SPRING 2020 iod.com/scotland Direction The official membership magazine for the Institute of Directors in Scotland

IR35: Preparing for the inevitable On the journey to true inclusion

‘Hard work and good research are never wasted’ Poonam Gupta obe on building a business

IoD Scotland Let’s go from innovation & Direction National Director Scotland: to opportunity Malcolm Cannon For email enquiries: [email protected] Uncertainty continues to stalk the business community, W: www.iod.com Address: but by harnessing the talents of our teams and being 10 Charlotte Square, bold as leaders, Scotland can thrive and prosper, Edinburgh EH2 4DR says IoD national Chair Aidan O’Carroll T: 0131 557 5488 Direction is the official membership magazine There is no question that all of us, as IoD benefitting from technology, automation and of Institute of Directors members, are facing uncertain times. Looking creating greater efficiencies, is motivating our Scotland and is at this through a Scottish lens, we can see the people to harness new or additional skills, published by: challenges that the proposed immigration rules encouraging innovation among our most Chamber Media recently announced by the UK Government will important asset. Services, 4 Hilton Road, pose in our quest for the talent we need to help Scotland has one of the best talent banks to Bramhall, Stockport, Scotland’s business and communities grow. apply to the challenges of today and tomorrow, Cheshire SK7 3AG We see the global economy being affected by so let’s, as leaders, think how we create the right a number of potential shocks to the system, environment where our people feel fully Advertising sales: including the as yet to be fully quantified effect engaged with the strategies we want to Colin Regan of the Coronavirus on supply chains, which implement and feel incentivised to come Tel: 07871 444922 / could have a significant knock-on effect to our forward and be bold. 01942 537959 business-as-usual models. Finally, we are still We can all identify with being an outward- Email: colinregan001@ working out how to deal with the undoubted looking nation, a welcoming place for all who yahoo.co.uk challenges that Brexit is going to pose from 1st will contribute to building a better and more January next year, and beyond. prosperous Scotland. As leaders there has never Production: It is at times like these that we can all step up been a more important time to provide that Rob Beswick as leaders and challenge the way we and our confidence to our colleagues, our customers, Tel: 0161 426 7957 / colleagues come up with solutions, the speed and to the broader community, showing that 07964 375216 with which we implement bolder plans, we can drive forward our respective businesses Email: rob@chamber manage risks more effectively and, in my mind and organisations. mediaservices.co.uk most importantly, think innovatively on how we At the IoD, while we continue to engage with can turn challenges into opportunities. our members and government to help build a Editorial: One key area that remains an enduring issue sustainable economy, we have some of the Please send press for our economy is how we raise the effective most relevant training opportunities that will releases or editorial for productivity that we know creates greater help to build better leadership, create better consideration for future growth and prosperity for everyone. At all times enterprises and increase the skills that we will issues of Direction to: we need to challenge how we invest for the need to sustain us through uncertain times. Kirsten Paul future, and a key investment, alongside Take a look and see how we can help you. Email: kirsten@clark communications.co.uk

Although every effort CONTENTS is made to ensure the accuracy of material contained within this News 4 magazine, neither IoD Scotland nor Chamber Downtime 8 Media Services can accept any responsibility for Behind the Desk 10 5 10 omissions or inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising Leadership Interview: content. The views expressed Poonam Gupta obe 12 19 in this publication are not necessarily those of Technical briefings: 16 the IoD. The carriage of advertisements or editorials IoD Scotland: in this publication does not 5 constitute an endorsement Conference 19 of the products or services Awards 24 advertised. Membership Benefits 28 Cover: Poonam Gupta OBE Director Development 30 Photo: Susie Lowe See pg 12 Events Diary 32 18

