BusinessBulletin MAY 2016

Energy focus THE FUTURE OF ENERGY?

PAGE | 06 PAGE | 12 PAGE | 22 PAGE | 36 ENERGY COVER FEATURE CIVIC LINKS THE NIGG BAY REFERENDUM: OUR OUR FOCUS THIS THE CHALLENGE OF OPENING TRADING VISION: BRIAN RELATIONSHIP MONTH DECOMMISSIONING DOORS WILSON WITH EUROPE

Chamber Viewpoint

What is the future for MAY 2016 energy in ?

IN 2013 I gave a presentation to the area to create the world-leading centre of Qatar Olympic Games Bid committee excellence for supporting innovation in the in Doha. energy sector. My home city came up in the conversation Decommissioning is a natural consequence CHAMBER VIEWPOINT | and I said: “You might have heard of of operating in this sector so it should not Aberdeen for two reasons. be treated as a dirty word, synonymous with the early demise of UKCS operations. “First, it is where Sir Alex Ferguson practised before going to Manchester Embracing this and developing United; second, it is Europe’s oil capital.” leading edge know-how, systems and processes can establish Aberdeen as the His Excellency Sheikh Saoud bin acknowledged global expert in this space Abdulrahman Al-Thani responded by and provide opportunities in maturing saying: “No, no, Aberdeen is not the oil basins around the world for many years to capital of Europe, it is the oil capital of the come. world.” The proposed Aberdeen Harbour So given the current issues that are being expansion will be central to this and must be experienced in the sector as a result of a delivered. perfect storm of global market factors, is that reputation still appropriate and, if so, And whether it be Iran, Ghana, Mexico or how do we capitalise on it? one of the many other emerging markets, our supply chain needs to be open- Question: how can we ensure that we really minded to exploring opportunities outside do anchor a significant energy industry hub traditional comfort zones. here well beyond any of our lifetimes? Gloomy headlines might suggest to Answer: COLLABORATION, INNOVATION, outsiders that our city region is closed for INTERNATIONALISATION, “UPSIDES”. business and that oil and gas is dead. In the short term, operators and the supply If we allow things to be talked down chain have been working together to too much, how can we expect potential introduce innovation, new thinking and investors to view Aberdeen as a safe best practice that has seen strong progress financial bet or to attract people to come towards the target of almost halving the here to study or build a career? average cost of production. While not forgetting that times remain Maintaining these behaviours as prices rally tricky, we have a job to do to remind will be the key to maximising the recovery ourselves and others of the upsides; the of the significant remaining oil and gas many good things about living, working and resources in the UK Continental Shelf and doing business in Aberdeen. ensuring that the UK Government continues to listen to the industry in terms of providing The foundations remain in place for a highly the necessary tax conditions to incentivise successful future. long term investment and activity. If we collectively make good and bold The establishment of an Oil and Gas decisions and take the necessary actions Technology Centre is the centrepiece of now we will anchor Aberdeen as a the Opportunity North East initiative, and significant international oil and gas location aims to coordinate and build on the pockets for many years to come as part of a vibrant of great work already happening in the and diversified regional economy.

Russell Borthwick chief executive 3 We thank our Premier Partners Premier for their continued support of Partners the Chamber.

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

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 African President Edel Harris opportunities T 01224 343911 E [email protected]

Bulletin Team

Editor Joanna Fraser T 01224 343926 E [email protected]

News Features 06 20 Graeme Smith Media Decommissioning Investing in T 01224 275833 challenge the future

Advertising Jim Bruce T 01224 343905 E [email protected] Regulars PAGE | Design & Production POLICY UPDATE Keiran Smart 36 Relationship status with the EU ... it's complicated T 01224 343934 E [email protected] HOT TOPIC Which fashion item would you like to see 40 making a comeback?

TRAINING & EVENTS CALENDAR Dates for your diary 42

ON THE MOVE Who is going places in the region? 44

Cover image Cromarty Firth Courtesy of Peter Jolly 5 6 FEATURE | MAY 2016 £16.9billion for oil and gas and oil for The next decade infrastructure UKCS onthe installations, wells, pipelines other and subsea decommissioningon the of offshore oilgas and atotal of to isforecast spend The industry £16.9billion The industry is forecast to spend atotal of to isforecast spend The industry on 2014's tenon yearforecast £2.3billion INCREASE OF the Central North Sea North Central the to2015 2024 in willconcentrated be from expenditure of total the forecast £8.4billion platforms 79 the next decade across the UKCS over are forecast for removal 50% some ofthosechallenges. decommissioning challengesandwe are thefirst to address “We are amature basin sowe are facing diverse a globalscale. capability to ensure itisboth sustainable andcompetitive on “A key challengewill bedeveloping the supplychain build astrong export position. UKCS and the industry more effectively butalsoallows us to decommissioning whichallows usto service notonlythe “We want to buildacompetitive UKcapabilityin outcome for theUKCS. to thefuture upturn,whichisgoingto leadto abetter address theshort-term priorities,whilealsobuildingabridge “We are takingaprogressive view by makingsure we might berelatively close to someofthesehubs. “It must alsoallow usto getto the marginal fieldswhich we’ve launched. to new fields to make useofthe recent exploration initiatives doesn’t collapse criticalinfrastructure andallows usaccess simplification in regional hubsbut we need to ensure it “Maximising economic recovery may indeedmean environmentally friendlymanner. not onlydoitmore cost effectively butdoitinasafe and “We want to take amuchmore integrated approach sowe asset life-cycle. “Ultimately decommissioning isavery natural partofthe is making. and decommissioning ispleasedwiththeprogress theboard Dr Angela Seeney, OGA director for technology, supply chain others around thembecauseofincreasing cost pressures. decommissioning ofsomeresulting intheearlydemiseof That could leadto thedominoeffect withthe decommissioned prematurely. industry continues to mature, itisvitalthat assets are not could helpoffsetthejobswhichwillinevitably belost asthe While decommissioning offers asignificantopportunityand of UKoffshore oiland gas. as partofitsaimmaximisingeconomic recovery challenges to thenew Authority OilandGas (OGA) DECOMMISSIONING presents oneofthemajor decommissioning of challenge The energy feature of Future beginning to thinkaboutitsdecommissioning programme “Norway has yet to decommission inearnest butisalready  decommissioning supply chainand for technology, OGA director Dr AngelaSeeney life-cycle” part oftheasset is avery natural decommissioning “Ultimately OIL & GAS SURVEY &GAS OIL 23 CHAMBER'S years three next the for required 1skill number the is experience Decommissioning SKILLS RD RD

7 FEATURE | MAY 2016 8 FEATURE | MAY 2016 Dr AngelaSeeney conditions we face” of thediversity of position because a pioneering “The UKisin energy feature of Future of decommissioning. head appointed recently was shipbuilding projects and power, transportation construction, refining, energy, civil engineering, in decommissioning, 35 years’ experience with and of Marathon, Jim Christie, formerly Sea. North Decom and UK Gas from member bodies Oil & representation has also It Authority. the for lead and decommissioning, as technology, supply chain for director OGA Seeney, Angela with Dr Centrica, at Netherlands and UK president vice senior chair Colette Cohen, by industry led is Board Decommissioning UK MER The OGA would like them to retain it? to decommission anasset andthe So what happensifa company wants what thedemandprofile willbe. to give thesupplychainaclear ideaof they need to planmore effectively and estimates to give operators thecontrol approach to decommissioning cost be developing amore consistent She saidanothercriticalelementwould infrastructure boards. and regional development and closely withOGA’s asset stewardship This approach willmeanworking of thesupplychain.” programmes outsowe make best use of scalebutwe canalsopace the regional level sowe gettheadvantages “We could dothingsat anarea hub planned approach. shifting to amuchmore integrated, asset by asset onanadhocbasis, mean, instead ofdoingeverything a more structural basiswhichmight the decommissioning programme on “We want to helpthe market manage the market. avoid creating inflationary hotspotsin interests to rephase theprogramme to want to defer anditisineveryone’s decommission earlier, whileothersmay price slumpcould meanthey want to She explained that for sometheoil effect.” decommissioning andthedomino including late life, andavoid premature through anasset’s wholelifecycle, “The trickisto planmore effectively decommissioning effectively?’ maximising economic recovery while ‘how dowe optimiseourapproach to barrels outthere andthechallengeis date andthere isstill another20billion “We have taken 43billionbarrels to continental shelf. masses ofuntappedpotential intheUK asset base, butalsobecause we have we face andfor thematurity ofour because ofthediversity ofconditions “The UKisinapioneeringposition teeing up.  and certainly its supply chain is and certainly itssupplychainis She stressed theaimisto improve cost decommissioning.” while achieving cost reduction in how we maximiseeconomic recovery we canhave thosedialoguesaround collaboration withtheindustry so in partnership, developing the much more interested inworking “We canusethem,butwe are have. solutions, buildingonthepowers we influencing andpromoting new “The bulkofwhat we doisaround around alternative approaches. “Then we would have adialogue economic recovery.” to achieve ourobjective ofmaximising develop new transformative solutions technologies butalsowork together to not onlyadoptandadaptexisting “We are encouraging theindustry to creativity and make ithappen. acting asamechanismto capture that Technologyand Gas Centre whichare technical institutes suchastheOil have developed andthere are new which operators andthesupplychain “There isalotoftechnology outthere investment inthisarea. and hasabetter basis for making ensure theindustry ismore informed pioneer somechangeswhichwill industry andgovernment butwe can “It hasto work incollaboration with “The OGAcannotdoitby itself. reduction. the industry deliver significant cost decommissioning programme to help pull together avery compelling “I amoptimistic we willbeableto workgroups. Decommissioning Board andinthe keen to beactively involved inour and we have peoplewhoare very operators andthesupplychain are gettinglotsoftraction with “The earlysignsare goodandwe standards. “We are nottalkingaboutdropping environmentally compliant. efficiency while stillbeingsafe and Archer is currently the incumbent contractor for the the for contractor incumbent the currently is Archer two additional two-year extension options remaining. with contract, four-year original the following option first the Statoil exercises as services, drilling platform for contract its of extension atwo-year given been has Limited ARCHER Drilling extension — capabilities. commercial and technical extensive together brings which team integrated an using decommissioning, well for solution end-to-end an offer will collaboration The company, Weatherford. service gas and oil international with alliance astrategic formed also has Exceed 2017. in to start due work wells subsea ofthe phase operational with the few months next the in commence will decommissioning wells platform The abandoned. permanently and plugged be will ofwhich all wells, subsea 16 and wells platform 45 includes programme Fairfield’s Sea well plugging and abandonment campaign. North forthcoming in its Limited Energy Fairfield support to contract a secured has Exceed firm management WELL Well contract — events. ofpromotional aseries and period testing year, initial this an later following basis you-go apay-as- on use public for available made be will cars The awhole. as and North-east the in transport hydrogen-fuelled of use the extending and city the in infrastructure ahydrogen building in step next the as also but vehicles, hydrogen buy and out to try individuals and businesses to encourage only not them, to buy funding Scotland Transport securing SUVs after ix35 Hyundai two unveiled have Co-wheels partner club car and council city The use. public for cars hydrogen-powered offer in to Europe city first the become has ABERDEEN the city Hydrogen for first and Wheels Tony Archer Crockett, Barney left, From News Member platforms under this extension. extension. this under platforms Visund and B, Aand Snorre A, Sleipner Njord, the awarded additionally was and Cplatforms Band A, Statfjord Ewan Swaffield Swaffield Ewan Robin Havles Havles Robin UK product PR manager for Hyundai for manager PR product UK Transport Scotland, regional managingregional director Co- Councillor

