BusinessBulletin JUNE 2015

Tourism focus GETTING A TASTE FOR TOURISM

PAGE | 26 PAGE | 06 PAGE | 12 PAGE | 18 TOURISM COVER FEATURE WORKING TOGETHER RAISING THE WHY DO WE OUR FOCUS WHISKY GALORE TO PROMOTE THE STANDARD FOR THE RUN OUR THIS MONTH REGION HOTEL SECTOR HOME DOWN?

Chamber Viewpoint

All change DURING the run-up to the General The main “opposition” - at national

Election, your Chamber produced a level from Labour and at Scottish level JUNE 2015 manifesto for the North-east, entitled from the SNP - should help us to raise “Strong and Sustainable” which the profile of the following priorities identified that members wanted for business which they support but the next UK government to reduce do not feature in the Conservative unfair costs to business; devolve manifesto. powers appropriately; future-proof UK We will need to work with Labour and energy generation; help address skills

the SNP to win these arguments: CHAMBER VIEWPOINT | shortages; support exporters; invest in our energy future; and improve the • establishing a British Business Bank region’s transport connections. which addresses market failure (Lab, SNP); Now that the dust has settled from the • reform of the points-based system election, we can assess the impact on for immigration for foreign students business by looking at the promises and skilled workers (SNP); in the manifestos published by each • investment to counter-act negative party. HS2 impact on Aberdeen (Lab) We can see where there is a match There are also some issues which are with the Conservative UK government, important to business but invisible in and where there is a match with the party manifestos, so we have a the SNP majority representation of fight on our hands to achieve progress Scottish seats. on these issues. There are also issues which have the • the devolution of immigration support of the other opposition parties powers to the Scottish Parliament so with a seat in – Labour and that we can meet skill shortages; the Liberal Democrats. • beefed-up support for exporters; All four of the parties publicly • commitment to implement the supported the following, so we just findings of the Sir Howard Davies need to make sure that they deliver Airports Commission on additional air these promises: capacity in the south-east of England • the prompt devolution of air To achieve some progress, passenger duty to the Scottish business will want and Parliament; expect the UK Conservative • the delivery of the recommendations Government and the 56 SNP of the Smith Commission; elected representatives to • investment in broadband work together for enterprise. Both the Conservatives and the SNP The Chamber manifesto publicly supported the following, so called for more collaboration we just need to get them to recognise between the UK and that they agree, and work together to Scottish governments deliver: especially on energy supply issues. • a review of business rates; • the introduction of a long-term To achieve some progress investment allowance; for business, your Chamber • CCS at Peterhead; will work with our elected • our city region deal representatives.

Robert Collier Chief Executive 3 We thank our Premier Partners Premier for their continued support of Partners the Chamber.

Want to learn more? Contact Liam Smyth, Membership Director T 01224 343920 E [email protected]

4 JUNE Contents 2015 Focus on Tourism

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

T 01224 343900 E [email protected] www.agcc.co.uk Affiliated Chambers 12 Moray Raising the President standard for the Alec Carstairs hotel sector T 01224 343911 E [email protected]

Bulletin Team

Editor Joanna Fraser T 01224 343926 E [email protected] 06 18 News Features Graeme Smith Media Working together Why do we T 01224 275833 to promote run our home the region down? Advertising Lori Smith T 01224 343905 E [email protected] Regulars PAGE | Design & Production Keiran Smart POLICY UPDATE T 01224 343934 Chamber writes to new Energy Minister 32 E [email protected] BUSINESS LESSONS I'VE LEARNED Craig Stevenson of Bon Accord & St Nicholas 36

HOT TOPIC Which is your favourite restaurant? 38

TRAINING & EVENTS CALENDAR Dates for your diary 42 ON THE MOVE 44 Cover image Who is going places in the region? Whisky drinkers are driving growth in visitor numbers See feature on page 26

5 6 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 National TrustNational Scotland General manager, Simon Ovenden all oilbe industry?'” WeIt's it might amazing. thought say like was 'We it this. know didn't they visitors… to we speak “When Castle Fraser are pullingtogether. this large numberofdifferent groups andhow effectivelywe “I have wondered how joined-up ourtourism offer iswith encountered before. which was certainly far more thanIhadanticipated orhad the numberofindividualtourism groups across theshire "What didsurpriseme whenIfirst came to thisjob was wanting to behere. in Scotland purely through individualchoice andlove of Scots are here through circumstances oftheirbirth,Iam "I have apersonal passion for thiscountry andwhilst native always amazed me. person butthere isalsotheheritage, thehistory andithas more years thanIcanremember," hesaid."Iamanoutdoors "I have loved Scotland andeverything ithasonoffer for border andseven monthsagotook over hispresent post. Two years agohemadethepermanent move northofthe year hetravelled to Scotland onholiday. Dover and18properties inKent, howevera five orsixtimes included beingproperty managerfor theWhite Cliffsof to work for theNational Trust inEnglandwhere hisroles After many years inthecorporate business world, hewent something Ireally wanted to do". forsaken alucrative jobinthesouth-east ofEnglandto "do Simon issomethingofawalking advert for Scotland having everyone involved to promote thearea. the exception ofMarLodge, andhebelieves itisvitalfor Simon Ovenden isgeneral managerfor , with well aslocally, to theirnineproperties inthearea. area's tourism, attracting peoplefrom allover theworld, as The National Trust for Scotland plays asignificant role inthe them to make theNorth-east adestination. meet, andthecityshire theopportunityto encourage which gave airlines,airportsandtour operators achance to attending theRoutes Europe 2015 conference inAberdeen The event provided abreak from business for those and Scotland. demonstrate allthat isgoodabouttheNorth-east dinner for 1,100 guests from allover theworld to tower housenearInverurie, recently hosted a CASTLE Fraser, theimposing16thcentury baronial regionthe to promote Working together Feature Tourism meetings across the shire. “This issomething whichisbeingdiscussed at various  properties in this area this in properties nine has Scotland Trust for National Estate & Fraser, Garden Castle Garden Lodge & Mar Estate Lodge Mar Estate & Garden Hall, Leith Castle Estate & Garden Castle, Drum Estate & Garden Castle, Crathes Craigievar Castle Drum Castle “The dinner at “The dinnerat Castle Fraser … has Castle Fraser …has together to deliver General manager, something huge” demonstration Simon Ovenden been a fantastic been afantastic organisations can pull organisations canpull of how different National Trust Scotland

7 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 8 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 “I have loved years than I can years thanIcan Scotland and Scotland and Feature Tourism Simon Ovenden remember” everything ithas on offer for more Craigievar Castle thought itmightbealloilindustry.' know itwas like this.It'samazing.We been to Aberdeenshire they say: 'We didn't properties whoperhapshaven't previously live andwhenwe speakto visitors at our "It isthemost amazing place to work and more to itthanthat. as theoilcapitalofEurope butthere isalot "Aberdeen cityandshire hasitsreputation Chamber ofCommerce. Aberdeenshire andAberdeen &Grampian Partnership, VisitAberdeen and Aberdeenshire CityandShire Tourism management organisation), the the Royal DeesideDMO(destination "We are working withorganisations like to deliver somethinghuge. how different organisations canpull together which hasbeenafantastic demonstration of stakeholders for thedinnerat Castle Fraser "We were oneofthemajorsponsorsand on. coming into thearea whichwe cancapitalise very goodinternational flight connections “There isgreat potential andwe have some a tourism destination. maximise thepotential ofAberdeenshire as “It isvitallyimportantifwe are going up thinkingthat sitsbehindthat. own individualvalue, what we needisjoined- together. While allthesegroups have their  them all". the truththan"Ifyou've see oneyou've seen unique andnothingcould befurtherfrom He saidthat allnineTrust properties are in itsown right." must work together to sellitasadestination "That istheperception somehave andwe "I thinkitimportantthat we allwork “We are alsoseeinganincreasing number across thecityandshire. choice for many ofthemajorcompanies an enviable reputation asbeingvenues of and spectacularlocations we have gained through ourconsistent highstandards many corporate functionsandevents and "Our properties are primarylocations for Europe 2015 dinner. right upto majorevents suchastheRoutes can cater for everything from smallfunctions popular hospitalityvenues for weddings and As well asvisitor attractions they are very something for everyone." of properties across the shire andwe offer “We have afantastic anddiverse selection to theenjoyment ofthelocalpopulation. The Trust canbringmuchto tourism butalso destination organisations across theshire. "We really want to work withthe other castle. from furtherafieldwho want to stay at the demanded by corporate partiescoming facilities andfurnishingswhichmightbe "It isofthehighest qualityinterms of to avery highstandard. Fyvie Castle to upgrade theaccommodation significant investment inPreston Tower at He saidoneexample ofthat was a appropriate." in thoseareas whenandwhere itis changes. We are notafraid ofinvesting be ableto react quicklyandrespond to "The market isquite fluidand we need to function whichisalittlebitdifferent. UK from companies whichwant to have a of inquiriesfrom London andacross the interested in getting involved.” getting in interested is to who anyone to we’d speak and have delighted “We afewbe mind sites in gained. already has campaign the that momentum good the to continue we as look seeds some even plant or wash sweep, to help to afew give hours up ofvolunteers agroup for We’re area. looking the within ofbusinesses support and help the need we really to this, but do zone BID the of parts other across out “We’d like now to ‘Adopt scheme rollthe Area’ an zone. BID ofthe aesthetics the improve help can contributions ofvoluntary how example afantastic is team The area. make specific to a can additions little adifference big how shown has really it and campaign Team the for Aberdeen milestone important an initiative was ‘Adopt Area’ an “The said: Inspired, ofAberdeen manager project Joss, Angela finalised. been has alocation once project “Adopt to next Area” the an support its committed also has It problem. ongoing this combat to effort an in area ofthe up tidy another out by carrying further ofTeam Aberdeen support its reinforced has Skipton litter.from team and The ends cigarette by discarded to blighted be continued has location However the Aberdeen City Council. from up tidy and clean with adeep November, along in installed containers of anumber had appearance, unsightly its for criticised been often site, The Street. Bridge and Street College city’s ofthe corner the on area an up to spruce Society Building (ACCCC) Skipton and Council Community Centre City Aberdeen from ofvolunteers help the enlisted year,Late campaign last the appeal. aesthetic its to enhance together to join stakeholders other and businesses visitors, residents, by encouraging city ofthe heart the in pride to fostering committed is campaign Team the Aberdeen Inspired, by Aberdeen Spearheaded fruition. to come project Area” first an ofits “Adopt products the seen has Aberdeen in pride ofcivic asense atinstilling aimed INITIATIVE AN Area an to Adopt urged Aberdeen News Member Aberdeen in December 2012. in franchise Honda overtook the &Dick Macrae since on focusing been has team the which loyalty customer increasing and customers retaining on award based was The 2014”. Products Retention Car New in Dealer “Topfor Performing award the up picked Wilkie Ross manager sales region, Northern UK’s Honda in dealers of44 Out throughout 2014. to customers commitment its for recently rewarded been has Aberdeen in Honda &Dick atMacrae team THE &Dick Macrae Customer award for before been offered in the region. in the offered been before never it says has which expertise technical and product both providing Middle-East with ProServ Africa North and Middle-East the spanning apartnership established Ltd also has (UK) Group JCE basis. international an on and applications onshore and offshore of both support in services installation ofon-board provision the as well as materials, and components equipment, ofelectrical supply the workforce, engineering electrical skilled ofits use the including services support electrical specialised all provide will JCE vendor, Turner preferred As EPS’s with Turner EPS. agreement framework a strategic Ltd formed has (UK) Group JCE JCE partnerships and and Society's Building Skipton Inspired's Aberdeen partnership and collaborations." research and of teaching terms in both opportunities many exciting us offers this and departments science top information world’s the join we now that means iSchool an as “Designation said: Management, ofInformation Department the of Head Reid, Peter Professor group. this have joined to “delighted” is Management of Information Department Aberdeen Business School’s RGU’s and departments Science of Information group leading world’s the is organisation iSchool The iSchool. an as approved been has Management of Information Department ROBERT Gordon University’s designation iSchool Julia Patterson Julia Page 12 HOTEL SECTOR STANDARD FOR THE RAISING THE Angela Joss Angela Burn with with

