ChamberSpring 2018 Voice Suffolk Chamber’s manifesto for business No More Not-Spots campaign is launched! aims for 100% mobile coverage

Sandy Martin MP on the role of business in society

Q&A with Norse Group’s sales director

Jules Shorrock on workplace

www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 harassment and discriminationChamberVoice 2018 1 Chamber Welcome

President’s CEO welcome address These are busy and exciting times for Suffolk Reading through Chamber of Commerce. this issue of Firstly, our signature campaign – No More Chamber Voice, A14 Delays in Suffolk – received a major boost I’m impressed with late last year (see page five for details). After the sheer range of months of evidence gathering and lobbying, different voices Highways England released its Strategic Road represented in it. Network Initial Report and designated the A14 But then, this in Suffolk as a “current, planned and potential accurately reflects expressway”. the growing diversity and agility of our There are still a number of hurdles to jump business community and the county’s over, but the indications at this stage is that this wider society. road of national importance is closer to being There are articles by two of Suffolk’s most upgraded than ever before. prominent businesswomen. On page eight Secondly, we actively supported the launch of Jules Shorrock, chair of Suffolk Chamber in the British Chambers of Commerce’s No More Lowestoft and Waveney, recounts her Not-Spots campaign in March (see page three). own experience of gender discrimination The aim of the campaign is straightforward: by and her wise words to others as to how to 2020 UK phone users will no longer experience deal with such issues. not-spots for voice coverage in locations used On page 20, Ginny Idehen, chair of Suffolk for home, work, travel or play. Business Women, talks about the group’s It is vital that businesses and residents submit successes, ongoing challenges and future their own experience of not-spots to their plans to broaden its remit. operators in order make the best case possible We are also fortunate to be carrying for improved coverage in each affected area. interviews with two of the county town’s You can also raise issues via Twitter, using most high-profiled personalities and hashtag #shareyournotspot. Please don’t rely on regulations, improving access to all markets and passionate advocates: Terry Baxter, chair others to do it! giving business the tools to do the job. of Ipswich Central and managing director Finally, we have placed these two campaigns, Suffolk Chamber’s five town areas and two of Inspire Suffolk, and Sandy Martin MP. alongside the dozens of other initiatives in which sectoral boards are now developing specific There is a detailed Q&A on pages 12 and we are involved, into a broader strategic context manifestos of their own within the framework 13 with Geoff Tucker of Suffolk Chamber by launching our Manifesto for Business (see established by this Suffolk Chamber document. patron Norse Group, which showcases the page three). So, as you can see, there is much to be company’s incredible strengths and We have identified the current strengths of optimistic about – and your Chamber is at the ambitions. the Suffolk economy, its future potential and the heart of ensuring a prosperous future for the Talking of patrons, I’m delighted to improvements and investment needed to realise county. welcome aboard our 16th – PeoplePlus that future. (page six). Suffolk Chamber’s campaigning will focus on John Dugmore In addition, this edition carries updates on three key issues: reducing unnecessary Chief Executive two schemes in which Suffolk Chamber is playing a role: Improving Wellbeing & Health initiative (page four) and the Contents University of Suffolk’s ground-breaking course on international transportation 3 No More Not-Spots campaign launched 11 Two great Chamber benefits (page five) – a must-attend for those in the 4 Lowestoft Vision goes for renewal 12-13 Greg Tucker of Norse Group answers haulage and logistics sectors involved in 5 A14 campaign edges closer to success some key questions importing and exporting. 6 PeoplePlus becomes 16th Chamber patron 14-15 Suffolk Chamber member news I could go on, but there isn’t the space 7 Business advice columns 16 Suffolk Chamber February networking lunch except to say that I hope you enjoy this 8 Q&A with Jules Shorrock 17 Suffolk Chamber Prestige Dinner issue of your business magazine. 9 Sandy Martin MP’s priorities 18-19 New Suffolk Chamber members 10 Q&A with Terry Baxter 20 Ginny Idehen on Suffolk Business Women Graham Abbey, President Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Chamber Patrons

South Kiln, Felaw Maltings 42 Felaw Street, Ipswich IP2 8SQ Tel: 01473 680600 Fax: 01473 603888 Email: [email protected] Web: www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Advertising: [email protected] Design: Features Design, Archant Printed by: Stephens & George Cover pictures: David Garrad

2 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber News Suffolk Chamber’s new manifesto ‘builds on our campaigning successes’

uffolk’s leading business membership Picture: David Garrad organisation has unveiled its manifesto for Sthe next three years, setting out the priorities it will be campaigning for on behalf of both its members and the wider business community. Titled A Manifesto for Business, Suffolk Chamber of Commerce has identified the current strengths of the Suffolk economy, its future potential and the improvements and investment needed to realise that future. Chief executive John Dugmore says: “Suffolk Chamber believes the potential future for the county is one characterised by an innovative, internationally successful and diverse economy, high value and high waged jobs and a strong education sector delivering a skills base that is as good as any in the country. “We are also looking to attract increasing levels of inward investment that delivers business and economic growth while ensuring a balance with the county’s attractive Suffolk Chamber’s manifesto was launched at Wherstead Park in February. countryside, towns and villages.” Suffolk Chamber’s campaigning will focus on Better Business For All. how Suffolk is marketed to the rest of the three key issues: Suffolk Chamber is also seeking country and internationally to promote greater ● reducing unnecessary regulations improvements in procurement opportunities investment. ● improving access to all markets so that all local public sector partners better In giving businesses the tools to do the job, ● giving business the tools to do the job. engage with businesses when deciding upon Suffolk Chamber is especially keen for a their supply chain contracts. streamlined and simplified planning system to Under the theme of reducing regulations, the In terms of improving access to markets, as ensure the interests of businesses are better chamber wants a reform of business rates, well as road, rail and telephony infrastructure heard, both in the development of new local including the removal of all plant and upgrades, the chamber will be stepping up our plans and through more business-friendly machinery from the valuation of property and campaigns for improved international trade planning practices that explicitly support a continued roll-out of initiatives, such as support for Suffolk firms and a sharpening of economic and business growth.