9 NEWS | MAY 2016 Opinion Mark Skinner

MAY 2016 Time to move out of

OPINION | | OPINION the comfort zone

JANUARY 2016 saw the first We are in no way turning our back on steps in another overseas the oil & gas industry which has been development for John Bell at the forefront of the success of John Pipeline as we employed our Bell Pipeline since we were established in 1976. business development manager Don Wang, based in Singapore to We are simply looking at ways to cover the ASEAN region. ensure long-term sustainability of the business for the sake of our This followed exactly a year on from stakeholders, by focusing outside our employing Paul Smith, our business usual remit. development manager in Abu Dhabi to develop our presence in the Middle This process has been a huge learning by Mark Skinner, East. curve for me and all others involved. managing director, Aberdeen is an area which has been These were two key moves to establish immersed in oil & gas for so many years John Bell Pipeline our business internationally within the that for some business leaders, this is all oil & gas sector, however within our they know. UK domestic market we saw many opportunities to grow outside oil & gas. It is now time for us to move out of our comfort zone and focus on a long term Internationalisation has been at the plan. forefront of John Bell Pipeline’s growth strategy over the past five years. The UK oil & gas industry is by no means over, the supply chain needs to I have always believed that the be smarter as to how we approach it. key to a company’s success is to be entrepreneurial, be diverse and In my opinion we need to start looking embrace change. at other opportunities where we can use the skills and expertise we have John Bell Pipeline has been exporting already gained from working in such a pipeline equipment for over 20 years to competitive industrial market. various global oil & gas companies. During recent developments, we felt a Over the past 10 years we have seen real challenge ahead of us due to the opportunities to supply our products falling oil price. into other industries such as utilities, nuclear, rail and distilleries. Companies are folding around us, both our suppliers and customers. Being a large stockholding company we supply a wide variety and volume Morale in the oil & gas industry in of product, which puts us in a great Aberdeen is at an all-time low. position to be competitive and supply I believe that those who rise to the cross-industries. challenge and put in extra effort to This allows us to “ride the storm”, so to diversify will reap the benefits and speak, if one particular product line is come out of these tough conditions not exceeding expectations. stronger and more adaptable to change. We can balance that out with another. I think this is something all business We proved this practice could also leaders and managers should embrace. work with our business development and sustainability strategy. Staying positive and being a positive role model to your staff is key. As the company diversifies and grows, we can limit the negative impact on our Positivity filters through the team bottom line by focusing our efforts on resulting in everyone being on board to other developing industries. rise to the challenge.

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12 FEATURE | MAY 2016 Picture courtesy of Norman Adams- City Adams-Aberdeen ofNorman courtesy Picture Council City Aberdeen Sweetnam Richard ofout recession” way trade their businesses to for opportunity really important is a “Exporting innovation soAberdeen accommodates thebrains ofoil within oilandgasthrough advanced technology and term, maximisingeconomic recovery buttransitioning “So abigpiece intheeconomic strategy is,intheshort be demandedaround theworld asother basinsmature. well documented, that tradeable service willcontinue to “As theNorthSeabasinmatures, andthechallengesare for Scotland andfor theUKsupplychain. “This isreally importantfor theNorth-east ofScotland, UK andTrade andInvestment. Development International, Scottish Enterprise, Subsea Scottish Council for Development andIndustry, Scottish Council, Aberdeen &Grampian ChamberofCommerce, Trade Group (NESTG) whichalsoincludesAberdeenshire The council works closely withtheNorthEast ofScotland of anintegrated approach. economic strategy andisnotdoneinisolation butaspart sort ofinternationalisation isakey plankoftheregional development for Aberdeen CityCouncil explains, this However, asRichard Sweetnam, headofeconomic grasp new opportunities. Aberdeen canhelpScottish supplychaincompanies world’s largest gasproducers, andthelinkswith economies, hasthepotential to become oneofthe Mozambique hasoneoftheworld’s fastest growing gas hubbasedontheAberdeen model. capital ofCaboDelgadoprovince -create alocaloiland is underpinnedby anactionplanto helptheport- signed withPemba inMozambique’s North-east which A formal Memorandum ofUnderstanding willshortlybe North-east of Scotland. between thecountry andoilgascompanies inthe Mozambique andhasbeendrivingforward partnerships Aberdeen CityCouncil haslong-standing linkswith east Africa. miles away ontheIndianOcean coast ofsouth- established inplaces like Mozambique, 5,500 and gashubmay well dependonlinksbeing ABERDEEN’S future prosperity asaglobaloil trading doors open that links civic The energy feature of Future  economies growing world’s fastest has oneofthe Mozambique AFRICA MOZAMBIQUE 13 FEATURE | MAY 2016 14 FEATURE | MAY 2016 Aberdeen CityCouncil Richard Sweetnam, cooperative links” by international which are opened and thedoors opportunities capitalise onthe make sure we “We have to energy feature of Future links. links. “It isimportant we act onthesecivic Japanese business andtrade. Glover have hugeresonance with Japan, for example, through Thomas “The civiclinksbetween Aberdeen and global competitors. and trade andanadvantage over in relation to business opportunities Scotland andtheUK further credibility with Pemba willgive Aberdeen, “The memorandum ofunderstanding markets. “Civic linksmeanquite alotinoverseas that isoil andgassector,” saidRichard. outward trade andthefoundation for well above itsweight interms ofthe Aberdeen whichdefinitely punches markets are ofhugeimportance to their way outofrecession andexport opportunity for businesses to trade “Exporting isareally important led adelegation to Aberdeen. Armando EmilionGuebuza,hasalso The former President ofMozambique, partnerships. part ofthedrive to form new trading David Mundellvisited Mozambique as and inFebruary, Scottish Secretary visits between thetwo countries There have beeninward andoutward companies to enter thesemarkets. way for Aberdeen, Scottish andUK over three to five years to pave the work beingcommissioned by UKTI It isexpected thiswillleadto further and associated infrastructure. development oftheirenergy industry Uganda andSouthAfrica onthe and advice to Mozambique, Tanzania, to undertake consultancy support by UKTrade andInvestment (UKTI) infrastructure, hasbeencontracted director ofenterprise planningand Gordon McIntosh, thecouncil’s former next phaseofoilandgasfor thecity.”  and gasallows ashiftinto the Scotland. expertise we have intheNorth-east of in thelong-term we want to anchorthe to trade theirway outofrecession and “We are tryingto incentivise companies understanding. links suchasmemorandums of opened by international cooperative opportunities andthedoorswhichare to make sure we capitaliseonthe makers to trade overseas andwe have practitioners isto supportthejob- “The joboftheeconomic development City Region Deal.” really important andakey plankofthe like harbours, like digitalconnectivity is international infrastructure like airports, the UKbalance ofpayments andthat Aberdeen make ahugecontribution to “Oil andgasexports from theUKand access to theseinternational markets. of Aberdeen Harbourinterms ofour expansion andtheplannedexpansion of projects like the£20millionairport from acompetitiveness pointofview, “I would alsoflagtheimportance, sector. forefront oftheenergy, oilandgas to maintainAberdeen’s place at the just onepiece inthe20-year plan missions are very importantbutare “International trade activitieslike trade appropriate. them to realise thoseplanswhere understanding andwe are supporting developed through memorandums of from strong strategic alliances companies continue to benefit that Aberdeen andAberdeenshire “The challengeisto make sure also food and drink. region -andnotjust oilandgasbut export activitycomes outofthecity of Aberdeen andahugeamountof acknowledge theinternational nature UK andtheScottish governments unique inthesensethat boththe “The Aberdeen CityRegion Dealis customs compliance and storage. They will also manage manage also will They storage. and compliance customs waste management, inventory and materials management, quayside handling, local transport, cargo carrying units and to relating with support to BP provide continue will ASCO ofSandnessjøen. base northerly the in services further as well as Farsund, and Tananger in support providing Norway, across delivered be will contract services supply The Norway. in contract ofasignificant renewal the announced has ASCO success ASCO Norwegian for — Gullfaks and Oseberg fields. the for support engineering and services maintenance operations, ofdrilling provision the for is contract The Shelf. Continental Norwegian the on Statoil’s platforms sevenof for contract drilling the retained has Deutag KCA contractor engineering and drilling INTERNATIONAL KCA Statoil retains contract Deutag — &Gill. atMearns forward driving for synergies many brings by 2005, in Wolseley acquired and 1900 in founded business, own of his family experience Michael’s &heating. plumbing of distributor local the Wilson, with William director commercial was &Gill Mearns to joining prior role Michael’s February. in director managing as joining after sum undisclosed an for company the acquired has Wilson Michael ownership. in achange undergone has year this business in years 80 celebrates which &Gill, Mearns Aberdeen-based agency, SCOTLAND’S longest-established creative marketing New &Gill owner Mearns for Mearns Alan Robertson, Suzanne News Member management. material and logistics/marine, aviation, within services and Michael Wilson Michael www.agcc.co.uk E T receive the goods. will bemade until they sure that no payment and the buyer be can that they will bepaid, guarantee to the seller credit. Thisa offer can ...with aletter of exporting... risksthe in Reduce 01224 343900 [email protected] Electrical Solutions Worldwide Solutions Electrical Ltd Business development manager Iain Dougary job.” next the on discussions now we’re in success, by this boosted and week last payment business received“Our full smoothly. went all it sure made which Chamber, the complete thisprocess without to have able been “We wouldn’t their input and guidance. appreciate we really and process credit of letter the through us supported Chamber “The 15 NEWS | MAY 2016 Opinion John Deffenbaugh MAY 2016 Transforming Aberdeen OPINION | | OPINION International Airport

AIRPORT construction, terminal extension, will commence in particularly the redevelopment late summer. of an existing terminal, is among While this is a wonderful opportunity, the most complex of construction it presents technical challenges that projects. are inherent in any airport terminal redevelopment. The vast range of technical standards, legislative requirements and logistical In order to create space for the new challenges, let alone designing extension, it will be necessary to something that looks that part, has temporarily relocate baggage reclaim kept me awake on numerous occasions to sites elsewhere. since my first role at London Heathrow. by John Deffenbaugh, But it’s worth it. Domestic reclaim will be head of capital, accommodated on the terminal's front During eight years of walking through forecourt and international reclaim will Aberdeen International Airport airport terminals every day, I have seen be situated on the airside apron. couples kiss each other farewell, friends welcome each other home, and even These temporary facilities will come helped an excited Olympian carry a into use later this month for a period of pole vault through customs on her way approximately a year. to the 2012 games. International passengers will clear Airports are the backdrops to some immigration and collect baggage within of the most poignant moments we’ll the temporary facility. encounter and have a sense of energy Friends and family meeting that is second to none. international passengers should wait Several years of record passenger in the same location within the main numbers have placed considerable terminal as they do currently, this will pressure on every aspect of Aberdeen not change. International Airport’s facilities. The arrivals route for domestic While the situation has become less passengers will be largely unaltered. pronounced recently due to the global Passengers should exit the terminal drop in oil price, the airport team building and the temporary baggage recognises that a development plan is reclaim will be just 10 seconds walk required to cater for passenger growth away. over the coming decades. Airport staff will be on hand to provide We were therefore delighted to assistance as these new facilities bed in. announce an investment of over £20million earlier this year to Within the next three years, comprehensively transform the airport. Aberdeen International Airport will be transformed into a facility fit for the 21st Spread over three years, the project century. will double the size of security search, immigration, and baggage reclaim My personal goal is to deliver an airport and create an exciting new retail terminal that our passengers and environment in the departure lounge. region can be proud of. Work is already underway to divert Keep an eye on the airport website and underground utilities and Phase 1, social media channels for the latest the construction of a new 5,800sqm information during this exciting time.