9 NEWS | JUNE 2015 10 NEWS | JUNE 2015 News Member organisation well for thelast sixyears. of Commerce, having served the of Aberdeen &Grampian Chamber retire inMarch 2016 aschiefexecutive Bob Collier has indicated hisdesire to replace theirreplaceable. as we beginthetaskoftryingto around theboard at theChamber THERE isatingeofsadness Chamberfor the for new leader Search begins The board hasappointed a it is a big pair of shoes to fill, it isabigpairofshoesto fill, but he has agreed a long and but hehasagreed alongand business community means business community means recruitment panelchaired by flexible notice period to give displays intheNorth-east and high public profile he and highpublicprofile he myself to findhissuccessor, us the time to find the ideal us thetimeto findthe ideal candidate. candidate. but itisbusiness asusual The knowledge, expertise for Bobandthe team at the Chamber and we all look Chamber andwe alllook team at theChamber. forward to your continued support in the coming support inthecoming months. and the performance of the and theperformance ofthe We are proud ofour to the leadership of Bob to theleadershipofBob achievements over the this isinalarge partdown title we won in2014, and the ChamberofYear past few years, including Arts &Business Scotland, Aberdeen as well asamemberoftheboards of the Scottish ChambersofCommerce, member oftheBoard andCouncil of In hisrole aschiefexecutive, Bobisa us inthissearch. Brown hasbeenappointed to support Executive search company FWBPark always welcome. Your ideasfor potential candidates are the UK. leader ofthenumberoneChamberin aim for aseamless transition to thenext We know that you willsupportusaswe impossible. but withoutchange, progress is It isatimeofchangeat theChamber the business community inthefuture. supportive ornon-executive capacityin we may continue to seehiminsome time chiefexecutive, Iamsure that Although heintends to retire asafull and wishhimwell for thefuture. dedicated service to theorganisation, the board andmembersfor hisyears of I would like to thankBobonbehalf of the Knowledge Transfer Partnership. Centre Regeneration, Energetica and on thesteering groups for theCity Taskforce, andrepresents theChamber He isalsoamemberoftheEnergy Jobs Trust. Inspired andAberdeen CityHeritage President Alec Carstairs

Nautronix to continue to develop and expand its survey services division. services survey its expand and to develop to continue Nautronix allow will contract this Securing people. 50 approximately employs now division the and equipment and people in investment asignificant been has There vessels. Installer Ocean all on world-wide to projects services its provided has and 2012 since division services survey its growing been has Nautronix years. three next the for Installer to Ocean services to survey provide to continue extension contract pound multimillion a awarded been has industry, to offshore the technology positioning and communication through-water provides which NAUTRONIX, Nautronix survey extension — clients.” byfor our voted it is as to team the much so award means this “Winning said: department, Sports and ofAVC Media manager Media’s general Keith Robertson, category. this in clients by its recommended to formally be AVC company and Scottish only was satisfaction by client judged and assessed award scheme creative industry only the is award RAR The of categories. avariety in service and delivery performance, company measure they which in ratings, client on based were selected Winners Awards 2015. (RAR) Register Agency Recommended atthe category Production” “TV/Video/Audio AVC the won has Media Roaring success for AVC at RAR News Member media and sports department sports and media ofAVC Media's manager General Keith Robertson, Page 18 PROMOTING OURREGION to runourhomedown” bordering onanobsession “We have atendency 11 NEWS | JUNE 2015 12 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 “I think the four-star “I thinkthefour-star the three-star the three-star Chief executive and subsumed into the subsumed into the Feature Tourism and particularly and particularly budget sector” category have been executive chairman Donald Macdonald the UK, Spain and Portugal. and Spain UK, the throughout resorts 10 and UK the across hotels 45 operating group, hotel owned privately- largest UK's the now is group The Resorts. Hotels and now is what to Macdonald launch of Scotland North-east hotels the in Donald Macdonald bought two since of acentury IT aquarter IS hotel sector the for standard Raising the neither of which remains in the group. group. the in remains of which neither Peterhead, in Waterside the and Aberdeen in Ardoe hotels the twowere first His 1990. in investors and with colleagues Hotels Macdonald to form left but Group Stakis the of director managing rose toHe become started. it all where east North- in the investment significant includes that and sector budget the and hotels his between water" blue to "clear put aims He direction. adifferent it in taking is he and executive chairman executive and chief as company ofthe helm atthe back been has entrepreneurs, successful most ofScotland's one and crofter of aHarris son the Macdonald, year, last Donald Since stepped into the breach. into the stepped executive last year Donald Macdonald chief as resigned Guile David When ownership. into private back hotels the took which deal a£590million in buyout management a led he sevenyears and 1996 in market stock on the floated was company The did." they what on up to check needed never –you beds doing reasonably ordinary jobs like making even those people, from ofownership sense inbuilt an get you find still and found “We to recruit. we managed people quality better the we went, north further days the my even was in young thing amazing the and people fantastic wereabsolutely "They career. his all in experienced has he staff best the had having as Waterside the recalls fondly He said. a year,"he £2.5million of aprofit making it was did we when and offer a fantastic such we had year. it Webecause to sell had a £100,000 of aprofit making was rooms 19 it had Ardoe the we bought “When category of four star) and although staff are encouraged encouraged are staff although star) and offour category possible highest (the standard red to four-star raised being are House Pittodrie the and Aberdeen in Hall Norwood The facilities. staff in also but properties their in only not heavily investing are They hard." pretty on we working are something is that and with quality have you it up rate, to back higher the to charge "However wage. onto aliving people ofour all get to Iwant that months several last the for company the in place in been has which policy Ihave ways aclear and other have you in to group, skimp peer American and European to your relation in enough charging not are you “When circle. avicious becomes this and industry ofa low-paid category into the fallen it has because handicapped is industry our and important very really is to ajob do people young training think "I Islands. and Highlands of the University with the conjunction in run is which Aviemore in academy own training its has now group the that, To address help customers." to the get know they and faces same the see you go, you time each so time the all people same the having preferably and important is ahotel in stay you when you after looking people nice having "Secondly, said. he Ipreach," what is that and of'clean' instead ‘sparkling' word the always used who with achap worked once "I cleanliness, friendliness and good food. - factors to three are this essential and hotel, agood makes still ago years 50 hotel agood made what that believes He objectives." of set a different quite with challenges adifferent quite are hotel service a full budget sector because running a budget hotel and running the and ourselves water between blue clear some put and business ofthe quality the raise standards, to want raise "I sector. budget into the subsumed have been category three-star the particularly and four-star the Ithink and so or years 10 last the in blossomed really has industry of the section hotel budget the that is this for reason ofthe "Part America. and ofEurope to rest the relation in drastically behind fallen economy,has UK overall by the much very affected really aren't and to themselves economies are which Aberdeen and London outside scene, hotel UK the believe "I said. he me," it around run they reins, the up Ihave picked while and people strong good by very surrounded Iam "However added to Pittodrie House. to Pittodrie added have been facilities private with rooms staff state-of-the-art 19 it, live within and community local ofthe part to become “Every day we introduce somethingnew that isgoingto raise ourstandards ”

VISITOR NUMBERS DRIVE GROWTH IN WHISKY DRINKERS Page 26 running a hotel a “ objectives of set a quite with challenges different are quite a hotel service Running Running budget budget different different and and full full ”