Suffolk Chamber backs launch of ‘No More Not- Spots’ campaign, urges businesses to participate

n March the British Chambers mobile phone network doesn’t order make the best case possible of Commerce (BCC) launched meet their needs in accessing new for improved coverage in each Iits campaign for ‘No More and existing customers, suppliers affected area. Not-Spots’, with the aim of ending and employees. “You can also raise issues via not-spots for voice coverage John Dugmore, Suffolk Twitter, using hashtag where UK phone users live, work, Chamber’s chief executive, says: #shareyournotspot.” travel and play. Suffolk Chamber “The aim of the campaign is Dr Adam Marshall, director of Commerce is fully in support of straightforward: by 2020 UK general of the BCC, added: “A this much-needed campaign. phone users will no longer reliable mobile phone signal is one The UK’s leading business group experience not-spots for voice of the most basic requirements for has launched a campaign that will coverage. any business, as more and more bring together business “Suffolk Chamber’s No More conversations and transactions communities and those involved in Not-Spots campaign will raise take place while people are on the delivering coverage to identify awareness of the issue among go. Unfortunately, dropped calls coverage challenges and work businesses and residents and will and poor signal remains an issue in through solutions to improve poor encourage them to report many areas across the UK. mobile coverage. not-spots to their operators. “We will be campaigning for an Not-spots, and areas of partial “We are asking people to selfserve/215e/ end to mobile phone ‘not spots’ all not-spots hamper UK businesses. register their not-spots both with shareyournotspots#? across the UK, so businesspeople A recent survey by the BCC of their mobile service provider and “It is vital that people submit can connect to customers, over 1,400 companies, found that with the BCC at www.research. their own experience of not-spots suppliers and staff – and so local a fifth (21%) of firms say the UK britishchambers.org.uk/survey/ via their operators’ websites in communities can better connect.” www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 3 Chamber News Improving Workplace Health awareness campaign launched

uffolk Chamber of Commerce has teamed Picture: Public Health Suffolk how we can all boost our mental and physical up with Public Health Suffolk to strength. Sencourage local businesses to work with Suffolk Chamber will also be working with staff on ways to improve their overall mental Public Health Suffolk in targeting medium-sized and physical health and wellbeing. businesses across the county to encourage Absenteeism carries a huge financial burden them and their staff to participate in a snapshot for businesses, with more than 130 million of each workplace’s wellbeing at the start and working days lost in the UK every year due to at the end of the campaign. illness and incapacity, costing the British The questionnaire is called the Warwick- economy approximately £29bn per year. Edinburgh Mental Well-Being Scale and asks Improvements in workers’ health and staff to respond with their level of agreement wellbeing also benefit the quality of life of to 14 statements about their feelings during the millions of workers and reduce the pressure on previous two weeks. our over-stretched health services. Operations Director of Suffolk Chamber That is why Suffolk Chamber and Public Amanda Ankin says: “We are delighted to be Health Suffolk have teamed up to for an involved in this campaign as we recognise the awareness-raising campaign, which runs until importance of staff health to the individuals the summer, called Improving Workplace concerned, the profitability of businesses and Health. the whole Suffolk economy.” Suffolk Chamber and Public Health Suffolk Abdul Razaq of Public Health Suffolk Abdul Razaq, Suffolk County Council’s will be using the Chamber’s website (www. Director of Public Health and Protection, says: suffolkchamber.co.uk/initiatives/improving- health and wellbeing. “I am pleased Suffolk County Council is workplace-health/) as well as its email Underpinning this campaign is Public Health enhancing our partnership with Suffolk marketing reach and media support to provide Suffolk’s Five Ways to Health (find it at www. Chamber of Commerce to support local employers and their staff with information and healthysuffolk.org.uk/projects/5-ways-to- businesses to further develop healthier ideas aimed at improving their workplace wellbeing) which provide general ideas as to workplaces.” Chance to vote in vision for another five years of success

Picture: Charlie Ketchen Photography The business improvement district for parking initiatives, the Discover Suffolk’s second largest town is gearing Lowestoft website and a series of great up for a ballot of all levy-payers to events, including last year’s 1940s renew its contract for another five years weekend and incredibly successful of great initiatives. annual Halloween parade and Turtle Lowestoft Vision, which is run by Suffolk and Freddie the Fish trails.” Chamber of Commerce, has helped All of the businesses within the business buck the national trend by boosting improvement district should by now footfall in the town centre by 2.9%. have received their ballot papers to Lowestoft Vision has focussed on four vote on the renewal of Lowestoft key themes aimed at making the retail Vision in May. To secure renewal, areas more attractive, more appealing, Lowestoft Vision needs the approval in more influential and more secure. a ballot of over 50% of those Lowestoft Vision chair Danny Steel says: organisations, both by weight of “We are not here to replace existing numbers and rateable value. services already provided by local Danny concludes: “I really believe councils or the police, but to deliver Lowestoft Vision is making a major exciting additional schemes that contribution to turning our great town increases footfall and makes our town around and I look forward to having centre a more attractive place to work another five years to build on that and visit. success.” “Headline successes include the For further information about how part-funding of a Police Community Lowestoft Vision is changing the town Support Officer to patrol our town, the centre for the better, visit The Lowestoft Vision team effective use of security radios, free www.lowestoftvision.co.uk

4 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber News Suffolk Chamber expands team with appointment of business development manager

he county’s leading in Fleet Street in the early Chamber’s membership levels business body has 1990s, before moving onto across Suffolk, as well as Trecruited Stuart Rex Features, later to become building on our fantastic Franklin, the previous Shutterstock, a leading stock relationships with our current managing director of BizClik photography, footage and members and patrons.” Media based in Norwich, to music company. There Stuart Amanda Ankin, Suffolk take up the newly created specialised in finding new Chamber’s operations role of business development business, as well as retaining director, says: “Stuart is a manager. current business for the successful and versatile Suffolk Chamber of company. business development Commerce is looking to He moved to Suffolk for professional who will add to further grow its already family reasons in 2015. our reach in recruiting new impressive membership based Stuart says: “I’m delighted members and in building even on the breadth of its offer to to have joined Suffolk better relationships with our all sizes and sectors of Chamber of Commerce, existing ones. companies - from which I’ve known previously “We’re delighted to have because of its great reputation him as part of our team and multinationals to start-ups. Picture: David Garrad Stuart has more than 25 among the county’s business look forward to continuing to yearws’ experience in media, community. I’m looking grow the chamber’s ongoing Suffolk Chamber of Commerce business sales, and advertising, starting forward to growing the success story.” development manager Stuart Franklin

A14 in Suffolk Suffolk Chamber identified as a potential expressway achieves unique status