16 New Zealand. New and Australia across areas regional and key in metropolitan branches total of100 grown to since a has and 1951 in Australia in established was Group Programmed Group. Programmed and Group Skilled counterparts Australian oftheir 2015 October in merger the following International, Programmed become has firm, recruitment &gas oil an International, SKILLED Programmed becomes Skilled — us.” for extension product anatural was lockers patient and tables over bed chairs, as such furniture care move patient provide to the “so, also Campbell, Colin director managing says furniture,” office ofquality aprovider as known is “Langstane agreement. framework their under delivered has firm the which contract single largest the is contract tendered competitively this but years, nine for Scotland in NHS the to furniture office supplying been has Langstane block. administration the and centre learning and teaching the hospital, children’s the complex; hospital the within buildings in atthree total pieces individual 20,000 installed and provided firm The . in Hospital University Elizabeth Queen new the to furniture patient and office to supply deal -a£1.6million history sevendecade its in contract value highest the completed LANGSTANE, Scotland’s largest independent office products company, has Patient success Langstane for News Member Langstane managing director, Colin Campbell, Page 22 Brian Wilson column INTO FOCUS NIGG BAY VISIONCOMING 17 NEWS | MAY 2016 AAB Monthly opinion May 2016 Is 85 the new 65? AAB MONTHLY OPINION |

If you are lucky enough to be couldn’t retire until age 85 to achieve a member of a Final Salary pension Gold Standard pension which kept up scheme you may be aware with inflation and could be passed to that the maximum the scheme their spouse. Targeting just 50% of pre- retirement income means they could can provide is 2/3rds of your retire at 80, and if that pension had no by Simon Glazier, pre-retirement income, which inflation protection or spouses benefit Head of Wealth represents the Government’s then they could retire at 75. ‘Gold Standard’ of pension Services at Anderson provision. Steve Webb had been pursuing a Anderson & Brown LLP policy of ‘auto-escalation’ of pension For those in personal pensions contributions at the time he left provided by our employers, targeting office, whereby pension members will this income in retirement also increase their contribution level by 1% represents the Gold Standard, but every year up to retirement. The idea is research by pension provider Royal popular in the USA, with the suggestion London suggests that it could be being that if employees are benefiting unachievable for many if they are from an average of 3% per annum pay dependent upon Auto Enrolment rises, if 1% of that is directed towards pension contributions alone. their pension they will still experience Former pensions minister Steve Webb a pay rise but will be setting aside has warned of ‘the death of retirement’ more for retirement at the same time. as a result of low private pension Although not high on the government’s contribution rates. agenda, it’s still a good idea for individuals to consider. It’s a huge step forward for so many more employees to have access to In years when you experience a pay rise pensions through Auto Enrolment, why not direct some of this towards but minimum contribution levels are your pension? The discipline of pension currently set at just 2% of salary shared planning is to save regularly, and the between the employee and employee, easiest way is to do this is to put money rising to 5% and then 8% in April 2018 into your pension before you receive it, and 2019 respectively. that way you’ll never miss it. Ask your employer to increase your pension According to Royal London, someone contribution and you won’t even notice with double the average wage, it going...you might then have the contributing these minimum amounts, chance of retiring before age 85!

18 operations support. and management integrity asset services, engineering covers subsea It years. two by extended be and may five of years period afixed has contract The gas fields. and oil subsea atBP-operated services management project and engineering to deliver agreement framework aglobal secured has Solutions AKER Aker contract BP wins — possible." previously been not had that to locations food quality high of deliveries to execute finely-timed logistics and technology –we use unique is model business “Our said: manager, general Deliveroo Hazlehurst, Caroline Byron. and YO! Sushi, Wagamama, including restaurants chain with premium along Soul, and Nargile, Kitchen, Adelphi The including restaurants local of high-end with anumber relationships established has Deliveroo Aberdeen, in arriving Since year. next the within it expands as jobs further creating anticipates far, so and city the in jobs 65 created has globally, growth month-on-month 25% delivering is and 2013 in London in founded was company, which The period. trial asuccessful after Aberdeen in launched officially has service, delivery food apremium DELIVEROO, Deliveroo arrives Aberdeen in News Member has created 65 jobs in the city the in jobs 65 created has Premium food delivery service Deliveroo 19 NEWS | MAY 2016 20 FEATURE | MAY 2016 energy feature of Future £23billion annual turnover Emerson in numbers in Emerson customers. customers. to provide innovative solutionsfor its technology andengineeringtogether manufacturing company whichbrings Today Emersonisadiversified global and Alexander Meston. years agoby Scottish brothers Charles was founded inSt Louis, Missouri 126 It ispartoftheEmersongroup which Management’s success. the heartofEmersonProcess It istheseobjectives that are at reliability. productivity andimprove safety standards, increase industry to cutcosts, maintain pressure thanintheoilandgas NOWHERE isthere greater Investing future in the £20million 111,000 employees investment its clients with a more unified portfolio its clientswithamore unifiedportfolio which willenableEmersonto support Scotland, believes itisatimelymove and MarkBoyes, business director The officialopening waslast month Airport. Business Park adjacent to Aberdeen moving into anewD2 office onthe long term supportfor theindustry by 30 years buthasdemonstrated its services to theNorthSeafor around been providing technology and Emerson Process Managementhas in 150countries. $23billion andemploys around 111,000 It hasanannualturnover ofmore than effectively. using theirexisting systems more introducing innovative ideas,butby of services andhelpthemby notonly countries 150 built facility. to consolidate alloperations into onepurpose- longer fit for purpose soadecision was made He explained that theprevious facilities were no people, training andsupportservices.” therefore provides easy access to Emerson “It isalsoatransit pointfor ourcustomers and technicians work offshore. because themajorityofourengineersand “The actualsite was selected neartheairport operating inthearea,” hesaid. Emerson businesses whichwere already “We builtthenew facility to housethefour Around 80office staff have the moved into capability oftools they may already have.” “We want to helpourcustomers realise the centres whichisnotfully utilised. offshore assets and inonshore operation “There isalotofinstalled technology on automation technology. “That isnotjust providing leading-edge the longerterm. current needsbutalsowhat they willneedin that itwill notonlyservice ourcustomers’ investment andwe have worked hard to ensure “The new facility represents a£20million more effectively andefficiently. “We want to beableto provide ourservices Emerson Process Management business director Scotland, Mark Boyes, climate" change inthecurrent better andbeopento “We allhave to dothings our objectives inmany ways.” “When theeconomics changeditreinforced customers. our “We neededto bebetter intheway we service even more relevant. price slumpbutthat hasmadethedecision before theoilandgas industry was hitby the He saidthat thenew buildingwas planned focus onwhat really requires to bedone.” which there isnoproblem, technicians can involves tryingto maintainsomethingwith rather thanfollow aprescribed schedulewhich monitor thehealthof particularassets so, “We have wireless sensorswhich are ableto scheduling. operators to improve preventative maintenance He saidthat Emersoncould, for example, help change inthecurrent climate.” “We allhave to dothingsbetter andbeopento ideas andimprovement. and experiences whichwillhelpthemdrive new knowledge withcolleagues, discussing issues they canspendmore timesharingtheir the new buildinghasbeendesignedsothat have spentvery littletimeintheoffice but Mark saidthat historically theoffshore staff engineers. similar numberofoffshore technicians and new buildingbutEmersonalsoemploys a Details onpage25 WITH THECHAMBER CUT YOUR FUELCOSTS 21 FEATURE | MAY 2016 Business Bites