13 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 14 NEWS | JUNE 2015 News Member Steven Gray Gray Steven Mike Sibson ROVOP's Mark Vorenkamp Vorenkamp Mark investor director and and director investor CEO chairman, chairman, to their clients throughout the North-east. the throughout clients to their them introduce and sessions training interview host search, job initial their during interns to coach experience recruitment their use will Scott Teams Eden from futures. toon have self-sustaining to go need they experience career and skills the gain people young supporting Council; Aberdeenshire and Council City Aberdeen Inspire, College, Scotland East with North partnership in delivered is year, project the second its in Now employment. for them prepare to help condition, spectrum autistic an or disability learning have who a 25, and 16 between aged people young for programme one-year a is SEARCH Project area. Aberdeenshire and Aberdeen the in employment seeking currently needs with additional people young 1,700 currently are There ofAberdeen. byUniversity the hosted is which initiative, SEARCH Project of the partner latest the as announced been has Scott Eden business RECRUITMENT Eden Scott joinsProject SEARCH — 2017. until run will contract year. initial every The languages 20 across countries over in 30 people 450,000 than more it train sees which industry gas and oil global the in to expertise its due contract the for selected was company The secured. has Atlas Knowledge Aberdeen-headquartered that company pipeline with a contract first the is This legislation. and regulations with in-country line in delivered be will Each driving. safe and awareness fall and slip trip, handling, manual safety, fire include will courses, customised fully and ofexisting amix training, The Corridor. Gas Southern complex the through Italy and Albania Greece, across gas natural to bring ofapipeline construction planned the on working personnel onshore 300 to almost delivered being involve will courses 11 deal The AG (TAP) project. Pipeline Adriatic profile high the Trans on engaged workers for training safety to deliver contract the secured has Atlas Knowledge leader technology learning INTERNATIONAL Atlas TAPs into safety training — partner. anew as with BGF years coming over the expansion further for business the positioned has and over period that targets growth ambitious meet ROVOP to successfully enabled funding SLF The repaid. be now will which Partners, by Capital Maven managed (SLF), Fund Loan Scottish the from £5million ROVOP secured 2012, In dozen a countries. than more in projects high-profile delivering of record atrack and companies and telecommunications wind offshore gas, and oil includes portfolio client Its ROV field. the in player into aleading company the have developed 130 of staff and team management established ROVOP’s crane. overhead 40ft internal and tank test ROV underwater ROVOP full Academy, the 18,500ft three-storey, new The Texas. Houston, in headquarters Hemisphere Western with a expansion international recent its following growth continued ROVOP’s to fuel used be will (BGF), Fund Growth Business the from investment, The Tourism. and Energy Business, for Minister Scottish Ewing, Fergus from avisit and investment ofnew of£10million announcement the with headquarters its£4.2million of opening official the ROVOP marked provider services Vehicle (ROV) Operated Remotely subsea INDEPENDENT £10million investment fundsROVOP growth 2 building in Aberdeen includes its training facility facility training its includes Aberdeen in building

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17 NEWS | JUNE 2015 Opinion Steve Harris

JUNE 2015 Promoting our

OPINION | | OPINION region for economic prosperity by Steve Harris, Chief executive, VisitAberdeen

ABERDEEN and We have 4,000 hotel rooms, two five- Aberdeenshire are, or should star hotels, with another on the way, and another 14 hotels in the pipeline be, a leading UK tourism that we are aware of. destination. York does have York Minster, which I say ‘are’ because the product is tough to match, a boat trip, five is there and ‘should be’ museums, Jorvic, a dungeon and because the visitors aren’t. a tower. It has a castle, five notable buildings and three National Trust We have a tendency bordering on an properties. obsession to run our home down. However, Aberdeen and People believe and proselytise this Aberdeenshire have three cathedrals, thinking when actually we have so 14 castles, five museums, nine Scottish much to be proud of. National Trust properties, gardens and We have 500,000 potential buildings of interest, architectural and ambassadors here but few are active. otherwise, , Footdee, a working harbour, harbour cruises, two This is not to be all happy clappy about beautiful rivers, seals, dolphins and our city centre, we all know there are puffins, 50 golf courses, 17 distilleries things that need to be improved and, and the whisky trail, Royal Deeside and indeed, they are being improved. Balmoral. Having limited vision and just looking This is not to make fun of York. York is at UK cities and towns of similar a lovely city and it does a number of size, Crawley, Swansea, Barnsley, things better than us. Mansfield, Northampton, Rochdale, Swindon, Luton, In 2013, travel and tourism contributed Warrington and York are our £114billion to the UK’s GDP. ‘competitors’. In terms of its direct GDP, travel and Of those, only York could be tourism is 87% the size of the banking any sort of rival. It’s a city sector in the United Kingdom. with history and attractions The industry supports 2.5million and is surrounded by jobs and represents 8% of the UK’s picturesque countryside. total employment figure. We have This quick comparison the product and we have a growing might portray a similar market opportunity. offering ... but it isn’t even close. VisitAberdeen is your local destination marketing organisation (DMO). We have an airport with Established in 2012 we are supported connections to almost by Aberdeen City Council and 50 destinations and Aberdeen Inspired, and have a small connections to every key income stream along with project European hub. funding, but we remain small.

18 Attracting the traditional leisure tourist, and in 2013 and, incredibly, added another JUNE 2015 indeed business conferences, to the city in 8% in 2014, which equates to 450,000 recent times hasn’t been easy. passengers the last two years.

With constrained hotel capacity, and the Midweek demand for hotels in the first two | OPINION consequent high pricing in midweek, the months of the year has dropped as oil and city hasn’t been competitive. gas struggles (-5.5%). That pointed us to our obvious product However, against that trend, the focus of - weekend Breaks. We have four target VisitAberdeen’s activity, the weekend, has 116million markets: our near neighbours, the Northern continued to show positive growth (+8.8%). Chinese travelled Arc, Scandinavia down through Germany That increase has been worth about and the Netherlands, and any city with a outside China in £390,000 of revenue to the hotels alone. If cheap flight. each extra visitor spent just £50 a day on 2014 And lastly, what our business plan calls food, drink, shopping and entertainment, “any other medium-term opportunity that that would be another £1.36million a year. presents itself”. And for Norwegian visitors you can put a nought on the end of that £50. For us that currently means China, the potential is huge. A comparison with the US This growth is on top of the 5.7% achieved gives some perspective. in 2013 and 2.1% last year. If this year’s rate of growth remains at current levels, that would Thirty per cent of Americans have a mean 17.4% growth in weekends over the passport but just 5% have crossed an ocean three years. - so our potential market is just 16million. Yet in 2012, 83million Chinese travelled As a region, we need to decide whether we outside of China and by 2014 that number want to capitalise on this. The “Oil Capital of had already risen to 116million. It is predicted Europe” image is never going to cut it with that 500million Chinese people will travel tourists, nor anyone you want to live here. abroad by 2030. 96% Aberdeen city and shire has a profile and of travellers start Forty thousand people view perception problem with tourists and that isn’t going to be corrected without their research on our site at least once every substantial effort. month - that’s over 1,000 the internet The challenge is to compete with other people researching visitor cities and to find a method of funding that information every day. allows that to happen. And so, what has VisitAberdeen achieved Across Europe and North America, tourism so far? promotion is funded by either a levy on accommodation or by the public sector. Primarily, we have focused our efforts on digital marketing as 96% of travellers start Currently in Scotland, a “bed tax” is ruled their research on the internet. out and the public sector’s ability to fund tourism promotion is being reduced. We are currently 5th most engaged with on social media out of all UK cities. We have a year to commit to a way forward. Our is the premier source of information It would be a crying shame if, having got for visitors and potential visitors. Forty an effective DMO off the ground, it was left thousand people view our site at least once hamstrung by under-resourcing. every month - that’s over 1,000 people We have a magnificent and improving +8.8% researching visitor information every day. product. We have a vast opportunity and it hotel occupancy In terms of physical evidence, Aberdeen is vital that we take it. increase during International Airport had a record year weekends worth about £390,000

This article is taken from a speech Steve gave to the SCDI earlier this year. 19 20 NEWS | JUNE 2015 Lee Reborse Burr Neil News Member key account manager, Falck Safety Services Safety Falck manager, key account IADC North Sea Chapter, Noble Drilling Chapter, Noble Sea North IADC

and

encouraging staff to undertake IOSH Working Safely or or Safely IOSH Working undertake to staff encouraging as well as meetings, committee safety and drills response practices included attending HSE inspections, emergency These workplace. the in of safety to ownership take staff all Falck encourages plans development personal staff’s UK into all practices safety incorporating By participation. staff through been has performance safety its ofimproving method primary firm’s training survival offshore the year past the Over risk. reduce that innovations operational and technical and initiatives management safety projects, environmental performance, safety to improve schemes including safety in achievements and initiatives new member’s associate an award recognises The year. past over the achievements safety ofits Award recognition in Safety Annual Chapter Sea Contractors) North ofDrilling Association (International IADC with the presented been has FALCK Services Safety Safety award for Falck to the offshore subsea specialist. specialist. subsea to offshore the training mechanical subsea and services decontamination and environmental equipment, hydraulic and tensioning bolt subsea to Stork allow will deliver options, extension one-year with two comes which agreement, The Offshore. by Bibby sectors Norwegian and UKCS the on focusing Stork. at operatives 80 than to more to standards OPITO courses verifier and assessor deliver will company North-east The requirements. to match individual services tailored providing worldwide, clients gas and ofoil with anumber partnership in works and Management and Leadership of Institute The and &Guilds OPITO, City SQA, for centre training approved an is Assurance Competence ITB sectors. power and chemical gas, and oil the on focused services, integrity asset ofknowledge-based provider a global to Stork, courses oftraining arange to deliver contract aone-year awarded been has specialist A COMPETENCY Stork bringsITBcontract — clients.” and delegates employees, our all for culture safety to us create astrong, enables this aware, environmentally and safety is staff our all by ensuring and we do, of everything core atthe is “Safety organization. the throughout flows safety regarding information ensuring them, between communication increased we also but employees, all for practices safety we introduce did only “Not said: Leyden, Colin UK, Services ofFalck Safety director Managing courses. Safely Managing Stork has been awarded a three year frame agreement agreement frame year athree awarded been has Stork Monitor Export FOOD DRINK & SERVICES OILFIELD this month this Top countries three sectors Popular $10m $20m $30m $40m $50m $60m $70m $80m $665.1m 2014 Total value of exports 2015 2014 2013 2012 2011 2010 our eNews our to signup or www.agcc.co.uk see data more For March. cover up of figures end 2015 The to the country. across the businesses exporting for does Grampian Chamber of Commerce and the work it & team at Aberdeen documentation export the Our monthly monitor tracks the progress of 0 Invoice value of of value Invoice exports year this $49.7m documents certified documents of Number Oct 16,304 15,976 17,272 13,933 12,865 $63.1m Nov 5,000 3,708 3,708 No. of documents of No. $71.2m (year to date) (year Dec 10,000 $145.8m 2015 Year to date $42.8m Jan $47m 15,000 Feb Mar $56m 20,000 21 NEWS | JUNE 2015 Opinion Peter Shields