ampaigners looking to secure uffolk Chamber of On the basis of this he made government investment at seven Commerce reached a a successful application to the C pinch points along the A14 in Suffolk Smilestone earlier this skills funding agency. have welcomed the news that the road has year in becoming the one and Suffolk Chamber can now been identified as a possible expressway. only chamber in the country conduct the end point Highways England, the government- to be accredited as an end assessment for the Chartered owned company with responsibility for the point assessment organisation Manager Degree operation, maintenance and improvement for the Chartered Manager Apprenticeship, a degree level of the motorways and trunk roads in Degree Apprenticeship. apprenticeship, with the England, issued its Strategic Road Network With the demand for added professional accolade Initial Report late last year. higher level apprenticeships for the learner of achieving Within it, the A14 in Suffolk is marked as growing among employers, Chartered Management a ‘current, planned and potential there is now the opportunity Institute Chartered Manager expressway’. Expressways are motorway- for learners to achieve a Status on completion. grade two-lane highways and their degree level apprenticeship. This is a massive designation requires that all junctions off Part of this involves giving achievement for Suffolk and onto them are enhanced. The report employers much more of a Chamber of Commerce. outlines the phased process in upgrading a direct role in the final Robert Turnbull of Suffolk Robert says: “This widens highway into an expressway, including assessment of an apprentice. Chamber of Commerce further the enterprise improvements to junctions with other In essence, the learner chief executive at Suffolk support we can give which roads – the key demand of the Suffolk completes the course at the Chamber of Commerce, to now includes the leaders of Chamber-led No More A14 Delays in college, training provider or encourage the chamber to tomorrow.” Suffolk. university and then the become an end point John Dugmore says: “This Suffolk Chamber and its partners assessment moves onto a assessment organisation. achievement demonstrates submitted their support for these proposals totally separate and Robert Turnbull, SFEDI Suffolk Chamber’s ongoing during the recent consultation by the independent organisation – in programme leader at Suffolk and hands-on commitment to Department for Transport into this report. this case Suffolk Chamber of Chamber, wrote, developed improving the skills of our The department is due to announce the Commerce. and created all the workforce here in the county successful schemes within the next year, The University of Suffolk documentation and marking and indeed acrossthe with work expected to begin on these approached John Dugmore, schemes for the application. country.” between 2020 and 2025. www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 5 Chamber News PeoplePlus becomes 16th patron of Suffolk Chamber Picture: David Garrad eading employment support and training services company PeoplePlus has joined 15 Lother leading organisations to become the latest patron of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, the voice of business in the county. PeoplePlus supports tens of thousands of citizens each year across the country to get into work, set up their own businesses and to enhance their career progression. Kevin Rodger, PeoplePlus’s director of strategy, says: “PeoplePlus is delighted to become a patron of the chamber and to support the fantastic work it does in the region. Part of the wider Staffline Group, PeoplePlus is a leading national provider of graduate and other employment, apprenticeships, justice, health and wellbeing and adult social care services. We support tens of thousands of people each year to transform their lives, get into work and progress in their careers. “Our patronage is a sign of our continued commitment to, and investment in, the local Sally Bond and Laura Savage, of PeoplePlus, with John Dugmore area and we look forward to working with the chamber, partners and key stakeholders to connections across business, media and political Chamber and the county as a whole, that a continue meeting the needs of employers and leaders throughout the county and beyond and national business of the status of PeoplePlus Suffolk residents.” so influence policy at a national level. should become one of our patrons. Suffolk Chamber’s patron scheme is a John Dugmore, chief executive of Suffolk “We are very much looking forward to strategic partnership between an organisation Chamber, welcomed PeoplePlus’s decision. “It working with the PeoplePlus team to help them and the chamber. It allows patrons to take says a great deal about the countrywide visibility deepen their reach into leading influencers and advantage of Suffolk Chamber’s highly influential and growing importance of both Suffolk policy makers.”

Partnership confirms next leadership programme for international transport companies

The University of Suffolk, Associated British industry to ensure that participants are able to Ports and Suffolk Chamber of Commerce take elements from each session and apply have confirmed the details of the second of them straightaway, improving their their new leadership development performance and that of their organisation.” programmes for those working in International Chief Executive of Suffolk Chamber of Transport. Commerce John Dugmore says: “This course

Picture: James Fletcher The course offers those moving into demonstrates the value of those positions of leadership and management a businesspeople with relevant frontline industry chance to develop their skills in a series of experience and the University working workshops and seminars which focus upon together to create an exceptional programme the acquisition of key management skills and tailored to meet business needs.” their application in logistics, ports management, This programme is part-funded by Suffolk freight handling and associated industries. local authorities, Norfolk County Council and There are four programmes consisting of the Education and Skills Funding Agency six training days spread over roughly half a through the New Anglia Local Skills Deal year. For the second programme these are: Programme. The course is provided by the ● Leadership – May 23 Suffolk Business School at the University of ● Performance Management – June 27 Suffolk, Associated British Ports and Suffolk ● Finance – July 25 Chamber of Commerce. Skills Deal ● Project Management – August 22 programme money has been used to ● Strategy – September 19 subsidise the cost of training. ● External Communications – October 17 Associate Professor of the Suffolk Business For more information about the programme, School Dr Will Thomas says of the design: including how to sign up, please visit www.uos. Will Thomas of University of Suffolk “We’ve worked closely with colleagues in the ac.uk/internationaltransportleaders

6 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Advice Picture: SME Business Coaching Take right steps to be GDPR-compliant Victoria Pooley, managing director of Suffolk Chamber member TDP Marketing, one of the UK’s leading providers of compliant consumer and business data, Tim Boutle of SME Business Coaching shares her thoughts about GDPR. “I don’t have time” Picture: TDP Marketing – Hmmm, really? Suffolk Chamber member Tim Boutle of SME Business Coaching advises on the best use of your time.

here are 24 hours in a day and 60 seconds in a minute. Until we Tmaster time travel I don’t see that changing so let’s get used to it and stop blaming time! How we use time largely determines how successful we are so here are a few ideas on how to take back control:

1. Accept that there is no such thing as too much or too little time.

2. Decide what you want to accomplish then establish your goals.

3. Once they’re in place determine the activities that will be necessary for you to achieve them.

4. Understand that life and business are about choices. You choose how you will spend your time.

5. Prepare your diary each week by creating default blocks to carry out the activities that you’ve identified.

6. Be militant about your schedule and Victoria Pooley of TDP Marketing learn to say ‘No’. ne of the big differences with General compliance’ is a broad term. 7. Review your successes/challenges in Data Protection Regulations (GDPR) Demonstrating compliance shows you take meeting your weekly schedule and adjust Ocompared to the Data Protection Act security seriously and have set up precautions where necessary. (DPA) that it replaces is that there is now a to prevent a breach of data. physical need to demonstrate compliance in An impact assessment is really a quite simple 8. Find an accountability partner to help your company. set of steps that will streamline your business, keep you on track. Lately there’s been so much hyperbole and cut marketing costs, improve sales and might dialogue in the UK’s vertical media about this help save you from a big fine. It’s relatively easy So stop blaming time, take ownership and complex and unambiguous regulation, it’s not to implement and designed to identify all commit to the discipline required to surprising there’s been a wider places where personal data is gathered, achieve your goals. You may be surprised misunderstanding of the new guidance. processed and stored. at the results. The Information Commissioner’s Office TDP Marketing can tailor and prioritise the For more information: reported last week that its SME phone helpline approach to suit your organisation, to get your [email protected] or had “gone into meltdown”. It’s partly the EU’s business on the path to GDPR compliance, 07547 194373 own fault for prevaricating for so long, but it’s quickly and with a refreshing lack of ambiguity. also a complex and fluid subject, ‘GDPR Contact: [email protected] www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 7 Chamber Feature ‘I think that women senior executives in Suffolk’s corporate businesses are trailblazers’ Jules Shorrock, chair of Picture: David Garrad Suffolk Chamber of Commerce in Lowestoft & Waveney, addresses the key issues about the battle for gender equality in the workplace.