MAY 2016 Nigg Bay vision coming into focus OPINION | | OPINION by Brian Wilson

LET’S hope that, by the end of Unusually, because there are both summer, there will be a positive marine and land-based elements to the conclusion to the process which project, Aberdeen Harbour has had to can lead to the expansion of pursue three separate consultations with three different organisatons – Aberdeen Harbour into Nigg Bay. Transport Scotland, Marine Scotland It remains to be seen if further and Aberdeen City Council. unwelcome hurdles will then appear, but In spite of the complexities, the Harbour that would not be good economic news Board pays tribute to the efficiency for the city or region. with which these channels have been The Nigg Bay vision was launched in navigated. 2012 and the Aberdeen Harbour Board Even with this triple process, residents has put a huge amount of work into the can still complain about a lack of complex business of advancing it as information and consultation. rapidly as possible. Would a shorter, more unified system of With a fair wind, it will become reality by consultation and decision-making not 2020. serve everyone better? In the interim, there has already been a This is a major project and others may seismic change in economic conditions not face the same degree of complexity. affecting the city and region. But we need always be mindful of the If it was important before for Aberdeen possibility that competitors can move to consolidate its position as a fast to grasp economic opportunities. competitive centre for the global oil and gas industry, then it is crucial now. When Nigg Bay was put forward as preferred option in 2012, one stated Even more urgently, the inevitability of a purpose was to service offshore decommissioning boom – for someone windfarms. - is bearing down. As of now, there are no offshore In terms of jobs and onshore business, Brian Wilson windfarms to service, with only the that could be as big as anything which Beatrice project likely to happen. looks at the has gone before, according to the more issues facing optimistic estimates. The only other which secured funding, Neart na Gaoithe off the coast, North-east Adversity in the offshore industry will waited five years for planning approval business. A thus create a massive opportunity – but from the Scottish Government – and journalist and it is by no means certain that Scotland was then kicked into the Court of former Labour will get the benefit. Session by the RSPB for judicial review. MP, he held five The early signs are that ports and yards It may just run out of time. ministerial posts further south are in the front line for In the same timeframe, the English decommissioning. including UK system approved 17 offshore Energy Minister. Before that pattern becomes windfarms. So they have an onshore He is now a established, it is vital that clear industry and we don’t. messages should go out about our UK Business What every developer wants is an ability and intent to compete effectively. Ambassador, answer within a reasonable timescale A positive decision on Aberdeen and chairman and the Scottish planning system is not Harbour is vital. of Harris Tweed fully geared to that, even when time Hebrides It is inevitable that a project of this scale may not be on our side. will involve consultation on many fronts Aberdeen Harbour Board has navigated and there are genuine questions to be the system with great efficiency and answered. now only a final decision is awaited. 22 From there she will head on to her ultimate destination ofTakoradi, Ghana. destination ultimate to on her head will she From there to Le Traitjourney France. in a44-hour on ofdeparting ahead industry, gas and oil the for modules buoyancy to load Aberdeen in stop ashort made vessel cargo the long, At 168.65metres port. to the enter vessel longest the it became as Harbour, Aberdeen for milestone another marked Janeiro de Rio HHL ofthe visit recent THE vesselBrazilian arrives atlength — care. social and health childcare, support, technical hardware development, software engineering, in apprenticeships these to deliver College the allow will bid successful The atschool. still while period over atwo-year theory academic with related along setting in a workplace skills sector-specific to gain opportunity the pupils secondary senior offers scheme Apprenticeship Foundation The Aberdeenshire. and City Aberdeen across with schools partnership in Apprenticeships of Foundation anumber to pilot Scotland Development Skills from funding £120,000 secured has College Scotland East NORTH scheme Nescol apprenticeship pilots — line. production ofthe automation the to complete 2016 during planned £250,000 with afurther programme investment ofacontinual part is This laboratory. the in capacity the doubling line, machine asecond installed also has company The to have capability. this manufacturer lens prescription Scotland-based only it the making facility, coating in-house a£500,000 including site, the for equipment manufacturing optical &Todd state-of-the-art in invested has Duncan Fund). Growth (Business of BGF to support the thanks Aberdeen, in laboratory at its refurbishment ofa£1.3million completion the following expansion for poised is &Todd Group, ofDuncan division manufacturing lens the Optical, CALEDONIAN investment toLens expansion leads News Member coast of Orkney, Scotland. ofOrkney, coast the off located currently Boreas, Safe vessel, accommodation Prosafe’s semi-submersible quarter complex on board customised temporary living of a maintenance routine and commissioning installation, supply, manufacture, engineering, design, the for solution end-to-end an provide will company The more than £1million. worth with Prosafe contract a awarded been has Rentals HB specialist workspace and accommodation OFFSHORE Complex contract whole ofScotland”. whole the across advice investment specialist delivering in strength “its for firm the commended The independent judging panel categories. Agency Industrial and Office the in nominated also was Ryden and sector property teams in Scotland’s commercial and businesses buildings, best the event recognises The Awards.Property Scottish annual Year third the from Team ofthe Agency Investment of title the home took RYDEN title takes Ryden Duncan &Todd Duncan managing director, Frances Duncan, HHL Rio de Janeiro de Rio HHL already doing this. doing already those for recognition offers and development and retainment recruitment, in organisation the supports which practice good atthe award looks The succeed. to opportunity the give them and people in potential the realise companies athow looks IIYP people. of young retention and recruitment employer’s an on focuses management standard which people only the Accreditation, Young in Investors the People achieved has Centre Conference and Exhibition ABERDEEN Young people accolade for AECC Page 35 Steve Walker Business Lessons I've Learned social interaction" spaces to encourage better "I'd like to improve public 23 NEWS | MAY 2016 Opinion Sam Gomersall MAY 2016 Is natural gas the energy OPINION | | OPINION bridge for the UK?

DESPITE widespread views that replaced with unabated gas power gas plays a key role in the energy plants. transition, unabated gas cannot Building new CCGT (combined cycle act as a bridge to a low carbon gas turbine) gas-fired power stations economy in the UK. with CCS could bridge the transition to a low carbon economy, delivering power There has been much made of the whilst enabling CO2 emissions reduction potential to reduce emissions through targets to be met. closures of old unabated coal fired power stations in favour of new unabated gas The cost for this is expected to be power plants. comparable with offshore wind and new nuclear. by Sam Gomersall, Current UK government energy policy is commercial director, clearly pushing a switch from coal to gas Under these conditions, with CCS, UK Pale Blue Dot Energy for electrical power generation, including gas consumption could be as high as the potential for unlocking onshore shale 40-50Bcm/yr. gas. CCS also presents the potential to Natural gas is also currently the primary decarbonise industrial emissions which source of energy for domestic heating in cannot be decarbonised by other means. the UK. This will support the retention of some Although natural gas has the lowest heavy industry in the UK. combustion carbon intensity of the three major fossil fuels, it is still a significant Furthermore, CCS can enable large scale source of CO2 when burned. hydrogen generation to be used as a clean alternative to natural gas to provide The 2008 Climate Change Act makes low carbon domestic heating. it UK government duty to ensure CO2 emissions in 2050 are 80% lower than Market investments in new power those in 1990. generation are currently challenging. In 2015 at the Paris Climate Conference, Unabated gas power has been the UK and another 190 countries agreed considered one of the safest investment a target to reduce carbon emissions, options. reducing the global average temperature With climate change political and rise below 2degC, with a target of legislative risk, this is no longer the case; achieving 1.5degC. unless a parallel CCS project is included. In order to meet these climate change If we are to meet our climate change obligations, UK CO2 emissions must be obligations we need to either phase reduced and new sources of CO2 cannot out natural gas power generation and be built. natural gas for heating or progress the In November 2015, the UK government implementation of CCS with immediate withdrew funding for two CCS projects; effect. one of which was planned at Peterhead Unabated gas is part of the problem, not using natural gas. part of the solution. If Carbon Capture and Storage (CCS) is The time has come to look beyond not progressed, then the use of natural unabated gas and implement CCS or gas must be phased out entirely by phase out gas. 2050; something that won’t happen if all unabated coal power plants are simply Unabated gas cannot act as a bridge to a low carbon economy in the UK.

24 the greater Grampian region," said Peter. said region," Grampian greater the and Aberdeenshire from coming ofthat with 95% sourced, Scottish is we use produce of the cent per “Seventy industry. the in players established to creative start-ups from Grampian, across businesses from drink and food in innovation awardscelebrated The House Hotel. Ardoe Mercure awards atAberdeen’s Innovation Food Year ofthe Grampian atthe title Entrepreneur &Drink Food Grampian the won Limited, ofEntier CEO Bruce, PETER Entier — competence. and atwork health as topics to such relation in particularly businesses, facing challenges the on focusing organisations by two the hosted jointly conference Ltd a following Specialist with Quensh agreement apartnership signed has Council Safety British THE partnership Quensh — sector. third the from chamber ofany British President first the and AGCC, ofthe history year 160 the in President female first -the ofCommerce Chamber Grampian and Aberdeen of the President appointed was Edel year Last organisation’s reach across Scotland. the extending as well as services, care social quality high of provider apioneering as reputation its maintain and to grow to continue Cornerstone enabled has strategy ambitious Edel’s conditions, market challenging Despite region’s achieving highest directors. the recognises which category, the in triumphed Harris Edel 2016. Awards Scotland Year of Directors the Institute atthe title of Director Grampian and Aberdeen the won Cornerstone, charity, care social executive ofScottish chief THE year of the Director Edel Harris, News Member drink companies on our doorstep." and offood innovation and quality the in believe firmly "We CEO, Cornerstone CEO, #WellConnected or call Visit membership of Chamber Make most the on average average on litre per 5p save to up national prices national membership with Chamber costs petrol & diesel www.agcc.co.uk 01224 343915

25 NEWS | MAY 2016 26 NEWS | MAY 2016 China WIne & Spirits Awards &Spirits WIne China the at gold won whisky Bull Black News Member and the only one from Scotland. from one only the and year this top into 40 the to break universities sevenUK ofonly one satisfaction, student for overall 38th came RGU UK the In of Oxford. University the alongside facilities, ofits quality the for UK the in equal third ranked also was RGU of . University and St Andrews behind Scotland in experience student best third the providing as RGU ranked Survey Experience Student UK Education Higher Times The UK. the and Scotland both in experiences student best ofthe with one students its providing as University Gordon Robert recognised has UK the in survey A NATIONAL experienceStudent recognised atRGU — players.” big the alongside level global a on compete can whiskies our shows and to back-to-back win accolades major are “These said: Taylor Co, Whisky Scotch ofDuncan chairman Shand, Euan Islay. from ofmalts blend a Smoke, Big The did as award, scotch agold won blended 12-year-old Bull Black Competition. World Spirits Francisco San awards atthe gold two won has Huntly in Taylor Company year,this Whisky Scotch Duncan Awards earlier &Spirits Wine China atthe success gold double FOLLOWING Whiskies take gold and gas clients, both existing and new." and existing both clients, gas and to oil commitment our highlighting as well as have in-house we experience and to expertise the adds This Citrus:Mix. strengthens which acquisition an to have completed delighted are “We said: Smith Paul director Managing company. of the evolution the in stage important at an ofCitrus:Mix capacity and capabilities the expands addition the services, ofER provision the in established well Already clients. sector ofenergy base existing to astrong operators gas and oil Sea North five adds and to Citrus:Mix members staff specialist oftwo transfer the includes deal The sum. undisclosed an for &Gill Mearns agency city of fellow (ER) division response emergency the purchased has business Aberdeen-based The with akey growth for acquisition. ambitions its underlined has Citrus:Mix agency communications INTEGRATED acquisitionCitrus:Mix — same period. the during firm accountancy any other double than more 2015, in 47 transactions completed AAB that shows market deals Scottish review ofthe Insider's Business Scottish The –2015. 2005 from year each Scotland in deals most the completed having accountants the as Insider Business byScottish the recognised year, being consecutive after 11th the for 2015 in Scotland in top dealmaker the as named been has &Brown LLP Anderson ANDERSON Top dealmaker