Change on the horizon JUNE 2015 for 'three amigos' of

OPINION | | OPINION ISO standards

I KNOW this might sound like approach to enable the organisation an oxymoron, but the world to optimise its performance through its processes, rather than standalone of ISO standards for QHSE is procedures with the traditional mind- about to get interesting. You numbing format of purpose, scope, may ask: really? responsibilities etc For most of my working life I've 3. Companies now need to witnessed the mental shutters come recognise the issues that affect the down at the mere mention of words organisation’s ability to achieve the like ISO, quality and safety (though intended outcomes, together with recently less so for the environment, understanding the expectations of as we're all becoming more aware interested parties (such as legislative of recycling and the benefit to our bodies, clients and the general public) planet). 4. Top management are able Having been a QA engineer since 1980 to demonstrate leadership and Peter Shields, and auditor for more than 20 years, commitment, taking into account the Founded and chief I'll generalise here and say that the effectiveness of QHSE executive of BusinessPort typical workforce’s attitude towards 5. Introduction of a risk-based ISO standard compliance falls into the approach that requires organisations same category as filling in tax returns to determine and address risks or visiting the dentist; they'll do it, but through hazard identification, risk don’t have to actually like it. evaluation and controls that are And if they don’t understand what this required to be embedded throughout ISO stuff is all about then I don’t blame all aspects of the management system them, as I’ve seen some dreadfully In general, if the draft ISO standards complex management systems in my for QHSE remain true to their intention, time. Considering the corporate boast they will require consistently high of “our people are our most important levels of management commitment, asset”, management system content greater understanding of risk and its often fails to progress far beyond mitigation, together with providing the practices of the 1980s, when increased levels of transparency volumes of procedures were accessed through a process-based approach. from long lists of titles. “Ideal for SharePoint”, the IT people will tell you. For SMEs, the ISO changes should not prove to be overly difficult to Now, however, things might be about implement; however, it could be a to get – relatively speaking – exciting. different story for large organisations The forthcoming changes to “the with global offices and remote work three amigos”, namely ISO 9001, ISO sites that have their own independent 14001 and OHSAS 18001 (about to QHSE management systems. become ISO 45001) are significant This fragmented approach may hinder and will affect every company which is collaboration and restrict information registered to each respective standard. sharing as well as being considerably So what are the major common more expensive to maintain. changes in the standards? The benefits of a more integrated 1. All three standards are now aligned ISO model will reduce inefficiencies and have exactly the same structure such as duplication, create greater thus making it much easier for an awareness of inherent risk, and ensure integrated QHSE management system these standards are embedded into to be developed and maintained everyday operations. 2. The revised standards define the adoption of a process-based 22 repair andtesting ofpipelinesystems. and theMiddleEast, specialisingintheisolation, intervention, The STATS Group employs 280staff intheUK,Canada,USA America. providing aspringboard to mobilisefor projects inSouth onshore andoffshore pipelinesector, with Houston also STATS believes there are project opportunitiesintheUS operations. as globalprojects managerto general managerfor USA while Scott McNaehasbeenelevated from hisprevious role has beenpromoted to vice president for theAmericas, Stephen Rawlinson, previously general managerinCanada, headcount over thenext year. workshop facility inBrittmoore andexpects to addto itsUS and intervention tools, hasopeneda25,000 sqftoffice and manufactures andinstalls arange ofhi-tech pipelineisolation The Aberdeenshire-based group, whichdesigns, markets. its services intheUSandSouthAmericanoilgas $2million (£1.3million)innew facilities inHouston to expand PIPELINE engineeringspecialist, STATS Group, hasinvested US expansion for STATS — increased activityintheregions. the company’s new Indianpremises whichwillsupportthe international growth for Frontier, following thelaunchof The announcement hascome at atimeofsignificant and theMiddleEast duringthefirst quarter of2015. seven majoroperators andservice companies across Asia resourcing, hasannounced significant contract winsfrom FRONTIER International, specialist ininternational oilandgas Global growth for Frontier — in amixture ofthree andthree to five-year projects. The company haswon thecontracts inMalaysia andAngola Products hassecured work worth $19million. CASING accessory andcompletion tool company Downhole New projects for Downhole News Member Stats Group Vice president Americas Stephen Rawlinson,

23 NEWS | JUNE 2015 Business Bites

JUNE 2015 Investment in skills is vital for OPINION | | OPINION future of tourism by Brian Wilson

WHATEVER happens to the retreat of royalty and as an area North Sea industry in the of outstanding natural beauty and tranquility – all true and much more months and years ahead, the besides. recent price shock has served one useful purpose – to act But there is now more need than ever for the region to maximise the value of as a reminder that no city or these assets. region can afford to leave too many eggs in one basket. The hospitality industry is too often based on low wage levels, and in the Of course, economic diversification North-east it has had to compete in in Aberdeen and the North-east has Scotland’s tightest labour market – oil been ritually spoken of for years – and gas again! while, at the same time, dependence on oil and gas was continuing to grow. That makes it difficult to recruit and retain staff so the result, unless there It’s a problem of success. is a conscious effort to resist it, tends to be a high turnover and insufficient Any region would give its right arm attention to raising skill levels. for an industry which is doing well, employs lots of people and pays good Yet in any longer term view, this is a wages. crucial ingredient for any successful tourism region. But while the North Sea has guaranteed Aberdeen’s hotel At its best, Scottish tourism is superb occupancy rates for decades, it has and there are plenty of North-east not necessarily been so good for the examples of that. tourism industry. But it is still the ultimate curate’s egg It is a business city and a very – great in parts but sadly lacking in successful one. But to some extent, others. this has been at the expense of its image and attractiveness as a tourism The only way to achieve a reasonable destination. degree of consistency is through Brian Wilson looks investment and training. That helps to explain why the North- at the issues facing east under-performs as a tourism Employment in the tourism sector North-east business. region within Scotland, particularly in should not be sold as a short-term, A journalist and attracting visitors from the rest of the low-pay option. former Labour MP, he UK. Where the proper training structure held five ministerial Cities with familiar names should act as exists, it equips young people with posts including UK magnets for their region and if the city lifelong skills, marketable anywhere in Energy Minister. He is associated with something else, then the country or the world. is now a UK Business the tourism challenge is all the greater. One certainty is that tourism will never Ambassador, and Lots of effort has gone into branding stop growing as a global industry. chairman of Harris the North-east as Scotland’s Castle That is an even better bet than the Tweed Hebrides and Whisky Country, as a world- future of oil and gas. class centre for golf, as the favoured

24 Property Group at its landmark £35million development of The Capitol. Capitol. of The development £35million landmark atits Group Property Knight of behalf on services refurbishment and offit-out arange provide will It £900,000. than more worth contract anew secured also has group The year. ofthe end the by to completed be projects construction current ofits anumber for up gears it as Aberdeen in Place atThistle headquarters new its on ribbon the cut has It Academy. WickCampus, Community Brimmond Campus, School and Inverness Royal Community Alford new the including ofScotland north the across projects community-based various for partner delivery the is Scotland North Hub office. new brand ofits opening with the to home closer own project its completed has of Scotland north the across developments ofcommunity-based arange behind force driving THE Hub Northmoves south — employees. 10 than with less acompany from to any category entry to best the presented Award be will Business Micro the to this, Economy. addition In Circular and Hydro-Nation Co-operation, Transport, Service, or Product Environmental SME, Management Large, -Management year this sevenaward are categories There environmental performance and support wider sustainable development goals. improve competitiveness, business enhance resources, use of efficient to encourage aims and sectors sizes ofall and to businesses open is VIBES 13. July Monday until submitted be can applications to and enter free awards are The services. and products new developing or processes improving through development sustainable to Scotland’s contribute which businesses rewarding and recognising awardsscheme, environmental leading Scotland’s is VIBES to enter. encouraged are Aberdeen in businesses Awards and (VIBES) ofScotland Environment the for Business in Vision annual 16th the for open now are Applications champions. business green Scotland’s for on is search THE Entries soughtfor green awards — individuals" of team committed and an experienced of successes and efforts on the does as it –reflecting year successive 10th the for milestone fantastic this achieve to rewarding hugely is “It said partner, finance corporate Martin, Douglas Services. Marine ofInterocean acquisition the involving Momentum Reserve by First Rigmar Fund Task Growth by Fronterra Business Partners, Fathom in Systems by Capital Maven investments the and Services; Global DISA to Riverside-backed Health Occupational RS and Group Energy to Global Fabricators S&D Corporation, Global AF backed Reserve to First Connectors of VerdErg disposals the included period the in by AAB completed Transactions deals. (14) ofthose athird initiated and period, same in the firm accountancy any other than more 90% 2014, in 42 transactions completed AAB reveals that market deals Scottish review ofthe Insider's Business Scottish The year. consecutive 10th the for 2014 in Scotland in top dealmaker the as recognised been has accountants, &Brown LLP, chartered Anderson ANDERSON Ten inarow for AAB News Member Cowie Construction Ltd. Construction Cowie contractor, Andrew principal project’s the via secured been has contract The Steele Brown Mike at Anderson Anderson & Brown LLP &Brown Anderson at Anderson Douglas Martin corporatepartner, finance senior partner, corporate finance partner corporatepartner finance Gordon Gordon