Q: Have you encountered any discrimination or harassment during your time in business? A: In one business I worked in, I recall when a prominent businessman who I had been negotiating with made it very clear that he would prefer to liaise with the prettiest partner. Although I was offended, and my partners said that we did not need that business, I chose to put aside his rudeness and really enjoyed spending his company’s inflated revenue for many years before he was replaced by a younger man.

Q: How have attitudes towards women and the opportunities for them changed in the workplace during your career? A: I meet many enterprising women when networking and I think that senior executives in Suffolk’s corporate businesses are trailblazers - to be admired for overcoming at the very least unconscious bias. The 2016 Suffolk Ltd Report found that only 20% of directors in the 100 largest independent companies are female, suggesting that 2010 equal opportunity legislation has not resulted in a diversity of senior managers and that those boards are likely to be failing to understand staff or supply chain needs. The campaign for gender equality has a broad reach, bringing debate into many homes, schools and offices. Jules Shorrock at the Suffolk Chamber of Commerce networking lunch I think that economic necessity will be the catalyst for change. Education is changing and inclusive: educators, Be confident in identifying what your skill set can careers advisors and mentors are changing bring to an organisation and choose an industry Q: What positives do you see in the perceptions, encouraging girls to study technology, you are interested in. world of work for women today? engineering and maths. Explain to a prospective employer that you could A: There is a lot to be positive about: gender pay In the March 2017 Budget, the Chancellor not work for an exclusive organisation and ask reporting will reform imbalances in wages and I announced that T level training courses will be about levels of female representation at senior hope that #MeToo will stimulate better policies offered in 2019, when business will help with level. protecting females from harassment at work and students and apprentices training. These courses If you are satisfied with the answers and are hopefully lengthen abusers’ sentences. are a great opportunity for girls to access good offered a position, then you should commit to Universal T level training provides a great quality skills training where they can embark on doing the best job you can and regularly opportunity and we can help by supporting equally well paid careers. evaluating your progress. educators to shake off the outdated ideas that Look after your own health and always strive to tech is not for girls. More affordable crèches and Q: What advice would you offer young be better. Take on new challenges - succeeding is schools will help employers to retain and continue women entering the workplace? incredibly empowering. to invest in training women, bridging the gap A: Be ambitious and determined to succeed. Be An extended version of this article first appeared between skills and gender pay. prepared to work hard and think big. in the February edition of Business East Monthly.

8 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Feature Businesses doing business the right way Paul Simon, of Suffolk Chamber of Commerce, meets MP for Ipswich Sandy Martin and hears his views on the business community, the business winners of the future, the importance of rail and the right relationship between business and government. Picture: WWW.NK-PHOTOGRAPHY.CO.UK andy Martin, the MP for Suffolk’s county town since June last year, is a man of Srefreshingly clear opinions. No PR finessing for him, just honest replies to straight questions. This includes his views about the role of business in society. “I think business is an absolutely fundamental pillar of society. It’s essential not just that we maximise the effectiveness of business but that we have the right sort of business. “Business needs to be aware that it doesn’t operate in a vacuum. In my opinion, the focus on maximising profit alone should not be the sole purpose of business and certainly that is not feasible now. “Businesspeople need to be aware that there are priorities which they don’t necessarily or fully comprehend because that’s not their business.” Sandy corrects my immediate impression that this is meant as a criticism. “A lot of businesspeople if they want something to happen, often for very, very good reasons assume that everyone shares that view. Sometimes they are quite taken aback if you Sandy Martin, MP for Ipswich, says improving public suggest that might not be a particularly popular transport is key to the success of the town’s businesses position to take.” He believes a good example of this was the of tourism in Suffolk so far has been based on Junction is symptomatic of a complete lack of attitude of Sir Stuart Rose, the former people driving up from London. Now I want to any prioritisation with rail. executive chairman at Marks & Spencer’s who see far more foreign tourists in Suffolk and “These are things that should have been criticised the look of Ipswich town centre, “as what better base than Ipswich, where we’ve done in the 1970s and 50 years on, we’re still he is fundamentally opposed to all markets got the hotels and the road and, more arguing about things that other countries because they don’t involve people going importantly, the rail connections.” elsewhere would have done ages ago.” through the doors of his stores, basically. The need to improve public transport is No surprise then that Sandy is keen for a “I still think there are some businesspeople never far from Sandy’s mind, even when he is greater role for the public sector in supporting in the town who assume that if we close the talking about much-needed improvements to the needs of business. market it would be good for trade. It wouldn’t. the road network. “In terms of access to finance, for medium- Places with markets have better and more “I am an advocate for the northern route sized businesses or those beginning to show frequented shops and getting rid of this market around Ipswich. At the moment there is no signs of promise for those it’s quite difficult to would mean that people will be more likely to rationale route for getting round the town get hold of the level of finance they need. In go to Bury St Edmunds or Colchester.” when the Orwell Bridge is closed. that case a public sector investment model to Aside from the town’s retail sector, what “But you know what I’d rather see is a run alongside the private sector is vital. If does he see as Ipswich’s strengths as a place to reduction in the amount of total road traffic. nothing else, it would force the private sector do business? Getting those containers onto trains would be to raise its game.” “IT and especially software is a massive a big step in the right direction, both for He also recognises the successes of the New growth area for Ipswich - among small enabling business to continue and to improve Anglia Local Enterprise Partnership (LEP) in companies in particular. There is a whole raft human health, since air pollution from vehicles distributing advice and grants to businesses, of sole traders and smaller IT companies is the second biggest avoidable killer after but with a caveat. thriving in Ipswich. I think that’s the way smoking.” “We’ve got some very good people working forward.” He is particularly unimpressed by the failure on the ground in our LEP who understand Sandy also believes that Ipswich’s tourism of successive governments to invest in the how business works in Norfolk and Suffolk. business is set for a boom. county’s rail network. Having said that, I still think the regional “It always is a winner when you’ve got a “We’ve got the country’s biggest container development agency model was a better weak currency. The fact is with Brexit, we’ve port here in Suffolk and it’s nonsensical that model and never understood why the already got a weaker currency than we had the rail line from it is not even second rate its government got rid of it in 2010. two years ago and my expectation is that third rate! “The fact that it was a stupid decision is tourism will grow throughout the country but “As for the proposed improvements to both shown by the fact they had to invent especially in Suffolk where it hasn’t been Haughley and Ely junctions: firstly, any normal something similar a year later. I’m quite sure exploited as much as it could have been in the country would have electrified the route. that the good practice of our LEP could be past. Secondly, the fact that we are still talking about continued on a regional basis and with more “Foreign tourists tend not to drive, yet most realigning Haughley Junction and rebuilding Ely money and players.” www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 9 Chamber Opinion

Terry Baxter speaking at ‘The Glitter Ball’ jointly in aid of Inspire Suffolk and Gee Wizz, hosted by Chris Hollins. Held at The Hangar Kesgrave Hall ‘Brexit will be a challenge, but we’ve got to get on with it’ In the first of a new series, Chamber Voice asks some topical questions of Terry Baxter, chief executive of Inspire Suffolk, chair of Ipswich Central and Suffolk Business Women board member.