WEALTH MANAGEMENT

Auto Enrolment considerations for Directors The issue of pensions Auto Enrolment remains an the shareholders, or under a service agreement with the important as many small businesses are now just reaching company which may give an entitlement to a salary or the point where this legislation applies to them. bonus. A grey area concerning Auto Enrolment centres on married Neither arrangement requires a contract of employment couples running their own business. If both happen to be in place. The first is equally consistent with there being no directors and there are no other employees, the company contract at all, and the second is equally consistent with will only have Auto Enrolment duties if both have contracts there being a contract to provide work or services which of employment. It’s simple to determine whether a written is not a contract of employment. So the fact that there are contract of employment is in place, but how about implied earnings going through PAYE, subject to tax and NIC, does contracts of employment? Could payment of a token wage not mean necessarily that the director has a contract of e.g. £5,000 be viewed by The Pensions Regulator as an employment with the company. implied contract? It should be added that a Director cannot be a personal At the highest level a contract of employment is an services worker (i.e. a Director not working under an agreement whereby a worker agrees to perform specific employment contract is never classed as a worker) - duties for the employer in return for an agreed wage or Ultimately it is down to each business owner/director salary. The argument is often made that as a director pays to assess the circumstances and make a reasonable tax and National Insurance contributions (NIC) through judgement taking all details into account, documenting the PAYE, they must be ‘employed’ by the company. However decision and how it was reached. liability for income tax and NIC through PAYE arises both Jonathan Craig is Head of Corporate Services at on employed earnings and earnings from an office. Acumen Financial Planning and advises business Directors may vote themselves remuneration in two ways owners on all aspects of Auto Enrolment and Workplace – under Companies Act rules where remuneration (taking Pensions. He can be contacted on 01224 392350 or the form of salary or bonus) is passed by resolution of [email protected]

JUNE PREVIEW The June Business Bulletin focuses on skills

The next generation: meet the teacher giving leadership lessons to secondary pupils

Training in troubled times: the importance of continuing to develop staff skills Promote your Long live the office:the new global trend business in our of "co-working" patents advertising feature can blended learning engage your Going online: T 01224 343900 workforce? E [email protected]

LANDS ON DESKS AND IN RECEPTIONS START OF JUNE

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Opinion Claire Kinloch MAY 2016 Committing to OPINION | | OPINION an open culture

THERE are many references in highlighted what seemed at the time to business to companies needing be numerous areas of improvement and to have an open culture but my inefficiencies. view is that this needs to stretch Some might say that it’s safer to protect beyond a talking shop, to true employees by not talking openly about transparency. problems, but I think digging into and discussing the detail behind the things My personal experience is that being that need improving is the best way to open, good or bad, can have a turn things into positive opportunities. significantly positive impact on your business, while keeping people in the However the process and resulting dark is highly limiting, if not dangerous. impact could not have been achieved by Claire Kinloch, without the whole team being involved. owner and managing director, Telling people how it is can enable you Genoa Black to encourage your team to act upon My argument for committing to an situations quickly, and ultimately help fix open culture is further supported by the things. significant teamwork I see from sharing and talking about our challenges. If a business is going through a challenging time financially, explaining Testament to this is that we now discuss why it has come about means you topical “issues” – our own or those of our are able to ask them to change their clients, at every team meeting. behaviour and actions to help solve the Recently this has led to some incredible problem. and insightful proactive client ideas that Last year, I did exactly that with my team have enabled the team to realise the true when we needed to bolster our new power of their collective intellect and business drive – the result was that we creativity. exceeded our own expectations in a very Without a doubt, the preparation short space of time. involved in sharing business “truths” Many would argue that sharing negative requires time and energy and it would news could engender fear, but if be far easier to simply ignore them. you invest time and thought in your But for me, watching a team absorb communication you can manage this. candid, sometimes difficult-to-hear I also believe that people deserve the information and then spending time truth and an appreciation that every turning problems into amazing, often business goes through ups and downs is exciting opportunities is the most a key learning point for every employee, satisfying part of my job. at every level. Leadership is often cited as requiring Equally, only by sharing the truth with vulnerability but this word wrongly has a your team are you able to truly see the negative connotation. benefit of their creativity. The truth - good or bad - shouldn’t be Asking them for help encourages them avoided, but shared, constantly. to generate new ideas, empowers them It shouldn’t be shamefully hidden from to think differently and helps you tap the masses, but used constructively to into their knowledge at the coal face. our advantage to move things forward, Last month, we spent some time as a remain competitive and help us all reach team looking at our internal process and our potential.

30 and the company’s growth. company’s the and services its for demand increased Terrace an for to cater at1Albyn premises new obtained also has business The globally. ofindustry to sectors all services suite ofHR its offer and to expand company the allows acquisition The Partnerships. Business ACCORD to re-branded and acquired been has solutions payroll and ofHR aprovider Services, Accord Employment BON New ACCORD for look — destinations. and providers accommodation top travel operators, their voting for teams, editorial newspapers’ the as well as public, with the categories into 15 separated awardsare The world. the across services tourism travel in and best the year, 28th celebrates its ceremony, in now annual The Travel Observer Awards. and Guardian atthe title Ferry” “Best the won Ferries NORTHLINK ferry best judged Northlink — admissible. was evidence some whether and to convict of evidence sufficiency the concerned and case embezzlement an in appeal involved acriminal to students set the problem The School. Law atthe students undergraduate Kyle, both Lauren and Carey Georgia was RGU from team winning The students. and of academics acourtroom and Stirling Alison Sheriff ofAberdeen's front in debate legal alively in engaged rivals student The Court. Sheriff atAberdeen other each against wits their pit university each from ateam match saw derby LLP, annual by the Brodies Sponsored top. out coming team -with RGU's Competition Mooting City Granite annual the in head head-to- went universities Gordon Robert and Aberdeen from LAW students amoot point Debating — incomes. modest on key workers include which ofneeds, at arange targeted rent for housing manage own and build, will company partnership The by 2017. homes 2,030 to (SIP) build Plan Infrastructure Strategic authority's local the in acommitment follows deal The city. the in housing of shortage the address and Aberdeen in housing ofaffordable supply in the change” “step a deliver to help will and first, aScottish is which company liability ofalimited formation the see will deal partnership £300million The People. for Places developer housing and Council City by Aberdeen signed deal alandmark following Aberdeen in built are be to houses affordable new 1,000 ADDITIONAL AN homes affordable 1,000 City to build News Member team as executive as directors. team the have joined MacKenzie Donald and Batten Audrey Aberdeen City Council leader Council City Aberdeen People for Places Cowans David group chief executive chief executive group and Jenny Laing 31 NEWS | MAY 2016 Opinion Jennifer Linton MAY 2016 Starting a business

OPINION | | OPINION was the best thing we’ve ever done

STARTING up a business is always We proactively encourage our staff to extremely challenging, especially attend internal and external training when there are already extremely opportunities, as well as competitions, well established businesses in the awards, exhibitions or seminars, ensuring the staff morale and development of our area. staff is at the heart of our business. However, with the trend of new-start Working under pressure has been business rising in Aberdeen, and the need something both Joanna and I have had for something unique and quirky in the to adapt to, especially with our names on city centre, we decided to launch Linton & by Jennifer Linton, the door. creative director, Mac about six months ago. We are extremely lucky to have such high Linton & Mac Working in partnership with my business quality, loyal, staff and with their help the partner, Joanna MacDonald, our time as business has flourished in its first four business owners may seem to be short, months and we now employ a team of 15 however, with our extensive knowledge staff. and understanding of how our industry functions, we believe we can push our Training and development is another key salon to be a leader in our sector. factor to business success. One key to success for the business By introducing a number of important would be that both Joanna and myself industry professionals to the team, as well drive forward with the same outlook and as hosting industry events and inviting passion for success within the industry. industry leaders and influencers to the salon, this has ensured Linton & Mac’s By bringing something new to the city, staff morale and training is of the highest we were sure the business would be of standards. successful, and by using platforms such as social media, PR, and marketing, Trends are huge in the hairdressing and the business has gained a huge loyal barbering industry, and with key training following, attracting a number of key the team can ensure their skills are up-to- industry professionals to the salon. date, keeping clientele happy. Owning a business means that every day Looking forward, we have a number is a learning curve. of industry professionals scheduled to come to the salon for training and With challenges such as employing staff, workshops, and after the success of our managing company accounts, supervising recent collaboration with the Great British the business’s everyday needs, as well as Barbers Bash, we anticipate that these catering for clients and promoting the other events will also be very popular. business it is important to stay focused and have key goals in place to achieve. With the ambition to be seen as industry leaders in our craft, the business Learning to work as a cohesive team has will continue to pursue innovative been exciting, especially with regards opportunities in bringing something fresh to managing people and advancing to the city. individual employee development.

