productivity but also the world, with a healthy they will care more worked a shorter week and had higher work-life balance and high I will – accept that mistakes will happen, levels of happiness. but give people confidence that they can Their phrase for this was ‘Lagom’ standards of living...’ Charity spotlight
An evening to jump at with racing legend AP McCoy Midlands Air Ambulance Charity event offers a rare opportunity to hear from the greatest jump jockey of all time
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity is inviting IoD members to ‘An Evening with Sir AP McCoy OBE’. Taking place on Friday, 23rd November at The Belfry in Sutton Coldfield, this exclusive evening, which includes a luxurious three-course meal, is a chance to hear from one of sport’s true legends. Renowned for being the greatest jump jockey of all time, Sir Anthony dominated the equestrian world for over two decades. He ended his phenomenal career as Champion Jockey for the 20th consecutive year, and was awarded both the BBC’s Sports Personality of the Year (2010) and BBC’s Sports Personality Lifetime ambulance. Achievement Award (2015). The organisation has three helicopters, The evening will give guests a rare and strategically located across the six personal insight into Sir Anthony’s Midlands counties served by the charity. incredible career as well as raise vital Each helicopter has a crew of a pilot and funds for the Midlands Air Ambulance two critical care paramedics, or a critical Charity, which unfortunately airlifts a care paramedic and trauma doctor. horse rider every four days. In addition, the charity has a critical Speaking about the event, Sir Anthony care car, based in the Birmingham and McCoy, said: “Midlands Air Ambulance the Black Country area. Manned by a Charity does a fantastic job saving lives on critical care paramedic, the car is a daily basis. The racing community dispatched to those suffering with heart greatly values the work of the air attacks, cardiac arrests, respiratory issues ambulance, due to the dangers involved and sepsis. with the sport, which is why I’m delighted The aircrew can be mobilised to an to support Midlands Air Ambulance incident within two minutes and on Charity and the important work they do.” average attend up to six missions per day. Each Midlands Air Ambulance Charity The three most common reasons air ambulance mission costs £2,500, which Midlands Air Ambulance is called out are is entirely funded through charitable road traffic collisions, falls and heart donations from the communities it serves conditions, which collectively equate to 60 and local businesses. This is why events per cent of all dispatches. such as the eagerly awaited Evening with Tickets for the evening are available Sir AP McCoy OBE are so important in from The Ticket Factory, just search ‘AP helping to raise funds for the lifesaving McCoy’. For more information and how service. you and your business can help fund a To date, the charity has tended to mission, please contact Midlands Air 50,000 people who were in critical need of Ambulance Charity on 0800 8 40 20 40, or advanced care and the speed of an air visit www.midlandsairambulance.com
“Midlands Air Ambulance Charity does a fantastic job saving lives on a daily basis. The racing community greatly values the work of the air ambulance, due to the dangers involved with the sport, which is why I’m delighted to support Midlands Air Ambulance Charity and the important work they do.” Sir Anthony McCoy 30 www.iod.com/westmids