Q: With Brexit looming, what is the achievement that are holding them back. progress, now we must press on to ensure that state of the Suffolk business We are also in danger of creating this snowflake Ipswich continues to realise its full potential. community? generation where some young people struggle A: I was a Remainer and actually I’m not with failure. If I look back at my career I had Q: What do you think of the under- ashamed to say that I preferred the status quo. quite a bit of that in my early years. For whatever representation of women on the boards But we’ve got to get on with Brexit. It will reason; career, health, relationship, you’re going of Suffolk companies? generate challenges for this area - look at how to have challenges throughout your life. The issue A: It is important that we ensure our boards are agricultural businesses are already struggling to is how you deal with them and we need to pass representative of the people we are supporting. If get East European workers to come over. that message on. I look at my board here at Inspire, then there are We struggle to get our own people to look at more men than women and we’re looking at that. those jobs; their expectations being that they Q: Ipswich Vision seems to have gone What you can’t do is have a wholesale change, or want to start higher up in getting their first foot quiet. How is it going? I don’t believe that anyway. I think you need to on the job ladder. A: I think we’ve taken a major pause, with have a sense of direction and a statement of Deborah Cadman, Ben Gummer and Mark intent works towards parity. Q: So do you think that young people Pendlington moving on for different reasons, There are some people who say “you’ve got to are afraid of hard work? which hasn’t helped. I wouldn’t say there’s a lack have some positive discrimination”, but I think we A: It’s very difficult to generalise as they are of energy around the majority of the table. Under should intervene more subtly than that. When multifaceted. Some are really on it and get it in the new chair, Terry Hunt, we’re itching to get on you get down to two candidates which share terms of jobs and careers. But a number, for with phase two and there are some really identical strengths and abilities then you have to many reasons, struggle to get there. That links to ambitious plans that we have for our town. have a sense of “ok, are you going to equal these some of the work Inspire Suffolk is involved with Vision has had a pretty good start getting its things up?” and if yes, then make the decision at in terms of mental health, anxiety, academic seven partners together and achieving good that point.

10 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Benefits Jackson sees the benefits of Suffolk Chamber Utilities Picture: Suffolk Chamber Utilities uffolk Chamber member Jackson Civil Engineering was introduced to the Sbenefits of Suffolk Chamber Utilities in 2016. A meeting between Paul Copsey from Auditel, the independent specialists that deliver the Suffolk Chamber Utilities service, and Andy Lusher, Jackson’s services manager, suggested that key savings could be made from switching the latter’s electricity contracts. Auditel produced a tender report which showed the company could achieve significant savings with improved customer service from a different supplier. Auditel then managed the transfer of the supplies, submitting notice to the incumbent supplier, resolved a faulty meter query and ensured that meter readings were passed on at the correct time. Paul and his team then ran a review of Jackson’s water and waste water usage, and identified that modest savings were available without changing supplier. More recently Andy has asked Paul to speak with colleagues in parent company One Group Construction to see if Suffolk Chamber Utilities can be of further service. Andy says: “As members of Suffolk Chamber, we became aware of the assistance Auditel could provide in independently assessing and managing our utility costs. Paul and his team are now delivering regular reports detailing our consumption at each location and savings are presently running at 25%. We are now discussing further projects and I’d recommend having a chat with Paul, not least as he’s helping us recoup more than our Chamber membership fee.” For more information, contact Paul Copsey on 01394 338655 or 07932 164310 Andy Lusher, of Jackson Civil Engineering, with Paul Copsey, from Auditel

Suffolk Chamber Protection: great member feedback Launched in November, Suffolk Suffolk Chamber member ● An advice line offering unlimited members informed about current Chamber Protection is being well Stephen Walker of Motivation access and operated by specialist legal changes used by Suffolk Chamber Matters Limited used the legal advisors to help you with your ● £1 million of excess free cover members – and is getting rave advice line. He says: “I received queries for employment disputes and reviews in the process. some very sensible advice. The ● A comprehensive library of awards, criminal prosecutions Over the initial four months of advice wasn’t to wrap the matter 750+ up-to-date downloadable defence, health & safety the free service - which offers HR, up in a 20-page legally binding HR and health & safety business prosecutions and tax protection health and safety, legal and contract but to do a basic money documents so that you have for peace of mind taxation advice, documentation laundering check. I don’t think I in-depth records to hand For more information about Suffolk and insurance - dozens of have ever met such a ● Free HR and health & safety Chamber Protection, visit www. companies have accessed the commercially sensitive solicitor checks so you can identify areas of suffolkchamber.co.uk/business- service online or via the telephone before!” strength and address weaknesses support/suffolk-chamber- helpline. Chamber Protection comprises: ● Legislation updates to keep our protection/ www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 11 Chamber Member News Have your day

Do you know at the races Picture: www.ashworthphotography.co.uk how happy and uffolk Chamber member the Jockey Club at engaged your SNewmarket Racecourse has launched four great offers employees are? for other chamber members who book an event at the home of horseracing. Best Employers Eastern Region gives you This is a perfect opportunity the opportunity to gain unique data on if you’re entertaining clients, employee engagement levels, to celebrating a work anniversary benchmark your business against others, or just want to indulge in some and to be in with a chance of being first class hospitality. crowned one of the region’s best employers. The four fantastic offers are: ● 20% off The Winning Post How does it work? Hospitality experience at the Organisations begin by asking their QIPCO Guineas Festival on employees to complete the confidential May 5 and May 6. Best Employers Eastern Region survey. ● 15% off The Champions The Jockey Club at Newmarket Racecourse has This free survey measures employee Gallery Restaurant at The offers for Suffolk Chamber members engagement, company culture and bet365 Craven meeting on values, and employers receive a tailored April 17 to April 19 and also Racecourse on July 28, August 29 and Dubai Future report including advice on progressing the spring meeting on May 17 4, August 11 and August 18) Champions Festival on and maintaining a motivating workplace. to May 19. ● 15th off the Champions October 12 and October 13. Participating organisations are ● 20% off selected Summer Gallery Restaurant at The For further information, visit automatically entered for prestigious Saturdays in the Summer Cambridgeshire meeting from george.nolan@thejockeyclub. Best Employers Eastern Region awards, House restaurant at The July September 27 to September co.uk or call 01638 675 300. based on engagement scores from the survey. Platinum and Gold accreditations, endorsed by expert advisors, are also available for organisations which submit further Search for the Stars evidence.