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25 NEWS | JUNE 2015 26 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 tour for those who turned up whotour turned forthose staff staff provide would brief a above the cooperage and, above cooperage the and, The visitor centre at that The visitor centre at that handful of multi-tasking of multi-tasking handful if they had the time, the the time, theyif the had time was simply a room was aroom time simply tastings for them." for tastings of whisky alot do we also and Trump course Golf Donald the visiting are to who us come we have ofAmericans alot and Aberdeen in Hotel Douglas the and Apartments Skene like the afield further with places work we also "However umbrella. an give we will them raining, if it's and, ofcoffee a cup for nearby somewhere them we send will tours between arrive people if and bus route Banff the on are "We to Saturday.Wednesday from open is which cafe community the Cafe, Meldrum the and Centre Activity Lochter the House, Pittodrie House, like Meldrum area local the within businesses and with hotels rapport agreat up have"We built 2006. April in was opening official "The said. she time," agreat had they but ofabuilding ashell just was "It arrived. oilmen Kazakh the when refurbishment for back stripped been just had housed now it is which in building granite beautiful the and 2005 Europe Offshore before just granted was wish their when visitor centre aproper for pushing been had manager distillery the and secretary, distillery was who Jane, turned up. who those for brief tour provide a would staff multi-tasking of handful the time, the had if they and, cooperage the above aroom simply was time atthat visitor centre The malt. single quality unpeated producing oflife lease with anew 1997,In it re-opened barley. with smoked made to be Garioch Glen last the 1995, Vintage its producing after temporarily down it closed when break 18-month an from apart 1989, since distillery atthe worked has Jane distillery. Oldmeldrum atthe assistant visitor centre senior Cattanach, Jane said Canada," and Norway US, the are countries top three the but to India Iceland and Vietnam to Venezuela from world, over the all have"We from visitors ayear. visitors 10,000 around attracting economy to local the boost amajor providing is distillery the now but visitors 600 year, a of were first total there that During distillery. Glengarioch centre atvisitors' the visitors new to the would what ultimatelybe first the Europe were Offshore attending oilmen of Kazakh 40 years since aparty IT 10 IS numbers visitor in growth driving drinkers Whisky Feature Tourism of six weddings, including a couple from Germany. Germany. from acouple including of sixweddings, scene the been has and diversified further has distillery The  whisky supplied to UK not included in EU or totals. or EU in included not to UK supplied whisky Scottish therefore and UK the from exports are Figures Source: Total North America Mid East EU Europe Ex-EU America C&S Australasia Asia Africa Her Majesty’s Revenue and Customs (HMRC). Customs and Revenue Majesty’s Her America Scottish whisky regional markets regional whisky Scottish North North 23% America C&S C&S 9% by value (2014) value by 31% EU (ex-EU) Europe Europe £3,944,310,739 £913,583,180 £209,700,635 £1,236,752,492 £110,193,949 £361,399,671 £92,719,463 £800,622,978 £219,338,371 2014 Value 3% Africa 6% Middle east 5% 20% Asia Australasia 2% 27 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 28 FEATURE | JUNE 2015 umbrella.” we will give an them if raining, and, coffee it's nearby for acup of send them somewhere toursbetween we will arrive people “If Feature Tourism champagne." and canapés for there went then they and into bothy excise a office and customs former the have"We turned number. aspecial it has it and on go names their aone-off, it is because special so is which bottle a filled -hand own' your a'bottle did couple the house still the in weretaken lovely photographs of lots then and whisky drop a wee with ceremony aquaich had They them. married registrar the and aisle an constructed we had where centre visitor the in service their had “They to up 30. for cater we can and couple alocal was "It  "We had one last week," said Jane. Jane. said week," last one had "We down the route of local cheeses." route oflocal the down we have but gone cigars and whisky or chocolate and whisky usually it is and there up really now are pairings whisky but thing 80s an much very is wine and Cheese pairings. cheese and whisky up started have"We also here. everyone for ofapassion abit is "It five to relieve toothache. or four I was when taste my first had probably and with whisky grew up "I marriage. her before atGlenfiddich worked and Glenlivet in born was who Jane said distillery," atthe rally asteam and rally car avintage hosted have"We recently Business Bites

Do hotels need to JUNE 2015

refocus on tourism? | OPINION by Tony Mackay

THE main theme of this month’s Oil industry visitors have been a very Business Bulletin is tourism. important market. The North-east economy is currently It is a very important industry in dominated by the oil and gas industry, Scotland as a whole, although which has undoubtedly been of great much less so in the North-east. benefit, as demonstrated by the much It is difficult to estimate accurately the value higher than average incomes and very low of the tourism industry. unemployment. VisitScotland (previously known as the However, it has definitely had adverse Scottish Tourist Board) has estimated that it impacts on other local industries including is worth over £11billion a year and provides tourism because of the big increases in about 250,000 jobs but those numbers are labour and other costs. too high. I believe that the North Sea oil and gas Overseas visitors account for about 30% of industry will decline significantly over the the total and domestic (mainly English and next few years. Scottish) 70%. If so, there will therefore be opportunities I estimate that the net output of the Scottish for tourism and other local industries to tourist industry is currently about 6% of revitalise themselves. the national GDP total but only 2.5% in the The physical attractions obviously remain North-east. as they have been for a long time; Balmoral, The term “net” requires a little explanation the Aberdeenshire coastal villages, because the official statistics ignore the fact Cairngorms National Park, Old Aberdeen, that many Scots spend holidays overseas whisky distilleries, ski centres. I do not think but that expenditure is not covered. there is much need to invest in new visitor attractions. The Scottish and UK statistics treat tourism as an export, because it attracts foreign There have obviously been improvements in revenue, but unfortunately do not treat our the hotel and other accommodation stock, foreign holidays as equivalent to imports. notably in the Aberdeen area. The importance of tourism in the North- The challenge, then, is for the hotel sector to east has undoubtedly declined over the adjust to the declining demand from the oil last few decades, in direct contrast with the industry and provide better value for money growth in the oil and gas industry. for tourists. The best – or worst – indicator of That will not be easy but I believe can be Tony Mackay, that is undoubtedly hotel and other done. oil consultant accommodation prices, particularly in the VisitScotland and VisitAberdeen have good and economics Aberdeen area. reputation and skills. If they can develop expert at As local prices have rocketed, the numbers an effective strategy with Aberdeenshire Inverness- of visitors have fallen – not surprisingly, and Aberdeen City councils, the Chamber based Mackay given the cost differences compared with of Commerce and other bodies, then I am confident that we shall see a resurgence of Consultants, competing regions such as Tayside and the looks at issues Highlands and Islands. tourism in the North-east. facing North- The visitors will not spend as much money Business tourism has been increasingly east business important and the AECC has played a as oil industry workers but will provide a valuable role in attracting conferences and long term market. exhibitions.