WWW.IOD.COM 03 Executive Comment/News

The importance of manifesting promises

The constantly changing performance can be monitored against of what these required skills are, but also landscape that our businesses previous years, competitor activity or through more effective recruitment and operate in challenges us to get against forecast, and therefore, through leadership training. Increased objectives can be set against any or all of diversity on boards and staff will also our goals – and our teams – these comparators. encourage greater challenge and a right, says Malcolm Cannon, Analysing how a business measures broader understanding of market and IoD Scotland National Director up against its competitors is the best customer dynamics. way to monitor performance. Everyone Constant evaluation and monitoring in a specific sector will be facing broadly of performance against these KPIs is It will not have escaped readers’ notice the same economic, political and social very important. This ongoing that we have been promised many challenges, and so you are likely to be assessment ensures management focus things by politicians during the past few on a level playing field. After all, if you years. Their manifesto pledges, whether outperform your competitors, your “It’s crucial that Boards and in documents or on the sides of buses, market share increases and, as the joke have become more and more extreme in says, you don’t need to outrun the management teams include order to attract both voters and votes. opposition, only the lion. people with the right skillsets But there is, and always has been, Setting these corporate objectives, to futureproof the business...” extreme risk in making promises which inexorably linked to delivering the are largely undeliverable or over which strategy, is critical to business, and the and facilitates rapid decision-making. there is little control. Board must work hard with senior Occasionally, tough decisions have to be We are under constant pressure to management to establish realistic and made, and leaders are not here to avoid grow and thrive, but the environment achievable targets while still embracing hurting people’s feelings or to doggedly around us becomes ever less reliable. ambition. Nowadays, these long-term stick to a failing plan; they are here to Of course, we have never been able to plans will also need to include large deliver ambitious targets for their ‘predict the unpredictable’, but it does degrees of tolerance to take into account business. seem that curveballs are thrown our way the moving political, economic, Agreeing a set of objectives, aligned to more frequently than ever before. From technological and legislative landscapes a long or medium-term strategy, forces Brexit and other constitutional issues, to along with potential new competitors a business to deploy resources even greater concerns such as the and market disruptors. efficiently and to measure outcomes in climate crisis, the landscape is ever- It is therefore crucial that Boards and a quantitative manner. changing. management teams include people with Merely promising things in order to How, then, can businesses deliver the right skillsets to help futureproof recruit followers (as in a manifesto), can against their plans when they cannot their business. This can be achieved not be damaging to the reputation of manage these external forces? Corporate only through improved understanding businesses or their leaders.

New transport strategy recognises scale of challenge as Scotland looks to tackle congestion and climate

Transport Scotland has outlined a new public and active travel modes, as well strategy to guide plans for the next two as a reduction in the demand for decades. unsustainable transport. The National Transport Strategy details Michael Matheson MSP noted: “The the role of transport in delivering the National Transport Strategy is for the priorities of reducing inequalities and whole of Scotland, recognising the taking climate action while helping different needs of our cities, towns, deliver inclusive economic growth and remote and rural areas and islands. improving health and wellbeing. “Transport plays an important role More than 60 organisations and in delivering the society we want and 6,500 people contributed to the inclusiveness and equality are at the development of the document, with a heart of our new strategy. consultation receiving 1,200 responses. “While we tackle inequalities, our The Strategy sets out the actions that activity is required to meet this, actions will reduce poverty, in must be taken to meet the Government’s including the adoption of ultra-low particular child poverty, by improving ambitious climate change targets. emission vehicles, shifting travel access to jobs, education and training It acknowledges that a range of behaviour through improved use of as well as to key services.”

04 WWW.IOD.COM Boost for IoD Fife as new hub opens at Carnegie Conference Centre

IoD Scotland members in Fife can now take advantage of a new member benefit with the launch of a new hub at Carnegie Conference Centre in Dunfermline. The facility can be used by members for drop-in meetings in either an open plan meeting space or individual meeting room for up to four people. Located just off the M90, the Conference Centre has over 140 free parking spaces and free wi-fi is available throughout the fully accessible building. IoD members are welcome to drop-in to use the facilities any time between 8am – 5.30pm, Monday to Friday. Jan Thomson, Managing Director of Carnegie Conference Centre said: “We are looking forward to welcoming IoD members to use our conference centre, and in addition to the drop-in facilities on Evening and weekend bookings may be Pictured at the new IoD hub are, from left, offer, we are also happy to offer a also available upon enquiry – call Susan Dunsmuir, CFO at Fife College; Ian preferred rate for alternative meeting and 0344 248 0119 or email sales@ Collins, IoD Fife Chair; and Jan Thomson, conference accommodation, including carnegieconference centre.co.uk to find Head of Commercial Projects at Fife College full catering options for lunch or dinner.” out more. Emirates reinstates iconic A380 to Glasgow