Why should Thinking of corporate volunteering? Suffolk organisations get involved? Chamber member Museum of East Anglian Best Employers Eastern Region provides Life is offering opportunities for teams to give a perfect tool to capture the information something back while learning about their needed to develop an attractive culture place in the region’s history. which attracts and retains talented Its new project, Search for the Stars, aims people. It also showcases the many to create an online catalogue of the museum’s fantastic employers in the region objects which will be available to the public through both awards and accreditations, free of charge. This resource will make the highlighting organisations as great places history and heritage they hold accessible to to work. all. The survey is simple to use, easy for To do this, the museum needs help organisations to customise, and because transferring all their collections records from it is delivered externally, it encourages index cards onto an online system. As more honest answers. It also allows volunteers work through the collections The Museum of East Anglian Life needs help employers to compare themselves with records, the museum will also ask them to cataloguing its collection Picture: MEAL regional competitors. What’s more, it’s highlight any objects they find particularly organisation and its work. free! interesting or intriguing. The museum can host your team or bring a Best Employers Eastern Region was These ‘star’ objects will go forward for session out to you. All sessions will include an founded by Suffolk Chamber member further research. Each member of your team introductory talk and behind the scenes tours and professional recruitment specialists will bring their own unique viewpoint on what of the collections stores are also on offer. Pure, with psychometrics experts eras the star objects might be. Individual volunteering is also available. For ltd, to raise the recruitment profile of By getting involved, your team will be using details, please contact Caitlin Peck on 01449 organisations and the region as a whole. skills they already possess (such as data entry) 618227 or [email protected]. It is delivered in partnership with in a fascinating and unusual new context. The The museum is also running a volunteering Archant and Birketts. collection relates to all areas of life and week at the museum from February 10 to For more information visit business in East Anglia, supporting your February 16 with taster days for volunteering, www.best-employers.co.uk organisation’s sense of place. The museum including family volunteering. Please see www. can select a section of the collection for your eastanglianlife.org.uk/events/volunteer-week/ team to work with which is relevant to your for more details.

14 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Member News Hybrid made simple

Picture: Mike Bowden at Lexus Ipswich

Alan Williams, of Fenn Wright Fenn Wright celebrates 250 years of successful business

Suffolk Chamber member, estate agent and chartered surveyor Fenn Wright is marking a major milestone of 250 years in business. As one of the longest established firms in the county, Fenn Wright started out in the late 1700s, evolving over time into the successful firm we know today. Key to the company’s rich history was John Fenn, who was the fifth in succession from a family of land and estate agents, and was responsible for inviting George T Wright to join in partnership after the First World War. It was at this point that the name Fenn Wright emerged. The company has had a presence on 1 Buttermarket, Ipswich, since the late 1700s and on Colchester’s High Street since 1874. Today, Fenn Wright has eight residential Dedicated to providing a luxury customer experience - Lexus Ipswich. branches across the region and a much bigger commercial arm through the recent According to Suffolk Chamber member Lexus of Lexus hybrid seamlessly combines the power acquisitions of Taylor & Co and Newman Ipswich, ‘hybrid’ is certainly the buzz word of an advanced electric motor with that of a Commercial. amongst drivers at the moment, so it comes as petrol engine. In-car technology selects the best Managing partner Alan Williams says: no surprise that the UK is one of the fastest- power source as and when you need it, leaving “Not many businesses have such an growing markets of low-emission vehicles. But, you to concentrate on the road ahead. With an extraordinary and interesting history. At with the different types of alternative available automatic gearbox - and the fact you’ll visit the Fenn Wright, we recognise that our success and the jargon surrounding the subject, do you petrol station less - you may find a Lexus hybrid is a reflection of our consistent focus on understand how driving a hybrid could benefit simpler to drive than a conventional petrol car. client care and excellent customer service. you and your business? You never have to plug in a Lexus hybrid as “Our reputation for being a business that Dedicated to providing a luxury customer the self-charging electric motor is charged with people can trust is something that we experience, Lexus Ipswich is a well-established regenerative braking. This ensures your car is intend to maintain for the next 250 years! official Lexus centre. The friendly and always ready to go and can effortlessly cover That is why we are expanding both the knowledgeable team are on hand to explain longer distances than plug-in competitors. residential and, more recently, the everything you need to know about Lexus commercial parts of our business.” hybrid and it is actually beautifully simple. To contact Lexus Ipswich, visit www.lexus.co.uk/ Visit www.fennwright.co.uk to find out more. Lexus have been perfecting hybrid Ipswich, call Carl lodge on 01473 715757 or email technology since 2004 and the new generation [email protected] Partnering with the defence community According to Suffolk Chamber of their families, are treated fairly. supportive of veterans and their brings to our business. We were Commerce member East Anglia Servest Ltd, based in Bury St families and has actively delighted to be acknowledged and Reserve Forces and Cadets Edmunds, is also a Suffolk Chamber encouraged flexible working for awarded the ERS Silver Award, and Association there are many ways in member and a global facilities military spouses. are proud to continue our support which supporting defence management service provider that “Servest recognises the value of the Ministry of Defence.” personnel can help organisations operates across a number of that the Armed Forces community If you would like to explore become stronger and more sectors. In 2017 they were brings to the business and there partnering with the Ministry of successful. If you need skilled and awarded a prestigious Silver are already a number of Reserves Defence and find out how your talented people, then look no Employer Recognition Scheme and Cadet instructors within the company can get involved with the further. Award. organisation. Employer Recognition Scheme, The Armed Forces Covenant is Servest has supported the Servest chief executive Rob start your journey by contacting a promise from the nation ensuring Armed Forces community since it Legge says: “Servest have always regional employer engagement that those who serve or have was first established in the UK. recognised the tremendous value director Kristina Carrington at served in the Armed Forces, and The company is hugely that the Armed Forces community [email protected] www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 15 Chamber Events

Suffolk Chamber of Commerce networking lunch Suffolk Chamber of Commerce held its February networking lunch at Wherstead Park, Ipswich, with special guest speaker Doug Field of New Anglia LEP. Photos: David Garrad

LEFT: Colin Makin and Julian Raines RIGHT: Morag McInnes, Brian Taylor and Sarah-Anne Middleton

Darren Ryan, Laura Blyth and Sarah Jay Lee Carvell and Caroline Gould Jack Barrow and Ollie Raymond

Flight Lietenant Gary Martin, Doug Field, Graham Abbey, Flight Lieutenant Gary Martin, John Dugmore, John Dugmore and Squadron Leader Jim Kirkbride Squadron Leader Jim Kirkbride