29 30 NEWS | JUNE 2015 will be a significant milestone and we’re we’re and milestone asignificant be will City Gigabit first Scotland’s becoming “Aberdeen said: atCityFibre, manager development city McClafferty, James connectivity. internet transformational to access having from to benefit begin soon will CORE Aberdeen to the sign-up to first the wereamong which businesses network, over the to services set (IFB) provide Business For Internet partner project With city. the in operators centre data and networks mobile sectors, public and private the from demands future and current accommodate to engineered it is ensuring design, City” Planned “Well route CityFibre’s follows Its (1000Mbps). second per gigabit to atup one community business to Aberdeen’s connectivity internet ultra-fast deliver will which by CityFibre, operated and built network, optic fibre apure is CORE Aberdeen The month. this to completed set be phase build first with the Lane Mill Justice city’s on the March in began network fibre pure state-of-the-art city-wide, the Work on live month. this the Aberdeen CORE network go to connections first the when City Gigabit to first Scotland’s home be will officially North-east THE News Member Scotland. Scotland. of North-east the for development infrastructure a major is what in part to important have an played delighted city status city closer to gigabit moves Aberdeen aberdeencore.com at www. interest an by registering route network the influence can CORE Aberdeen in interested Organisations users. early its from ofpraise abackdrop amidst launched to set is be project infrastructure leading the construction, of phase first to network’s the up signed already businesses overWith 100 laid. network fibre pure see to first the Schoolhill and Road Queens areas among Street, with Union community, business the from by demand determined is network CORE Aberdeen ofthe routing precise The andreliability.” efficiency performance, highest the maintaining whilst business, their proof to future clients our allow will network CORE Aberdeen ofthe part being that believe “I network. world-class CORE Aberdeen to new the clients our connecting of stage we atthe now are that delighted am “I said: of IFB, CEO Gordon, Graeme Britain.” well connected business communities in and advanced most ofthe one as Aberdeen we’re looking ahead to helping enhance city, ofthe parts other throughout network the to continue plans “With provide. can network the that services the rewards from the to reap begin soon will sign-ups early the were among who those and fantastic been already has city the from support “The at CityFibre. Development Manager McClafferty, City James of and IFB Gordon,Graeme CEO From to left right, adding anadditional£100,000 inannualfees to thebusiness. IT contracts for Accord Energy, NRG,DrumProperty andThe DentalPractice, The specialist firmwhichisbasedinAberdeen’s Rubislaw Terrace has won the challenging market conditions following thedrop intheprice ofoil. INDIGO Technologies hassecured anumberofcontracts inthelast monthdespite Indigo wins — contract award. transmission linkproject inwhichcould end upasthecompany’s largest ever post-lay back-fill operations onthe100-mile£1.2billionCaithness-Moray electricity automation andpower group ABBto provide seabedclearance, trenching and ESS recently announced ithadsignedaLetter ofIntent withinternational revenue upby 88%to £15.6million. ESS isbasedinBanchoryandprofits to March 2014 trebled to £3.4millionwith seabed excavation, trenching andboulderclearance work. manufacture thelatest version ofESS’s SCARsubseaploughwhichisusedin As partofthedeal,MASfab hasbeenawarded aseven-figure contract to gas andrenewables sectors, for anundisclosedsum. which provides arange offabrication, welding andconstruction services to theoil, ECOSSE SubseaSystems (ESS) hasacquired County Durham-basedMASfab, Ecosse acquisition News Member Ecosse SubseaSystems Ltd Commercial director, Keith McDermott, 31 NEWS | JUNE 2015 32 POLICY | JUNE 2015 in the UKCS. the in industry ofthe down winding the accelerate will term long the in which investment, and exploration new discourage will this as rises price oil the once sector the on burdens additional place and taxes up hike not does Government UK the that essential is It five years. next over the maintained be will sector the for stability how on clarity further provide also must Minister The from government. interference unnecessary without industry ofthe direction future the about decisions to make free be must authority The environment. operating to the changes required the to implement autonomy full given be Authority Gas and Oil the for asking is Chamber the Likewise, Budget. 2015 atthe indicated timescales Tax Revenue the Petroleum within and Charge to Supplementary the cuts the implement must government the welcome, are 2014 December since confirmed have been which changes fiscal the While environment. regulatory and regime fiscal its in both sector, the in stability long-term for need the stresses letter, Chamber its the In the Parliament. UK term next of the during sector gas oil and of the needs the highlight to Energy, Leadsome, Andrea ofto new State Minister the for Election, the Chamber has written FOLLOWING last month’s General Minister Energy UK to writes new Chamber Update Policy Scotland reaps the benefit. the reaps Scotland of rest the that so region the in investment to prioritise parties ofall politicians lobby to continue will team The North-east. the in business about intelligence and information ofimpartial asource as to Chamber the look regularly now parties ofall MSPs of2015. beginning the since Parliament Scottish the in mentions 16 receiving Chamber the in resulted has This economy. Scottish the growing and visas work study post- industry, gas and oil the supporting including ofissues, arange on to MSPs briefings to send continued has team The Parliament. Scottish atthe representatives elected with businesses ofNorth-east needs the to highlight continued has Chamber the 2015, of half first the in minds people’s most on was Election General UK the While Holyrood at profile North-east to raise continues Chamber Treasury. HM with Deal City ofa benefits the promoting in to role play have important will an Change Climate and Energy for Department the so region the in headquartered remain to them encourage would infrastructure to local the improvements the that have highlighted firms gas and Oil North-east. the for Deal City proposed the given particularly apriority, as highlighted also is government within links cross-department Improved agcc.co.uk rachel.elliott@ Elliott Rachel executive, policy ...can contact more... out find to wishing Members @chambertalk coversation the Join at at employers whohave atrack record inrecruiting and retaining young people. Launched inJuly2014, IIYPisanew accreditation whichseeksto recognise Young People accreditation. DOIG+SMITH isthefirst construction consultancy to be awarded Investors In IIYP accreditation — stimulating discussion andcollaboration. computing resources together withacomfortable socialspace for relaxation, communication technology andhighqualitydigital infrastructure withpowerful Students, staff andalumni willbeable to take advantage of state oftheart supportive incubation space to nurture clever ideas. Aberdeen’s fundingof£450,000 hasbeenusedto create an inspiringand opened inMay issited intheMacRobert BuildingontheKing’s College campus. The University ofAberdeen’s digitalinnovation hub–theABVenture Zone -which formally openedinJuly. provide ameetingroom andsocialarea for networking andisexpected to be 13 peopleto work at onetimeviaahot-deskingsystem. The facility willalso its Riverside East Road buildingonGarthdee whichwillprovide space for around RGU hasreceived £450,000 towards itshubandhasrenovated facilities opposite Super Connected Citiesprogramme. using £1.5millionoffundingfrom theDepartmentofCulture, MediaandSport’s programme, which,alongsideathird hubrunby Elevator have beenestablished The incubators are partofAberdeen CityCouncil’s Accelerate Aberdeen their ideas. entrepreneurial students, graduates andsmallbusinesses develop andprogress spec computers, laserscanners,3Dprinters andprivate cloudstorage, to help hubs, whichare kitted outwitharange ofcuttingedgetechnology includinghigh Robert Gordon University (RGU) andtheUniversity ofAberdeen are launchingthe universities gearupto launchtwo new digitalinnovation incubators. YOUNG entrepreneurs intheNorth-east are setfor aboost asAberdeen’s Universities launchdigitalhubs — quickly discovered that there was more demandfor thechocolates ontheirown. She tested themarket withcupcakes topped withtransfer-printed chocolates but Nursing Corps captainto getstarted. organisational skillsanddisciplineshegained asaQueenAlexandra’s Royal Army transfer printinginamagazineboughtanairportlounge, anddrew onthe Felicity launchedherbusiness in2013 after sheread anarticleaboutedible and ourfirst for aScottish Premiership football club.” with sponsorMCIElectrotechnics logo,” saidFelicity. “This isourbiggest to date “We suppliedtheboxes for theevent, each containing four chocolates branded provide afullycustomised service. grown fruitsandspecialisesinprintinglogosimagesonto theproducts to The firmmakes luxurychocolates andtrufflesusingBelgianchocolate andlocally- Exhibition andConference Centre. chocolates for thisyear’s Player oftheYear Dinner, heldrecently at Aberdeen Felicity’s Chocolate suppliedmore than700 boxes ofbespoke hand-madeBelgian FC. ALFORD chocolatier Felicity Macdonald haslandedherfirst order from Aberdeen Felicity’s Chocolate News Member and avariety ofconstruction projects across allsectors. developing theirskillsandexperience through astructured training programme Doig+Smith maintains apolicy ofrecruiting students at alllevels ofstudy and Macdonald Football Clubwith George Yule andherchocolates from Aberdeen from Aberdeen Felicity Felicity 33 NEWS | JUNE 2015 34 NEWS | JUNE 2015 Aberdeen Airport Aberdeen at located ground Fire News Member transfer existing skills among Cypriots into those needed in oil and gas. and oil in needed into those Cypriots among skills existing transfer to provide training and gas and oil in roles job with specific aligned is education university ensure and atschools subjects ofSTEM uptake the sector, increase gas and oil emerging the in opportunities ofthe awareness to generate Cyprus in academia and government with education, closely work and UK, the in tested and tried tools, and initiatives skills ofthe many rollout also will organisation The infrastructure. training create a safety and ofhydrocarbons production and exploration the in required skills technical necessary the develop help will OPITO region. the for hub gas and oil emerging an is Cyprus territories, offshore own their marking Egypt and Lebanon Israel, as such countries neighbouring and horizon the on exploration additional With area. the in ofgas feet cubic trillion 122 estimated with an frontier energy anew considered is Mediterranean Eastern The Cyprus. in office anew in invested has body skills gas and oil global the officials, government Cypriot with senior discussions Following Mediterranean Eastern the in gas and oil for excellence technical of centre aregional to become Cyprus helping in role to is OPITO a major play Cypriot office forOpito — market.” lucrative highly this targeting on curve of the to ahead wanted be “We tourism. business and leisure overseas on year every spends China $128billion ofthe ashare to abid attract in year this website earlier ofour version aChinese launched “We executive said: Steve chief Harris VisitAberdeen’s Expo. recent VisitScotland’s at Business” Doing For Stand Effective Most of “The accolade the won also organisation marketing destination The CBN. partner its via and person in both fairs attrade attendance and presence media social website, language (COTRI) Institute Chinese its for Research Tourism Outbound China the award from amarketing won VisitAberdeen performance. its awardsfor major two secured –has – VisitAberdeen destination business and aleisure as Aberdeen markets which organisation THE VisitAberdeen accolades — industry.” the in times challenging the despite facilities, our enhance to and invest we continue that vital is “It said: Leyden, Colin UK, Services Falck Safety for director Managing standards. (STCW) and Watchkeeping ofTraining, Certification Standards meet to five years last the within training updating or course training the completing of either evidence have documentary must 2017, 1, seafarers of January As functions. survival and safety occupational emergency, regarding responsibilities and duties tasks, the to undertake ofcompetence standards required the maintained having of provide evidence to five years, every required, are Seafarers industry. maritime the for requirements training new the for demand meet will and mind in purpose with adual designed been also has It simulations. rescue and helicopter with increased training with live fire situations real-life to experience delegates allow and facilities art state-of-the- using courses training fire OPITO-approved and bespoke relevant, with workers to offshore provide Falck to continue enable will investment The Airport. at Aberdeen (FTG) located Fire Group The with Training partnership in working storeyrig, fire new three- a installing asset, training fire its enhanced has FALCK Services Safety New fire rig for Falck Read Steve’s opinion of what the region has to offer on page 18. page on to offer has region the ofwhat Steve’sRead opinion 01224 652511 [email protected] To bookaconsultation contact theInformation Centre intheCentral Library on HGF Aberdeen for helpingwiththisservice.” registered patent attorney onany IPmatter ofinterest. We are most grateful to said: "The IPclinicsprovide thepublicwithanopportunityto be advisedby a Joy McGrimmond,business andenterprise librarian at Aberdeen CityLibraries, information. confidential IP covers awidearea oflaw includingpatents, trade marks,copyright, designsand Aberdeen withIPmatters.” provide thispro bonoservice andlookforward to helpingmany peoplein Craig Watson, managing partnerat HGFAberdeen, said:“We are pleasedto service, organised by Aberdeen CityLibraries. HGF Aberdeen istakingpartinafree localIntellectual Property (IP)advice clinic Library hosts IPadvice clinic — from Robert Gordon University. joining thefirm to supporttheincreased business levels –includingtwo graduates Staff numbers at Converged have alsoincreased to 20, with four new employees with longdistance connections delivered by SSE Telecoms. headquartered firm’s sixUKoffices, which are spread fromOrkney to London, engineering consultancy Xodus Group. The contract covers theAberdeen- connectivity (1,000 megabitspersecond) andITsupportto international Included inthisisathree-year dealworth £300,000 to provide GigabitInternet over £450,000. services, hasrecently secured anumberofcontracts withacombined value of The firm,whichprovides internet connections, telephone systems andITsupport WaterlooQuay. into itsown larger headquarters at thehistoric Merchants Houseinthecity’s Converged, whichwas established in2005,hasmoved from shared office space accommodate continued growth. Communication Solutionshasexpanded itsoperations into new office to premises ICT (information andcommunications technology) provider Converged Expansion for Converged — addition to ayear ofcelebrations to markthecharity’s 30thanniversary in2013. built CLANHouseandHaven facilities onWestburn Road inAberdeen in Highlights includedtheplanning,construction andlaunchofthe£3millionpurpose throughout Aberdeenshire andMoray aswell asinShetlandandOrkney of more than60andhasexpanded itsreach from Aberdeen to provide services Under herstewardship, CLANhasgrown from employing ateam offive to a staff month andtheprocess hasnow begunto recruit areplacement. CLAN Cancer Supportchiefexecutive DebbieThomson isto stand down next CLAN chiefsteps down News Member CLAN Cancer Support Chief executive, Debbie Thomson, 35 NEWS | JUNE 2015 36 BUSINESS LESSONS | JUNE 2015 bonaccordandstnicholas.com bonaccordandstnicholas.com www. visit centres the on further For Savills. agency retail specialist by managed and REIT F&C by owned are aweek, visitors of270,000 average an attract which centres, The key retailers. the among are Island River and Look New largest city’s the as Topman standalone store as well Aberdeen’s only Topshop and Next, largest Scotland’s stores. 100 to around home and space ofprime ft sq 840,000 sector,centre’s retail offering city ofAberdeen heart at the are Accord&St Nicholas Bon Nicholas &St Accord Bon Centre manager, Craig Stevenson learned I’ve lessons Business well or to get too down when things go against you! against go things totoo when down or get well going are things when ofyou better tothe get ego to your allow Neither in business? you lesson toughest have the is What learned nothing. for counts it this, to deliver people have right the if don’t you but, plan business and aspirations vision, have best the can –you strength our are People tomost you? Which of your company values means Aberdeen. have that surpassed cities inferior frankly, quite with, to us allow compete and centre city the for change transformational a tobehind all get us for ameans provides masterplan The this. to work change all we must and to have reputation agreat not by. us to obviously is pass This presented have industry gas and oil the that opportunities the have allowed and to change we resistant are that is city our outside ofthose perception The of. proud be all we can a city creating as well economy,as North-east whole ofthe growth the support help will Masterplan Centre City ofthe delivery that believe I firmly would be? it what Scotland, North-east would benefit that tomorrow you happen If could thing make one in. time spend to want they environment an to want and visit visitors that ofretailers mix a through customers our for experience To shopping create afantastic your vision for company? ultimate the is What to trade on an even footing. an on to trade allowed are they ensure we must and stores physical always will be there to grow, continue will sales online While stores. new than rather presence online their on focus to more put retailers encourages and balance uneven an creates This online. more and stores physical in taken is money less when atatime to grow retailers for have rates continued Business moment? atthe business your for barrier to biggest growth the is What economy. local whole the support help will spend and visitor numbers increased and offer on it has what to sell most than to harder work has Aberdeen is, as it remote Geographically afield. further those and neighbours near to city, visitors the both more to attract to have ability the Aberdeen For why? would what and be it environment, business of your terms in youthing If one could change down. costs keep us to help locally delivered is that training quality to high access us allows it nationally. Additionally, and city the both within policy influence as well city, the as in key businesses other the with all to interact opportunity the us gives It oflevels. anumber on works Chamber ofthe amember Being company? your of Commerce helped Chamber Grampian & Aberdeen of the amember How being has of. envious be would cities other many that abuzz and world the in anywhere architecture fantastic most ofthe by it is as many, some it has Criticised centre. city the still is area city, the Ihave to saymy around favourite scenery stunning the Despite shire? or city your favouriteWhat’s of Aberdeen part It’s our round — celebrating Scotland’s Year of Food &Drink FoodFest15 drink food and focusesJuly on desk in an emergency? in an desk thingWhat one would you save from your Hot topic — columnists calendar, regular our the month in tweets, wellAs the Move, as On training &events — of the city’s with scene bar Adrian Gomes – how the North-east is is –how the North-east – a look at the changing face at– alook the changingface proud of." proud a city we all be can as well as creating economy,North-east growth of the whole the will support help Centre Masterplan ofdelivery the City believe firmly "I that 37 BUSINESS LESSONS | JUNE 2015 38 HOT TOPIC | JUNE 2015 Jimmy Buchan, Buchan, Jimmy Ltd Andrew LB Director, Andrew, Louise Apartments AB11 Director, Milne, Michael Topic Hot Amity Fish Company Skipper/owner,