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34 NEWS | MAY 2016 some stark statistics. statistics. stark some -with of2016 to prospects the forward looks and 2015 from data collates Report Activity Market Office Aberdeen The Frank. by Knight study published to anewly according storm, aperfect faces sector property commercial city’s the as levels have record hit market office Aberdeen the in occupiers for INCENTIVES storm” “perfect faces property Commercial News Member marketplace and attracting more social investment capital. capital. investment social more attracting and marketplace key toUS the growing been has methodology The sector. third into the investment more bring and diligence due accelerate to US help by the in investors used are Ratings performance. financial and impact tosocial its relation in of aCDFI, strength ofthe indication to an provide used is tool ratings CDFI Aeris’ to good,” do capital of“guiding aim the With and sponsorship from RBS. with support process ratings Aeris the initiated SIS available. rating highest second –the rating AAA2 an achieved has SIS ofany kind, to arating US receive the (CDFI) outside Institution Financial Development Community first the As Aeris. service ratings US-based leading from rating UK credit a to receive in the provider finance responsible first the become has (SIS) Scotland Investment Social sector third to Scotland’s lender LEADING Social Investment Scotland — clients." ofour behalf on one this through to working committed are we Frank Knight and at past the in cycles difficult through have been market Aberdeen involved the ofus in “Those 2015. in Aberdeen in faced we what is exactly that and hurdle a significant represents supply in increase with an coupled demand in afall any market “In said: Shearer Eric partner Frank Knight levels. ever towards highest the climbed of Scotland North-east the in levels supply as time same atthe 2015 in tumbled accommodation office for demand industry, gas and oil the across cuts swingeing and prices oil ofdeclining face the In year. on year volumes investment in fall 82% an and space office of take-up in the fall 61% a include figures Headline Knight Frank Knight partner, Eric Shearer, master planning. and management project planning, with space together fullarchitectural offers service TCD disciplines. various from construction professionals highly qualified, experienced together bring company The Aberdeen. in based practice architecture accredited RIAS and aRIBA is Architects TCD 1963, in Founded TCD Architects associate director, Walker, Steve learned I’ve lessons Business What makes leader? What agood thinking. company’s the refresh to graduates recent and experience work employs regularly TCD abundance. in have these people - younger differently to think ability the and motivation being ofwhich two industry, this in to successful be required key many are qualities There ones. ofolder experience and expertise with the ideas their blending and minds ofyounger enthusiasm and imagination into the We by this tapping do norm. ofthe perceptions our by challenging profession AT our in to unique TCD, be we try do, unique? makesWhat your company, you what and Consistently pushing our creative boundaries and seeking new new seeking and creative boundaries our pushing Consistently developments. and technology new on updated them keeping (CPD) courses, Development Professional Continuous regular complete to encouraged also are flow. The team creative juices the From there team. ofthe byrest the idea an running then and something seeing screen, computer by acolleague’s walking as simple as –it’s sessions brainstorming and discussions regular atTCD by holding thinking innovative Iencourage business. ofour core atthe and ofarchitecture, core atthe is Innovation your within from company? How you do generateinnovative thinking team. the among avision directing and ideas implementing ofsuccessfully capable be should leader agood Finally opportunities. with development them providing and accordingly tasks those –delegating weaknesses and strengths aperson’s to identify able be should leader good a Additionally, ofdecision-making. akey is part them evaluate and analyse and ideas, Taking to time hear team. the to their listen to ability the has but firm is who someone be should Aleader leader. to agreat be required qualities many are There planning. master architectural –including oflife walk every almost in elements important are discussion and other. Interaction each among debate and converse and meet, can people where available places open vibrant I’d more like to lost. see being is discussion aresult as today and technology on dependent and introverted increasingly becoming are People interaction. social better to encourage I’d spaces like to improve public why? would what and be it Scotland, North-east wouldtomorrow benefit that you happen If could thing make one game. ofthe ahead and TCD how touch in stays –that’s opportunities 35 BUSINESS LESSONS | MAY 2016 36 POLICY | MAY 2016 Update Policy @chambertalk conversation the Join trade agreement might be negotiated negotiated be might agreement trade anew that assumed be it could rules with EU comply already standards However, trading UK that given event ofaBrexit. the in introduced be could that barriers trade the about concerned very understandably - are firms drink and food as –such export to tendency with ahigh Members internationally. to think propensity increased their to and aversion risk of business’s result asimple is We this think EU. to the want in stay to inclined more are North-east the in members that suggest surveys Our happening. that on rely we shouldn’t suggests History 23. June on referendum the in decision informed if voters to an are make uncertainties these to address to campaigns the up it is that is conclusion natural The EU. the from import and export currently they whether and sector their on depends highlight members Typically, ofuncertainty areas the businesses. vote have will their Remain on aLeave or impact the about indicated that they are unsure membersCHAMBER have it's complicated ... EU the Relationship with status with relative ease. with relative ease. There are also different different also are There agreements used by countries by countries used agreements who trade closely with the EU EU with the closely trade who without being member states. states. member being without But while a precedent exists, exists, aprecedent while But to secure new agreements agreements new to secure each model has pros and and pros has model each length of time it would take take it would oftime length on trade and investment investment and trade on cons and none is likely likely is none and cons vote mainly focus on the the on focus vote mainly to be a perfect solution solution to aperfect be in favour of a Remain ofaRemain favour in While the arguments arguments the While for voters who seek seek voters who for over British policies. policies. over British control British complete impact on British businesses. have apositive would of renegotiation areas the whether about information of lack However, aclear is there benefits and remittances. in-work migrants’ EEA restricting as such immigration, on concerns political party specific reflected points Some 2016. February in renegotiation his after EU to the reforms significant achieved he that said Minister Prime The vote to remain. UK the should exists also uncertainty much were to EU, leave the UK if the referendum co.uk/political-influence/our-work#eu- at www.agcc. surveys and papers briefing our via sectors business key on impacts EU the how about Chamber members can read more it’scomplicated. see, – choices difficult new mean also would liberalisation This 2030. in GDP in gain permanent a0.6% be could there deregulation, and world ofthe rest with the trade free pursues additionally UK the If 2030. in to GDP loss permanent a 0.8% be could there EU, with the deal trade acomprehensive strikes only and to leave decides UK if the that suggests ofCommerce Chambers British for Europe by Open made Analysis much. help doesn’t this economy, but the about to is think position usual our topics debate ofEU myriad the Within session. council aprevious in governments bynational the blocked been already not had legislation the event that unlikely the in work only would object parliaments national ofthe if 55% to legislation stop card” “red Finally, the reform. will they of regulation areas which have clarified EU the nor Government UK the Neither reforms. significant in resulted not to date has and years for EU ofthe aim policy ageneral been already had this but by businesses, welcomed be would tape red in reductions agreed The Opinion Michael Keating

What is the MAY 2016 alternative to | OPINION Europe?

IF THE United Kingdom votes would not be open to other countries. to withdraw from the European Both the EEA and the Swiss Union on June 23, it will have two arrangements provide for free years to complete the process. movement of labour, so this would What is not clear is what these not satisfy the demands of most negotiations would entail and what the Brexit supporters. Both Norway and outcome of Brexit would actually mean. Switzerland contribute, in different ways, to EU spending without getting There are two broad alternatives: an anything back. arrangement with the EU to retain by Michael Keating, access to the single market on much The alternative to these arrangements professor of politics at the the present terms; or a strategy of “go would be to abandon a special and it alone” in world markets, without any relationship with Europe and rely on Director of on the trading rules of the World Trade privileged relation with the EU. Constitutional Change Organization (WTO) and on bilateral Continued access to the European treaties with other states and trading single market could be secured by blocs. joining the European Free Trade Area (EFTA) and then the European In this case, the UK would not be Economic Area (EEA), which provides subject to the supranational authority access to the single market for Norway, of the EU and would recover full Iceland and Lichtenstein. sovereignty. The downside is that EEA states have It would control migration and to accept the rules of the single market, movement of labour and not be but do not participate in making them. subject to EU rules on matters like environmental policy or working There is some consultation and conditions. involvement in working parties but no The EU - vote in the Council of the European It would not have to contribute to the What's best for Union. EU budget. It is not even certain that the UK would The downside is that UK exporters business? could face tariffs exporting to the EU be allowed to join the EEA, since it was Michael Keating is speaking (in the case of cars this is about 10%), designed for small states, which would at the Chamber on May 20 not affect the overall European balance non-tariff barriers, and barriers in of power and, in the case of Norway, exporting services. whose government really wanted to There is some protection under the BOOK NOW join the EU but lost two referendums. WTO but WTO negotiations on agcc.co.uk Another variant of this applies in trade liberalization stalled after the Switzerland, which does not belong to failed Doha Round and the trend EEA but has a series of bilateral treaties now is towards regional free trade under which it also has to accept organizations like NAFTA (North most EU laws but without a vote in America), MERCOSUR (South determining them. America) and ASEA (Asia-Pacific). The arrangement is so complicated The EU, as a major trading block, would that progress on updating it has stalled be a bigger force than the UK on its and the EU has made it clear that it own.

37 38 NEWS | MAY 2016 Fife, Scotland. Scotland. Fife, in terminal marine Bay Braefoot and plant processing gas Mossmorran the and Aberdeenshire in plant processing gas to St Fergus the services industrial deliver to with Shell, contract three-year anew secured has WoodGroup Meanwhile, services. integrity asset and engineering integrity noise, vibration, equipment rotating and piping provides Perth, in with headquarters company SVT, aprivately-owned line. service engineering noise (VDN) and dynamics vibration, global a providing in Group step for Wood asignificant marks acquisition The Australia. in based Consultants Engineering SVT acquired has Group WOOD Wood acquisition Group — total. in years eight for continuing partnership the in result could which options extension has agreement four-year The on and offshoreNorway. both services consultancy delivering for Norway with Lundin agreement frame a awarded been has AGR provider software and service gas and oil GLOBAL AGR agreement — healthcare. to and IT transport and construction from ranging tenders, sector public all for portal ofthe operator sole remain will ago, sevenyears PCS manage and to design appointed first was which Millstream, process. tender open competitive a following Cities, and Investment Infrastructure, for Secretary Cabinet Brown, by Keith made was ofMillstream reappointment ofthe announcement The year. every economy to Scottish the £10billion around worth tenders handles which (PCS), Scotland Contracts website Public e-procurement national the running to continue contract five-year a £1.2million, awarded provider, been has tendering electronic leading UK’s the MILLSTREAM, Millstream for contract Government — midst.” our in businesses young exciting many the encourage and to nourish harnessed be could oftalent wealth if this entrepreneurs of generation next to the benefit ofgreat be would “It sector,” said. gas she and oil demanding the in have who excelled North-east the and Aberdeen in females successful we have that many lawyer acorporate as experience personal from know “I angels. investment established from support seeking are which businesses growth early and start-up 200 together brought conference &Growth Women’s Ambition Investing investors. angel female for conference first atScotland’s in speaking was She businesses. emerging contribution in supporting ahuge make could who industries major other and gas and oil in thrived had who entrepreneurs ofsuccessful bank ahuge was there said Law Jacqueline investors. angel potential as career asecond to consider entrepreneurs female North-east urged has Considine Aberdein law firm ofScottish partner managing THE angels for look-out the On News Member TAQA in the North Sea. Sea. TAQA North the in for provision service its extending contract atwo-year awarded been also has It Aberdein Considine Aberdein managing partner, Law, Jackie Millstream managing director, Tim Williams, 39 NEWS | MAY 2016 40 HOT TOPIC | MAY 2016 sales officemanager, Leitch, Julia Advisors & Accountants Acumen managing director, Steven McKenzie, YourGP founder and medical director, LyndseyDr Myskov The Aberdeen Altens Hotel Altens Aberdeen The Topic Hot , , , tribute night with Rubix Cubes in August I would be in my own personal 80s heaven.” 80s my in own be personal Iwould August in Cubes with Rubix night tribute 80s our before acomeback make could they If one. on my hands get actually I couldn’t and by 2016 to in hard come very actually is staple fashion former this that out turns “It puffball. my in favourite pink disco a school many ofattending memories fond very Ihave some skirt. puffball favourite –the fashion my on own 80s hands totheir get able was person one not but t-shirts Relax Says Frankie and pads, shoulder massive jeans, stonewashed ofneon, weresplashes “There years. these all after to into them fit able were still they that stunned even more –and wardrobes oftheir away back atthe hidden originals 80s had still staff some that day. the for stunned Iwas clothing 80s finest their in by dressing anniversary the celebrated year, staff last the all 35 turned hotel the “WHEN buttons.” the to operate fingers have did small you to that was have very downside only The user-friendly. more today, alittle are sure we see Iam watches which smart way the the paved for accessory fashion This maths. double during everywhere to schoolchildren invaluable were also They were revolutionary. and 1980s the in scene to on broke the first timepieces multi-functional amazing These wrist? your on figures out ofworking thrill the to not love there is about what accountant, an Being comeback. to a make accessory, fashion staple love retro the watch 80s calculator,that WOULD “I infancy.” since offashion a follower Ihave that been to add -Ihasten elderly rather sound me make all doesn’t this Ihope 60s. the from afave ofmine skirt, have maxi we the also ofcourse And version. alovely voile on eye have my beady Ialready and acomeback made has jacket bomber the season This Australia. in my on holidays Iwore them and year last returned They 70s. to early the back even further go which Likewise hotpants, legs. with skinny ofajumpsuit version up-to-date the purchased Ihave now just and Iadored, which suit flying satin agreen Ihad 80s the In reappear. favourite item will your enough, long if wait you so cycles, in round it goes that is fashion about thing good The shreds. in -usually wardrobe ofthe thrown out have they been after long my in memory remained have which items certain are there years over the but HAVE“I always lovedclothes, acomeback?making would you like to see Which fashion item YOU'D LIKETO SHARE? DO YOU HAVE ANOPINION [email protected] A monthin social media... A monthin social media... The month in images in The month 200 + delegates at the AECC the at +delegates 200 to Ghana in available opportunities the details Ghana of President The event SEARCH Project on Spotlight our for space flexible and aperfect was Quay Waterloo #WellConnected @AGCCtraining @AGCCresearch @AGCCevents @chambertalk coversation the Join agcc_events destination’ destination’ tourism abusiness North-east: ‘The our at around to go slices of Plenty cake? say someone Did Budget Business Breakfast would impact Aberdeen at our Budget 2016 the how to hear keen delegates with house A full Top tweets @AGCCevents @chambertalk Absafe visitabdn #Aberdeenshire in opportunities tourism on withWaiting to talk Steve Harris too. networking brilliant and Informative yesterday! discussion sector third great @fiona_fernie #smokedsalmon #scottishsalmon Qatar Doha roadshow Professionals Culinary Qatar attending Maurice GourmetsChoice @bbc5live community! to the welcome you Thank @BackStrong_UK BackStrongAdventures months (Director, Patents) this in features Brown James Murgitroyd's Murgitroyd @_Absafe @SteveJHarris @chambertalk @chambertalk #BusinessBulletin about wonderful Thanks for a @KatDunbar @AGCC_Mary @Murgitroyd