LEFT: Tanya Ruffles and Nicola White RIGHT: Jamie Ling and Dominic Boullé

16 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Events

Suffolk Chamber of Commerce’s Prestige Dinner Suffolk Chamber of Commerce’s Prestige Dinner at Wherstead Park, Ipswich, which featured special guest business economist Justin Urquhart-Stewart. Photos: David Garrad

Graham Abbey, Chris Richardson-Smith, Hugo Foster, Justin Urquhart-Stewart and John Dugmore

Jeremy and Morag Lea Steve Magnall and Rebecca Bishop John Dugmore with Justin Urquhart-Stewart

Justin Urquhart-Stewart speaking at The Suffolk Chamber of Commerce Prestige Dinner Alicia Garrad and Steve Elsom

Tom Lister and Stuart Gregory Terry Baxter and Karen Jones. Catherine Johnson and Alexandra Nelson www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 17 Chamber Activity Suffolk Business Women In the second in a series which looks at the work of What does Suffolk Business Women do? Suffolk Chamber’s town areas and sectoral groups, Suffolk Business Women is part of the Suffolk we put some key questions to Ginny Idehen, chair Chamber and has 1,500 members across the county. Our role is to raise the profile of business of Suffolk Business Women women in Suffolk, to encourage opportunities, ensure inspirational business women are celebrated, and encourage businesses to be more agile in the way that they work to make the most of all Suffolk talent.

How challenging has its remit been to deliver? Our Suffolk Business Women events have not

Picture: Gregg Brown been difficult to deliver as we’ve always had a very successful events schedule. What has been challenging is explaining and showing that we still have a long way to go. Suffolk is particularly poor in recruiting women into senior roles; in fact, we lag behind by some margin. However, we, along with national and international campaigns are continuously bringing the issue to the forefront.

What have been your greatest successes as chair? I was replacing a chair that had been in the role for many years, so they were big shoes to fill. In that time, the idea of having a mixed board was suggested, and now we’ve made it a reality - all businesses people, men and women, are part of the solution.

How has Suffolk Business Women approached its objectives? We have been actively promoting business women by inviting them to speak at various Chamber events, asking them to do Q&As and promoting examples of where businesses are being agile and appealing to everybody in their working practices.

How does Suffolk Business Women benefit from being part of Suffolk Chamber? Suffolk Chamber is fully supportive of everything we are trying to do. In fact, the Suffolk Chamber’s own board is above national average for female participation. They give us a platform and fully understand how important it is that to ensure the economic growth of Suffolk businesses need to be assessing how they attract talent of both genders and that we do not lose a generation of female graduates from our own University of Suffolk, who could perceive that genuine opportunities are not available here in Suffolk and move away.

What one thing would you like Suffolk Business Women to do differently? Our events are extremely well received and our members tell us they appreciate hearing the stories and journey’s of other business women. In the future, we’d like to host an event with more mentoring and problem solving. Ginny Idehen says Suffolk’s continued economic growth requires attracting talent of both genders

20 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Straight from Norse’s mouth

12 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Patron

Picture: Norse Group

Geoff Tucker, sales director of Suffolk Chamber patron Norse Group, answers a range of questions, including those about the company’s services, procurement policies and CSR activities.

Q: What is your own professional also invest heavily in apprenticeships, and background? operate a very successful graduate scheme which A: Prior to joining Norse Group I was regional is developing talent for the future. director for Rentokil Initial, and sales director for Monthind Ltd. I joined Norse Group as sales Q: How ready for work are school and director ten years ago. college leavers in your experience? What CSR work does Norse get Q: What other roles have you held at involved in within the education sector? Norse? A: Norse has a long history of supporting the A: I’ve remained as sales director throughout my education sector, working closely with schools, Straight from time with the company. Over the last ten years academies and colleges across the UK, and we’ve increased turnover from £50million to providing extensive work experience programmes £300million. and apprenticeships.

Q: What services does Norse Q: How do you ensure that provide and to what range of clients? local businesses have fair Norse’s mouth A: Norse Group provides a wide range of access to your supply chains? services from asset management and FM to A: Norse Group is committed to supporting the frontline environmental services, primarily to local local business community wherever we operate, authorities, social housing and the education ensuring that SMEs have the opportunity to sector, but we have a growing portfolio of private supply goods and services, sponsoring business sector clients. events and getting involved with business organisations such as Suffolk Chamber of Q: What are the main challenges Commerce. in the facilities management sector and how does Norse maintain a Q: Why are you a member of Suffolk competitive advantage? Chamber? A: At the moment the main challenges are rising A: Suffolk Chamber provides an invaluable labour costs and skills shortages (we are involved service to the local business community, and as in highly labour-intensive activities), and public one of the major employers in the county Norse sector budget cuts, which are squeezing profit is delighted to support it. margins. However, we have been able to address this by expanding nationally and diversifying into Q: Why are you a patron of the higher-margin services. Chamber? A: As patrons, we are able to influence the Q: What are the particular challenges Chamber’s policies and provide support to the in running a commercial company that wider business community, as well as benefitting has so many public sector contracts? from the exposure it provides. How do you blend the two different cultures? Q: The Chamber is running a A: Aside from the budgetary difficulties faced by number of campaigns to improve the the public sector, bringing a more commercial county’s infrastructure. What one culture to local authority operations is very improvement would have the most challenging, but we have thirty years’ experience beneficial impact on Norse’s business? in this field, and we have been able to make the A: Infrastructure is becoming increasingly best of both worlds, blending a public service important as we expand within the region and ethos with commercial flair. beyond. The rail and road networks, mobile phone coverage and greater broadband speeds Q: How do you evaluate are the main areas that we’d like to see the success of your company? improved. A: As well as increasing revenues and profits (both of which have consistently grown year on Q: What will Norse look like in ten year), we pride ourselves on creating jobs, and years’ time? providing social value wherever we operate. A: We’re confident that the group will continue to grow, and we anticipate that we will expand Q: What investment do you make into into other parts of the UK where we currently the skills and aptitudes of your staff? don’t have a great presence, particularly the A: Because we are such a large employer, with north of England, Wales and the Midlands. Geoff Tucker of over 10,000 employees, we invest heavily in our We will also be seeking to diversify the range Norse Group workforce, and we are immensely proud of our of services, increasing turnover and profits, staff training, which goes beyond job skills to and creating more jobs in our East Anglian include literacy and numeracy programmes. We heartland.

www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 13 New Suffolk Chamber of Commerce members P ict ures: David Garrad Baker Coaching Ltd 01638 751087 [email protected] www.jenniferbakercoach.co.uk Mrs Jennifer Baker Director Executive leadership coaching, career coaching, team coaching.