cake without feeling guilty." feeling without cake have my Ican then and choice ahealthy made like I've feel to me make vegetables enough in pack they soups, hearty oftheir have one I'll time Ihave If more favourite! another brownies- chocolate wonderful most the and coffee great serves It need. they support what about conversation honest and open have avery can you so ease at people put helps it room, meeting to office an contrast awelcome is shop airy bright The coffee. for contacts and clients potential meet often and location fixed a from work Idon't Reports, with Bread consultant and adviser legal afreelance As cake! of piece a and coffee good of a really fond particularly I'm but love food I Lane. Gaelic in House Coffee The is people meet FAVOURITE to and eat "MY place find." they with what impressed be will they we know that knowledge the in safe arrive, they when customers to our Park atthe Inn the we recommend and walk minutes 10 within Street atPortland located are apartments serviced Our also. recommended definitely is Sunday on carvery all-day The welcoming. very atmosphere general and staff the we always find importantly as just and excellent always is food the Park, Duthie ofthe metres 200 within situated Ideally us. boxes for both ofthose ticks definitely Ferryhill in Park atthe Inn The food. with good relaxed fairly is that somewhere for we look out we eat when boys HAVE so young two "WE restaurant? favourite your is Which is cod." is options whether it's langoustines, haddock or halibut but probably my least favourite all to open am I dayand that for special to the look often and offish any type try I will chefs. the course and of processors the fishermen, plate fish by the to the that getting in is involved effort and hard work howmuch appreciate I fact by the influenced probably am I think I fish. be normally would meal a for out am if I choice mybut first lamb or beef bit of good enjoy a do I and a week times of three minimum a fish I eat stockshigh-end like langoustine monkfish, and scallops the to tend buy restaurants Italian and market export largest second Scotland's is Italy ways. innovative in prepared but locally caught is which fish on focused very it is though, Seriously Company's. Fish Amity - fish superb it uses because Accord Crescent Bon in Napoli Ciao is favourite that my restaurant surprise no maybe is it "AS Afishermen YOU'D LIKETO SHARE? DO YOU HAVE ANOPINION [email protected] Our runners up... - Tickets must be claimed within one year of notification. of year one within claimed be must - Tickets to availability subject is travel of - Date necessary is purchase no and to enter to members free is promotion - The through oftickets pair next to ofhow the win details for out look so December, to April from month to every win achance is There Sleeper. Caledonian ofthe courtesy todown London, heading now is he that means towards line the race horses the as face Mervyn’s on ofdelight look the but Anderson, Phil from competition strong more once was There @chambertalk best the was challenge The of Commerce. Chamber &Grampian Aberdeen from guests 46 included which acontingent aday of networking, for Races at Perth were Scotland across ofCommerce ofChambers Members Carnegie. ofCameron Stanley Mervyn is tickets Sleeper Caledonian of to apair win month’s competition of last winner THE Competition Monthly @phil4finance Anderson financial services Phil of Anderson Phil @derek4protect services financial of Phil Anderson Derek Robertson – a selfie with a horse. with a –aselfie @chambertalk #horsie @Prestige_AFC AFC Prestige Sodex of Debra @LisaDuthie1 Cornerstone of Duthie Lisa pic tweeted to tweeted pic . @CameronCarnegie Cameron Carnegie of Stanley Mervyn Well to done tweets... in month This @AGCCtraining @AGCCevents @chambertalk coversation the Join @chambertalk business? on be impact the will What morning. this @JC_Accountants with briefing post-election Attending @AGCC_Rachel Rachel @ChildreachNepal for today. over help £300 Weyour raised @chambertalk Thanks to @ElenaM_B Elena Mayer-Besting #network chum #CityConnections Looking forward to @TLPProperty Practice Law The UniStrathclyde Chamber @GlaChamberEvent @chambertalk breakfast day another Another @AGCCevents AGCC Events culturalmarket offering. Aberdeen's @StatoilUK with We collaborate Viewpoint! @chambertalk @AberdeenFests Aberdeen Festivals @EmpLawyerSimon @AGCCTraining . Their sponsorship helps us us helps sponsorship . Their Enjoyed this month's month's this Enjoyed & working with working @GrubFreshFood on Fri! Spotted new new Spotted Fri! on @chambertalk on the list too! too! list the on @Glasgow_ first up first 's 's for for @ 39 NEWS | JUNE 2015 Photo Diary Danny Alexander, April 24 at AGCC JUNE 2015 PHOTO DIARY |

40 Perth races, April 22 at Perth Racecourses JUNE 2015 PHOTO DIARY |

Ann Harper, Kim Cummings, Ron Lawrie and Lesley Davidson

Phil Anderson, Derek Robertson, Ryan Yule and Becky Shiel Mervyn Stanley

Lisa Duthie, Howard Elliot and Debra Lorimer

41 Training Calendar

June

JUNE 2015 Date Course "Working with the Chamber has been 11 Cash is King Thu Improving business cash flow: make that difficult call excellent... it has really gone a long 16 Building Effective Teams way to improving Tue Team dynamics, leadership and group problem solving, develop morale our performance

TRAINING CALENDAR | 16 Change Management (2 days) and influencing the Tue Effectively manage business and people transformation using practical techniques behaviour of our workforce" 16 Marketing, Social Media and Communication (2 days) Tue Learn the fundamentals of marketing, research, branding, PR, networking, Richard Begbie, digital marketing and social media Director of HSE & Risk, Scotia Homes 18 Essential Supervisory Skills Thu Bridging the gap between doing and supervising See the whole story http://bit.ly/1DOLn7B 18 Emotional Intelligence Thu Ensure you are better equipped to handle the ever-increasing pressures of a — modern workplace without losing your cool Vocational 19 Sales and Account Management Fri Achieve your targets, goals and objectives Qualifications Scottish Vocational 22 Communicate to compete (2 days) NEW qualifications are based on Tue Manage your message across different platforms to give your company the standards of work-based competitive edge competence, designed by Sector Skills Council in 23 Communication and Interpersonal Skills partnership with industry Tue Get messages across positively and effectively, establish rapport and build and awarding bodies. There positive on-going relationships are no tests or exams, 24 HR for Non HR Managers competence is assessed Wed Knowledge and techniques for mangers/directors/supervisors who perform in the candidate's own HR duties workplace.