@gourmetschoice @chambertalk @chambertalk @chambertalk @ - and -and

41 NEWS | MAY 2016 Training Calendar

June

MAY 2016 Date Course

1 Customs Procedures, Documentation, IPR and OPR - BCC optional Wed exam WhatWhat willwill youyou dodo Understand role of HMRC, rules of origin and Intra EC Trade withwith upup toto £200£200 2 Agents and Distributors - BCC optional exam forfor learninglearning oror Thu Select and appoint the right agent or distributor appropriate to your

TRAINING CALENDAR | business needs training?training?

7 Exporting and Rules of Origin - BCC optional exam Get up to £200 towards the Tue Correct documentation is vital in international trade, improve your cost of learning or training prospects of securing payment with an SDS Individual Learning Account (ILA) 7 Taking Notes and Minutes Tue Record meetings effectively and accurately with high quality minutes

8 Import Rules Fundamentals - BCC optional exam Contact us for more Wed When things go wrong, sorting them out can be difficult and information expensive. Avoid the most obvious pitfalls T 01224 343917 E [email protected] 9 Business Development Accelerator Thu Develop a powerful sales structure that will improve your sales results

13 Networking Effectively (1/2 day) Mon Refresh skills and effectively pitch in a networking situation 15 Winning More Bids Vocational Wed Produce professional proposals/tenders which stand out from the competition Qualifications Scottish Vocational 21 Export Documenattion Explained - BCC optional exam qualifications are based on Tue Understand what is involved in documentation - save time and standards of work-based money competence, designed 28 Boost your Sales Success by Sector Skills Council in Tue Maximise your sales success, attract new business and open new partnership with industry and doors awarding bodies. There are no tests or exams, competence 29 Letters of Credit - methods of payment - BCC optional exam is assessed in the candidate's Wed Make sure your letter of credit is not rejected due to discrepancies own workplace. FOR MORE INFORMATION July [email protected] Date Course www.agcc.co.uk

5 Finance - The Basics Tue Gain a broad understanding of basic accounting and business finance

7 Dealing with Difficult Situations Thu Learn ways to defuse situations and ensure a positive outcome

13 Finance for Non Finance Managers (2 days) Wed Understand financial accounts, balance sheets, profit and loss, and mangement accountsNEW For full course 14 Reception and Telephone Skills listings visit Thu Present a positive first-and-lasting impression www.agcc.co.uk/courses For more information Susan Staniforth T 01224 343917 E [email protected] 42 Events Calendar

May

Date Event Time MAY 2016 10 Speed Networking 11.45am - 2pm THE Tue Rye & Soda, Aberdeen

13 Entering Iraq 11.45am - 2pm ULTIMATE Fri AGCC, Aberdeen BUSINESS 17 Making the Most of an Exhibition 10am - 1pm EVENTS CALENDAR | Tue AECC, Aberdeen INVITATION ONLY SHOW2016 18 Transport Network Meeting 9am - 11am Thursday June 16, 2016 Wed Marischal College, Council Chambers, Aberdeen 19 The different faces of decommissioning 7am - 9am BOOK NOW Thu Hallmark Hotel Aberdeen Airport, Aberdeen agcc.co.uk 20 The EU: what's best for business 7.30am - 9.30am Fri AGCC, Aberdeen MEMBERS ONLY

24 Get Connected NON-MEMBERS 8am - 10am Tue AGCC, Aberdeen

31 AVIVA Pension Roundtable Discussion 8am - 10am Tue Palm Court, Aberdeen INVITATION ONLY June Date Event Time Chamber 1 Stick or twist... again 6pm - 8.30pm AGM Wed AECC, Aberdeen Thursday June 23, 2016 2 Scotland - Africa Oil & Gas Forum 9am - 5pm MEMBERS ONLY Thu AECC, Aberdeen For more information visit 2 Shire Connections 11.45am - 2pm agcc.co.uk MacDonald Pittodrie House, Aberdeenshire Thu Sponsored by Book7 eventsVanguard online at www.agcc.co.uk/networking-events Dinner INVITATION ONLY 6pm - 9.30pm Tue MacDonald Norwood Hall, Aberdeen

Thanks to our sponsors

43 44 ON THE MOVE | MAY 2016 state andprivately owned businesses. a spectrumoforganisations from listed globalmajors to assessment andintegration planningexperience from across broad managementconsulting, board advisory, leadership Green asheadofmanagementconsulting. Alasdairhas Initially there willbe10-strong team headedby Alasdair strategy andbusiness advisoryservices to clients. management consulting divisionto buildonitsexisting Anderson &Brown LLPhaslaunchedanew and Graeme Allan Alasdair Green, DouglasMartin,Claire Smith with Thorntons Law. company last year merged Law, inMontrose in1979. His legal private practice, Watts He setuphisown successful Authority (MPA). board ofMontrose Port has beenappointed to the Angus lawyer HamishWatt Hamish Watt Move the On Heriot-Watt University. of Petroleum Engineeringat programme at theInstitute the Foundation CMGChair of theAdvisory Board to appointed asamember training director, hasbeen Mark Bentley, AGR’s TRACS Mark Bentley Both have beenwiththecompany for more thantwo years. and Stephanie Chanto seniorconsultants. Brander oilandgasrecruitment haspromoted CarlyFord Carly Ford andStephanie Chan McMurray asdirectors. Steven Fraser andBrian of corporate finance and - DouglasMartinashead internal appointments Brown LLP hasmadethree Anderson & Douglas Martin from thebeginningofApril. senior partnerwitheffect in Aberdeen, becameoffice Martin Findlay, taxpartner senior partnerinAberdeen. appointment ofanew office KPMG hasannounced the Professional services firm Martin Findlay technical salesmanager. for Aberdeen andDonalHeeryhasbeenpromoted to Jake Rowley hasbeenappointed astechnical salesengineer and growth withseveral new appointments. Lokring Northern(UK)iscelebrating significant expansion Jake Rowley andDonalHeery business team. directors initsrural landand promoted EllenEunsonas Gillian Gibbonsand Blackadders hasappointed Ellen Eunson Gillian Gibbonsand Oil & Gas UKappointments Oil &Gas Morten Kelstrup, VP, managingdirector ofMaersk OilUK. Walter Thain, managingdirector, West, Petrofac Engineering&Production Services; and Other appointmentsto theboard are: MarkThomas, regional president ofBPNorthSea; treasurer. Craig May, managingdirector ofChevron Upstream Europe, remains inrole ashonorary communities respectively. North Sea,take onthevice co-chairman roles representing theoperator andcontractor at Nexen Petroleum UKLimited, andNeil Sims,vice president ECISRegion at Expro Existing board membersRay Riddoch,managingdirector andseniorvice president Europe both stepped down from theboard having completed themaximumperiodoftenure. Their predecessors, Trevor ofBPandJohnPearson ofAmecFoster Garlick Wheeler, have representing theoperator andcontractor communities respectively. relationship director at GlobalEnergy Group, take over asco-chairmen oftheboard, Neil McCulloch,president, NorthSeaat EnQuest PLC andTerry Savage, corporate representatives andanew team ofofficers toleaditsboard. UKhasannounced OIL &Gas theappointmentofanumbermembercompany between 2011 and2012. on thecompany’s Board Archie previously served a non-executive director. Board ofBibby Offshore as Archie Kennedy to the Limited hasappointed Bibby Offshore Holdings Archie Kennedy and gasindustry. years’ experience intheoil engineer withmore than35 Archie isachartered Scott Williamson ARE YOU ONTHEMOVE? following 42years ofservice. Meiklejohn whohasretired taking over from Sandy been elected chairman, law firmBlackadders has standing partnerat national Scott Williamson, along- [email protected] Let usknow at 45 ON THE MOVE | MAY 2016 46 NEWS | MAY 2016 Village Sports Aberdeen of view Aerial and Xtreme apprentices Gavin Donald News Member Luke Davies costs and environmental impact. environmental and costs financial both reducing thus Sea, North the in operating companies with other shares vessel by arranging requirements shipping unscheduled their for solutions effective cost source members helps Peterson of AMLA, facilitator the As costs. logistics marine reduce and efficiency to maximise initiative designed sharing a vessel (AMLA), Alliance Logistics Marine Aberdeen the through by Peterson werefacilitated All February. and January throughout Sea North Northern and central the in operators between werearranged shares Seven year. ofthe turn the since arrangements sharing ofvessel number record a seen has sharing, vessel way collaborative the in leading is company, which The international provider. logistics energy the to Peterson, according shares, vessel in rise arecord through reflected being are industry gas and oil the in collaboration increased for DEMANDS vessel in Increase sharing — Club. Athletic Amateur Aberdeen Physiotherapy, and SPEAR University, Gordon’s Robert ofAberdeen, University The Village, Sports with Aberdeen partnerships strategic through facilitated be will ALTIS Aberdeen Hydrasun. partners, athletics ASV, for our as well as boost ahuge is success delivering for areputation has that brand athletics international with an associated Being endorsement. this we have that secured proud very be should city our and community athletics the in standing ALTIS international an has partnership. ALTIS ofthe Aberdeen announcement with the delighted is Village Sports “Aberdeen Sinclair, said: Duncan Village, Sports executive ofAberdeen Chief performance. athletes’ field and improve elitetrack to help camps therapy performance and programmes coach apprentice camps, oftraining a number ALTIS hosts prominence, to global back training field and track to bring Built facility. training European latest its as (ASV) Village Sports Aberdeen by announcing division UK its expanded has athletes, championship to build and world, the in athletes best ofthe careers the shape to help launched was which organization training and educational coaching, ALTIS, aleading ASV takes on Europe — ago. years 13 firm the establishing before 16, aged apprentice an as own his career began Duncan, director, Graeme Managing ofapprenticeships. importance the championed has and systems ofIT range awide installs and supplies designs, Xtreme Aberdeen. of Tomasz Duncan 19-year-old is apprentices ofNorth-east trio the Completing Trust. Prince’s by The organised initiatives local in part taking people young of anumber from werechosen Aberdeen, from Donald Gavin and Peterhead from Luke Davies 20-year-olds apprentices, Two Aberdeenshire-based ofthe Fife. in atXtreme’s office four and North-east the in based are apprentices ofthe Three qualifications. on-the-job ofsecuring ameans as training vocational route of the Bay, following are Fife, Dalgety in and Aberdeen near bases Scottish atits staff 48 firm’s the alongside working now are who apprentices, The year. last September since engineers data sevenapprentice on taken has firm Westhill-headquartered The sixmonths. past over the of apprentices number arecord recruited has Solutions Business Xtreme specialist infrastructure network SCOTTISH Taking vocational lead the by VisitScotland’s Conference Bid Fund. Bid Conference by VisitScotland’s match-funded was which VisitAberdeen from funding subvention received ECIR networking. and sharing knowledge for opportunity best with the delegates days to provide industry and tutorials with workshops, along professionals, industry and academic from keynote feature speakers will TeamAberdeen, of approach bycollaborative the secured was which conference, The 8-9. April on (RGU) University Gordon atRobert run will workshop Aweekend debated. and discussed presented, be can research innovative and unpublished their which for network to asupportive provide aims forum The (ECIR). Retrieval Information on Conference 2017, European the for 10-13, April from Centre Conference and Exhibition Aberdeen visit will field this in Young researchers retrieval. ofinformation field the in research ofnew presentation the on forum premier Europe’s to host chosen been has ABERDEEN European conference hits town — business. your helping and centre city welcoming and safe centre, city our promoting centre, city attractive – themes main four under projects future categorised has Inspired Aberdeen 2011. in BID ofthe to formation the led which levels the on increased organisation the for support and turn-out Both votes) to multiple success. entitled ensured were who individuals –including no 109 yes, voted who (184 ofthose 63% from voters) support eligible 494 and apotential voters from (209 of42% A turn-out term. five-year asecond voting yesto organisation give the majority 17, 4to March with the February from ballot arenewal in part took payers Levy contribute. zone BID the within payers levy which initiative in abusiness-led is It operates. District) Improvement (Business BID Aberdeen the which under banner the is Inspired Aberdeen area. the to work revitalise its continuing organisation ofthe voted favour centre in city the in businesses after term asecond for re-elected been has Inspired ABERDEEN Inspired Second Aberdeen term for — material. PV of the afraction only using time same atthe while system, PV conventional a than output electrical higher or asimilar to system generate the allows This attached. is cell asolar where exit aperture smaller into a area aperture entrance alarge from radiation solar the focuses material, reflective or refractive alow-cost from constructed mainly is which device, The manufacturing process. the in required material ofPV amount the reduce would which concentrator solar a developed has Muhammad-Sukki Dr panels, solar in material (PV) photovoltaic of expensive amount ofalarge use with the To associated cost the combat cent. by per to power up 50 solar via energy of aKW ofproducing cost the reduce potentially could which concentrator solar efficient and acheap refining on working is Muhammad-Sukki Firdaus Dr world. the around usage their to abid boost in panels of solar cost the to reduce attempting are University Gordon atRobert RESEARCHERS Lowering cost the of solar solar concentrator efficient and acheap on working Dr Firdaus Muhammad-Sukki is renewal ballot success ballot renewal Inspired celebrate the organisation's Aberdeen of staff and Directors 47 NEWS | MAY 2016 New Members