Birds i Images 07971 519729 [email protected] birdsiimages.com Mr David Palmer Pilot in charge Professional, affordable, overhead surveying and imaging services. 4k Video, HD Photography, low light and thermal camera capabilities. Members: Shirley de Mouilpied, Gillian Smith, Jade Halil at the Suffolk Chamber of CAA approved for day and night work Commerce December 2017 Networking Lunch held at Ipswich Town Football Club with specialist drone insurance cover. DKR Trade Training and Providing funded and commercial training solutions Birdy Publications Ltd Support Limited to the fenestration industry for occupational 07929 979073 07817 293034 compliance and peace of mind. [email protected] [email protected] www.thefelixstowemagazine.com www.dkrtradetrainingandsupport.com Form the Future CIC Ms Mandeep Birdy Mr David Reader 01223 781296 Owner Owner [email protected] Community magazines in Suffolk. Training and support for businesses involved in www.formthefuture.org.uk international trade. Mrs Michaela Eschbach Breheny Civil Engineering Director Ltd East Anglia Cleaning Building bridges between business and 01449 720282 Services Ltd education to empower young people to [email protected] 01502 567571 fulfil their career potential. www.breheny.co.uk [email protected] Miss Kirsty Warner www.eastangliacleaningservices.co.uk GeeWizz Charity Business Development Associate Mrs Eileen White 07766 011844 Civil engineering construction company, specialising Managing Director [email protected] in highways and bridges, rail, environmental, utilities Commercial and industrial office cleaning. www.geewizzcharity.com and energy. Mrs Gina Long MBE Espa Pumps (UK) Ltd Founder BW Vehicle Consultants 01206 391291 Charity. 01284 544705 [email protected] [email protected] www.espa-pump.co.uk George East (Housewares) www.bwvehicleconsultants.co.uk Mr Sylvan Padmore Ltd Mr Bruce Whiting Finance Manager 01728 833400 Director Pump distributors and booster pumps specialists. [email protected] BW Vehicle Consultants is a professional contract www.george-east.com hire and leasing service for cars and vans. EWI Store Mrs Lucy Weller 0800 1337072 Export Sales Administrator David Woollard HR [email protected] Import and distribution of household wares. Consulting www.ewistore.co.uk 01473 659654 Mr Wayne Richards Healthwatch Suffolk [email protected] Technical Sales Executive 01449 703949 www.dwhr.co.uk Manufacturer/ supplier of external [email protected] Mr David Woollard wall insulation and render materials. www.healthwatchsuffolk.co.uk Owner Mr Andy Yacoub HR advice and guidance in employment law, Fit For Trade Ltd CEO policies and procedures, investigations, 07796 750833 Healthwatch Suffolk listens to your experiences of psychometries and out-placement. [email protected] health and social care services in Suffolk to make www.fitfortrade.co.uk services better. Ms Joanne Taylor Director

18 ChamberVoice 2018 www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 Chamber Membership

Imorex Suffolk Secrets 01394 607740 01502 722717 [email protected] [email protected] www.imorex.co.uk www.suffolk-secrets.co.uk Mr Graeme Connor Mr George Bradley Operations Director General Manager Leading independent logistics business with over Holiday letting, marketing and property 40 years’ of experience, covering all key markets. management agency.

Ipswich Dementia Action TDP Marketing Limited Alliance (IDAA) 08445 611133 01473 685077 [email protected] [email protected] www.tdpmarketing.co.uk www.dementiaaction.org.uk Ms Donna Harvey-Arnell Mr Roger Fern New Business and Client Partnerships Chair of Trustees TDP are a data marketing agency with data Using Alzheimer’s Society ‘Dementia Friends’ consultancy at our heart. We own and broker initiative to enable Ipswich to be a dementia consumer and business files by sector and channel friendly town. Members: Jennie Sannia and Helen – across retail, utilities, home & vehicle insurance, Rumsey at the Suffolk Chamber of we are also GDPR advisors. John Lewis Ipswich Commerce December 2017 Networking 01473 275850 Lunch held at Ipswich Town Football Club The Wild Meat Company [email protected] 01728 687627 www.johnlewis.com PrimeXeon Limited [email protected] Mr Seb Blevings 01223 850730 www.wildmeat.co.uk Branch Manager [email protected] Mr Robert Gooch “At Home” smaller format branch of www.primexeon.com Director department store chain. Co-ownership champion. Mr Dan Smith Speciality meat retailer. Operations Director LD Print Promotions Ltd We provide digital services including website Vero Fabrics Ltd 07988 602333 and app development and digital marketing. 01728 666413 [email protected] [email protected] www.ldprintpromotions.co.uk Skinners Petfoods www.verofabrics.com Mrs Louise Driver 01379 384247 Ms Amanda Purves Director [email protected] Director Providing printed stationery and flyers, branded www.skinnerspetfoods.co.uk Bespoke textile company promotional products and corporate clothing to help Mr Des Smith specialising in woven fabrics. grow your brand. Managing Director Manufacturer of pet food. Vollers UK Limited Lighthouse (Training & 01359 271300 Development) Ltd St James Place Wealth [email protected] 01473 610555 Management www.vollers.com [email protected] 02073 996889 Mrs Chloe Fisher www.lighthouse-group.co.uk [email protected] Office Manager Mr James Salter Miss Claire Rowell Tea and coffee storage warehouse Director Private wealth management. providing third party logistics (3pl) services. Specialists in leadership and management development, change management and Steven Eagell Limited Waverlea Homes Ltd team building. 01473 715757 07956 149905 [email protected] [email protected] Manarat Consulting www.steveneagelllexus.co.uk Mr Jeremy Lea 07789 483141 Mr Carl Lodge Development of residential property. [email protected] Business Development Manager manaratconsulting.com Discover Lexus hybrid and experience amazing at With Wisdom Ltd Mr Joe Booth Lexus Ipswich, Suffolk’s official Lexus retailer. 01379 882286 CEO [email protected] We provide export sales, market consultancy and STP Office Supplies Ltd www.withwisdom.uk cultural understanding of the United Arab Emirates 01440 703303 Mr Oliver Westmancott and the wider Gulf region. [email protected] Owner www.stp.co.uk Helping organisations identify opportunities and Plural Zone Solutions Mr Dave Barber craft digital solutions that improve how they run 01223 606069 Director of Print & Customer Development and how people experience them. [email protected] Print and promotion, office supplies, seating, www.pluralzone.co.uk/ furniture, cleaning and catering supplies and toners. Your Own Place CIC Mr Glen Abergel A one-stop shop. 01603 611910 Managing Director [email protected] We make all sorts of things easier, faster and more Suffolk Director Magazine www.yourownplace.org.uk convenient. From fitness apps to integrating card 07889 815516 Ms Rebecca White payment systems. Because off-the-shelf software [email protected] Director seldom solves all your problems. A bespoke software www.suffolkdirector.com Your Own Place is a social enterprise with solution. Mrs Sue Wilcock the aim of preventing youth homelessness Publisher and Editor through business development. Publishing business of Suffolk director. www.suffolkchamber.co.uk Tel. 01473 680600 ChamberVoice 2018 19