24 Time Management Wed 'Get your act together'

24 Export Documentation Explained Wed Understand what is involved in documentation - save time and money

25 Effective Email Newsletters NEW Thu Getting it opened, writing the best content, strategic campaigning

29 Customer Service Excellence Mon Excel at customer service, both internal and external

See our For more information updated Susan Staniforth calendar at T 01224 343917 www.agcc.co.uk E [email protected] Book online at www.agcc.co.uk/book

42 Events Calendar

June Event Time JUNE 2015 11 Business Breakfast - Food and Drink 7am - 9am Save the dates Thu Village Urban Resort, Aberdeen Northern Star 11 Peterhead CCS Local Business Engagement 11.45am - 2pm Business Awards Thu Event Buchan Braes, Boddam 2015

12 22nd Oil & Gas Survey Launch (invitation only) 10.30am - 1pm Finalists Reception EVENTS CALENDAR | Fri Thistle Airport, Aberdeen Thursday September 17, 2015

17 AGM 2015 (members only) 5.30pm - 7pm Awards Ceremony Wed AECC, Aberdeen Thursday September 24, 2015

17 Chamber Network Evening (invitation only) 6.15pm - 8pm Table Prices Wed AECC, Aberdeen Member Table of 12 £1650 (+VAT) 19 Business Breakfast - Infrastructure Bill 7am - 9am Non-member Table of 12 Fri Thistle Airport, Aberdeen £1890 (+VAT) Book online at www.agcc.co.uk/book 19 Oil and Gas opportunities in Brazil in the 11.45am - 2pm Fri current economic scenario Sponsorship Opportunities AGCC, Aberdeen To find out more about the sponsorship opportunities available email 24 Tourism Shire Connections 11.45am - 2pm [email protected] Wed Trump International Golf Links. Aberdeen @AGCCevents 30 Business benefits of youth 11.45am - 2pm www.northernstarawards.co.uk Tue AGCC, Aberdeen July Event Time

1 Women Mean Business 11.45am - 2pm Wed Ardoe House Hotel & Spa, Aberdeen

2 Vanguard Dinner (invitation only) 6pm - 9.30pm Thu Ardoe House Hotel & Spa, Aberdeen

3 Business Breakfast 7am - 9am Fri Thistle Airport, Aberdeen

Book events online at www.agcc.co.uk/book

Thanks to our sponsors

Hareness Road, Altens Industrial Estate, For ALL your print Aberdeen AB12 3LE and promotional T: 01224 875987 E: [email protected] requirements www.compassprint.co.uk Litho Print | Digital Print | Signs & Labels | Exhibition & Display | Promotional Gifts

43 44 ON THE MOVE | JUNE 2015 sectors. sectors. marine andindustrial renewable, petrochemical, in theonshore, offshore, company’s customer base ongoing growth ofthe He willassist inthe development manager. created role ofbusiness Lee Hartto thenewly services AELhasappointed electrical products and International provider of Lee Hart social enterprise. commercial strategy ofthe he was responsible for the director ofGlencraft where general managerandboard following four years asthe He joinsthecompany as commercial director. has appointed CarlHodson Chess Group plccompany, BlueSky Business Space, a accommodation provider Serviced office Carl Hodson Move the On McWilliam asgeneral has appointed Graham Glencraft (Aberdeen) Ltd Graham McWilliam Anderson Strathern in2011. the business merged with experts Bell&Scott before commercial property of Edinburgh andGlasgow previously managingpartner Aberdeen-born Paul was partner, Paul Jennings. the appointmentofanew property departmentwith strengthened itscommercial Aberdein Considine has Paul Jennings sector. from thecorporate banking Graham joinsthecompany and trustee. manager /executive director standard ofcustomer for maintaining thehigh and willberesponsible operations experience Keith has26years ofwireline firm's Aberdeen office. sales manager, basedinthe Thomson asglobalafter- Elmar hasappointed Keith Keith Thomson with thecompany’s overall strategic plan. and market research initiatives, ensuringthat they dovetail Ryan willbecoordinating thegroup’s marketing, advertising opportunities. developing existing relationships andexploring new business company’s foundation of"success through reputation" by Gregg’s responsibilities at Northwillbeto buildonthe promoted Ryan Neave into marketing andcommunications. has appointed Gregg McMillanassalesmanagerand design, buildandmanagementofrefurbishment projects, North Group, whichspecialisesintheinterior andexterior Ryan Neave andGregg McMillan international bases. activities across 13 Elmar’s the expansion ofafter-sales support andcoordinating development managerat recently thebusiness (MPA). Nicholaswas most of Montrose Port Authority appointed chiefexecutive shipping sectors, hasbeen experience intheportand has more than26years’ Nicholas Scott-Gray, who Nicholas Scott-Gray Forth Ports Ltd. Edinburgh. The MountRoyal Hotel in for Embassy Hotels at 1988 astrainee manager and started hiscareer in in thehospitalityindustry He hasextensive experience Aberdeen. of thePark Innby Radisson appointed general manager Frank Whitaker hasbeen Frank Whitaker independent practice. self-employed basisfor an a financial firmsandon for two well-established 2010 andpreviously worked international relations in with adegree inFrench and University ofAberdeen Derek graduated from the financial consultant. Derek Robertson asa Services Ltd hasappointed Phil AndersonFinancial Derek Robertson Bancon Group his post after 12years with Parsons, whois retiring from Gavin willsucceed George Dandara inAberdeen, construction director at Formerly commercial construction business. managing director ofits appointed Gavin Currieas Bancon Group has Gavin Currie recently promoted Emma based onHolburnStreet, has The Law Practice Leasing, Emma Higgins was appointed inMay. coordinator, AshleighCarnie, whilst trainee leasing hand for leasingadvice company, willremain on who helpedestablish the Consultant KimBeattie, Higgins to leasingmanager. OPITO, ILMandCityGuilds. internal verifier training andisanapproved centre for SQA, ITB specialisesinthedelivery ofcompetence assessor and of leadinternal verifier. competency advisorandDavid Sadlerhastaken ontherole Neil Campbellhasjoinedthecompany asglobal members ofstaff. ITB Competence Assurance hasappointed two new Neil CampbellandDavid Sadler [email protected] Let usknow at ARE YOU ONTHEMOVE? office. Robson, to itsAberdeen property manager, Bryan consultancy, hasappointed commercial property FG Burnett,theScottish Bryan Robson on theBoard. chair after nearlythree years appointed asthenew vice- Peter Watson has been after 11years intherole. who retired aschairman succeeds JohnMcIntosh Annual General Meeting.He as chiefexecutive at the following hisretirement as thenew chairman has appointed Pat Machray operative, theANMGroup North-East farming co- Pat Machray 45 ON THE MOVE | JUNE 2015 New Members

Aberdeen Chiropractic Clinic North Sea Compactors Ltd Chiropractic, X-rays, Medical Thermal Imaging, Bioresonance, Medical Design, manufacture, sale and rental of heavy-duty offshore waste

JUNE 2015 Acupuncture, Massage, Digital Gaitscan & Orthotics, Rehabilitation, compactors and the sale of offshore quality polypropylene bags. Our bags Lifestyle, Nutrition & Supplementation, Weight loss & Antismoking are manufactured from “over-weight” fabric and have extra-long lifting Programs. loops to achieve their rated SWL and SF when lifted from a single point by 331 Great Western Road crane. Aberdeen Units 7&9, Logman Centre AB10 6NW Greenbank Crescent NEW MEMBERS | East Tullos Industrial Estate 01224 585456 T Aberdeen [email protected] E AB12 3BG W www.aberdeenchiropracticclinic.com C Eline Pedersen - Director T 01224 248455 _ E [email protected] www.northseacompactors.com Altablue Ltd W Altablue is a people consultancy, delivering recruitment services for C Simon Mackay – Managing Director our clients with a focus on relationships and collaboration. We are head _ quartered in Aberdeen, UK, with client operations globally enabling us to place and source candidates all over the world in either a staff or contract Peterkins capacity. We specialise in the employment of the following disciplines: Peterkins solicitors is a full service legal practice with its headquarters in Accounting & Finance, Commercial, HR, IT, Administration, Supply Chain, Aberdeen and other offices in Inverurie, Huntly, Keith and Alford Engineering & Technical, Subsea, Construction and Offshore Construction, 100 Union Street Commissioning and Maintenance Trades. Aberdeen 6th Floor AB10 1QR New Telecom House 73 College Street T 01224 428000 Aberdeen E [email protected] AB11 6FD W www.peterkins.com C Gordon Mccallum - Partner T 01224 777878 _ E [email protected] Rig Engineering SAS Ltd W www.alta-blue.com Offshore oil & gas, civil & structural engineering, panoramic colour laser C Iain Hamilton – Marketing and Communications Manager scan, reverse engineering, calculation including Finite Element Assessment, or Caroline McMurray – Resourcing Team Leader site survey with Total Station, design and drafting _ 621 George Street JCE Group (UK) Ltd Aberdeen An ATEX & IECEx solutions provider, specialising in the design and AB25 3YE manufacture of high-performance control systems for Ex areas, Ex inspection and Ex Survey, Ex maintenance. T 01224 627200 Blackburn Business Park E [email protected] Aberdeen W www.rig-engineering.info AB21 0PS C Danny Sananikone - Director T 01224 798600 E [email protected] W www.jcegroup.com C Barry Stott - Business Development Manager _ NCCL Ltd Fittings Supplier Broomhill Road Spurryhillock Industrial Estate Stonehaven AB39 2NH T 01569 7656701 E [email protected] W www.nccl.co.uk Welcome C Vicky Cairns – Management Accountant to the Chamber 46