Aurora Partners Limited CV Aberdeen E [email protected] Aurora Partners specialise in Enterprise W www.graniteaccountants.co.uk Career and personal development service Resilience helping organisations to survive C Natalia Streeter - Financial and thrive in a world of uncertainty through 73 John Street MAY 2016 Accountant Risk and Opportunity Management, Business Aberdeen & IT Continuity, Crisis Management, Employee _ AB25 1LP Resilience and Collaborative Working Handelsbanken incorporating the skills of the diplomat to Local relationship banking providing finance for develop adaptable, flexible and innovative T 01224 518002 business and private individuals organisations. E [email protected]

NEW MEMBERS | Handelsbanken T 07776 251537 C Darren Aggasild - Managing Director _ 22 Carden Place E [email protected] AB10 1UQ W www.aurorapartners.co.uk DM Creative Solutions Ltd C Debbie Rosario – Director Technical and Graphic Design T 01224 639089 _ 19 Alexander Drive E [email protected] Breakout Games Limited Huntly W www.handelsbanken.co.uk/ Breakout Games Limited is a provider of escape Aberdeenshire aberdeen game experiences. This involves taking small AB54 8NZ C Neil Clark - Branch Manager groups into a room full of puzzles giving 60 _ minutes to escape. T 07813 948876 Arch 1 & 2 E [email protected] InXpress Aberdeen & Dundee Palmerston Road InXpress are parcel, freight and shipping W www.dmcreativesolutions.co.uk specialists who partner with the best global Aberdeen C Derek McWilliam - Director carriers. Due to their size and shipping volumes, AB11 5RE _ InXpress can bring their customers unrivalled shipping solutions at low prices. T 07788 254629 Ferguson Legal T 07742 860343 Ferguson Legal is a bespoke specialist E [email protected] E [email protected] www.breakoutgames.co.uk commercial law practice reinventing the way W law firms work. Specialising in regulatory and W www.inxpress.com C Hollie Kelly - Director compliance law, Ferguson Legal is commercially C Ajay Mehta – Director _ driven delivering both preventive and reactive _ advice. It is time to get law savvy. Caledonia Competence The Office McKenzie Quality Print Ltd Limited Established in 1991 providing litho & digital We provide Competence Assurance consultancy Corner Cottage printing services to both the private and business services to the Energy Industry. Some of Inchmarlo sectors our main services include the creation or Aberdeenshire development of Competence Assurance Unit 12, Wellheads Crescent schemes. Internal & External Competence & AB31 4AP Wellheads Industrial Estate Training Audits and Assessor and Internal Verifier Dyce training courses. T 01224 900025 Aberdeen 6 International Avenue E [email protected] AB21 7GA ABZ Business Park C Carole Ferguson - Partner Dyce _ T 01224 774161 Aberdeen Gilbert Watson & Associates E [email protected] AB21 0BH Limited W www.mckenzie-print.com Accounting and Tax Services to SMEs and C Steve McKenzie - Managing Director T 01224 920043 individuals _ E [email protected] 42 Carden Place MTC Media Ltd C Gavin Smith - Managing Director Aberdeen _ Website development and online marketing AB10 1UP services Cancer Research UK T 07572 159413 Shed 26, Unit 35 Cancer Research UK is the world’s leading City Quay organisation dedicated to saving lives through E [email protected] research. Our vision is to bring forward the day C Rob Watson - Director Dundee when all cancers are cured. _ DD1 3JA Angel Building Granite Accountants T 08448 042021 407 St John Street (Aberdeen) Ltd E [email protected] London Innovative accountancy services from qualified W www.mtcmedia.co.uk EC1V 4AD staff using app and cloud based technology to provide a solid foundation to your business. C Kate McKay - Business Development Executive T 03001 231022 199 Westburn Road E [email protected] Aberdeen W www.cruk.org AB25 2QE C Fiona Harvey - Senior Local 01224 502555 48 Fundraising Manager T O'Caykx Programmed International The Business Connection O’Caykx specialises in creating bespoke cakes Recruitment agency specialising in oil, gas and Registered charity to encourage, equip and and cupcakes for all occasions. Based in the marine markets empower people working in Aberdeen's centre of Aberdeen, our Clientele range from corporate sector.

Marine House MAY 2016 Corporate to Individuals; producing cakes 8 Wellside Park for Weddings, Corporate events, Birthdays, 11 Rubislaw Terrace Anniversaries, Christenings etc. At the heart of Aberdeen Kingswells our cakery is our Employee Benefit Package Aberdeen which focuses on boosting employee morale AB10 1XE AB15 8EG at a surprisingly minimal cost to Companies. 01224 628584 With great discounts for both the employer and T T 07449 336606 NEW MEMBERS | employees, it's a win win. Definitely one that's E [email protected] jim.grimmer@ hard to ignore. W www.programmed.com E thebusinessconnection.org 22 Schoolhill C Sarah-Jane Innes - Operations Aberdeen Manager W www.thebusinessconnection.org AB10 1JX _ C Jim Grimmer - Founder/Trustee _ T 01224 640731 QoSL Industrial Marketing & The Leadership Factory E [email protected] Sales Quality of Sales Ltd specialises in Leadership and organisational development W www.ocaykx.com commercialising industrial science IP, systems Springfield House C Oyin Adekola - Owner & products; addressing strategic, structural Larelhill Business Park _ and sales performance issues; originating and delivering marketing & sales campaigns. Stirling Peatfield Scientific Ltd Cammach Business Centre FK7 9JQ Consultant analytical chemists. Advice, development, sample analysis. Greenbank Road T 01786 406623 Unit 5, Glassel East Tullos E [email protected] Banchory Aberdeen W www.leadershipfactory.co.uk Aberdeenshire AB12 3BN C Simon Daley - Change, Leadership AB31 4BW T 07802 947200 and OD Specialist _ T 07796 916165 E [email protected] E stephen.peatfield@ W www.qosl.com The Lubricant Company peatfieldscientificltd.co.uk C James Bromley - Director UK Distributor for Exxon Mobil Lubricants - supply of Lubricant and Lubricant Management W www.peatfieldscientificltd.co.uk _ Services C Stephen Peatfield - Laboratory Succulento Ltd Minto Avenue Director We are makers of tasty bites with our secret Altens Industrial Estate _ sauces and spices. We cater for meetings, events, parties and also handle individual requests. It is Aberdeen Plus Performance Ltd a whole new experience. Succulento, the joy of AB12 3JZ "Delivering the complete workforce engagement food. solution to drive operational excellence". Plus 16 Wellside Circle T 08443 978000 Performance works with both large and small mgirvan@thelubricantcompany. companies to enable behaviour and culture Aberdeen E co.uk change, improve HSE performance, and deliver AB15 8DZ business results by actively engaging their W www.thelubricantcompany.co.uk workforce and leaders. T 07917 669088 C Michael Girvan - Business 19 Kingshill Avenue E [email protected] Development Manager Aberdeen W www.succulento.co.uk AB15 5HB C Dami Odugbemi – Director T 07803 505958 E Gillian_plusperformance@yahoo. com C Gillian Taylor – Director

49 Photo Diary Growth in Ghana, Friday March 18, 2016 MAY 2016 PHOTO DIARY |

His Excellency, The President of Ghana John Dramani Mahama

50