IoD airline partner Emirates has reinstated the world’s largest commercial passenger aircraft to its Glasgow service. The huge double-decker aircraft, which has a wingspan of almost 80 metres and can carry over 500 passengers, returns to the airline’s popular Glasgow-Dubai route in March. Emirates will operate the iconic A380 on a year-round basis on the double daily service, Scotland’s busiest long-haul route. One of the airline’s Boeing 777 aircraft fleet will continue to be used on the route. Mark Johnston, Managing Director at Glasgow Airport, said: “Emirates’ decision to operate a year-round daily service using the Airbus A380 is tremendous news and underlines the airline’s continued commitment to Glasgow ambition and is testament to the Dubai Dubai service in 2004, over 4.8 million Airport and its passengers. route’s popularity with our customers. passengers have travelled between the “We invested significantly in our “This decision marks yet another two cities and further afield through international pier infrastructure to vastly milestone in a relationship with Emirates Emirates’ network of 158 destinations. improve the experience for our long-haul that dates back to 2004, when the first The A380 flying between Glasgow and carriers and passengers last year. route between Scotland and the Middle Dubai has a three-class configuration, “This included building Scotland’s first East was launched at Glasgow Airport. with 14 private suites in First-Class, 76 and only triple airbridge, which not only “Our Dubai double daily is Scotland’s lie-flat seats in Business Class and 399 supports a wide range of aircraft types leading long-haul route, so it’s fitting that spacious seats in Economy Class. but is perfect for servicing the A380. the world’s largest commercial passenger In addition to transporting passengers, “The decision to make such a aircraft will play a part in the unique Emirates’ SkyCargo on the A380 will significant investment was a bold one, customer experience offered to Emirates’ continue to carry key Glaswegian exports however, the return of this iconic aircraft passengers at Glasgow Airport.” across the world, including Scottish food to daily service underlines our continued Since the introduction of the Glasgow- and drink and oil well equipment.

WWW.IOD.COM 05 News

UWS to launch Cloud over IT public sector biggest ever A new report by UKCloud looking at the cloud computing landscape has found that buyers are Graduate still in search of the ‘perfect cloud solution’ and are continuing to have to navigate challenges that Apprenticeship include policy, skills and budgets. The majority of those surveyed (87.2%) indicated programme that they would move their IT to the cloud if the ‘perfect solution’ existed. However, the survey noted that achieving this ‘perfect solution’ inevitably comes with a whole host of both business and technical challenges. Interestingly, 85.5% of respondents revealed that they would prefer a multi-cloud vendor and fewer The University of the West of further and higher education than one in five have a policy to only use a single Scotland is set to provide 130 sectors. They are designed by cloud. Graduate Apprenticeship (GA) employers and offered in key Leighton James, CTO at UKCloud said: “While opportunities in 2020 as part of its sectors that need highly skilled the survey was focused on cloud adoption, it was partnership with Skills Development employees. in the context of the amazing potential for the Scotland, the largest offering since Professor Craig Mahoney, future of public services in the UK. the partnership began three years Principal and Vice-Chancellor of “Adoption of cloud begins to knock down the ago. UWS, said: “Working closely with silos that exist across the public sector and unlock As part of the programme, five industry, we understand the precious resources and datasets that are key to GAs will be offered in: challenges that employers face driving better insights, delivering better outcomes n Early Learning and Childcare when it comes to attracting and and harnessing the innovation made possible by n Software Development retaining talent. digital technologies such as artificial intelligence, n Engineering Design and “We work hard to ensure that IoT and mixed reality. Manufacture our students graduate not only “Hence, by understanding the impediments to n Civil Engineering with a qualification but with the cloud adoption the UK GovTech community can n Business Management. practical skills they need to thrive work collaboratively to provide the diversity of All apprenticeships will start in in the world of work.” solutions and skills that will help the UK develop September this year. UWS works closely with a world-class national capabilities – all based on GAs have been developed by variety of employers to deliver nurturing our nation’s precious data as a national Skills Development Scotland in GAs. Arnold Clark has been a key asset.” partnership with industry and the partner since August 2017.

Knowledge Exchange Partnership celebrates 2020 winners The Scottish Knowledge Exchange Flynn, Heriot-Watt University Partnership has announced the winners of its n Innovator of the Future – Connor Blair, 2020 awards, which recognise organisations University of Glasgow that have collaborated with academia to n Multiparty Collaboration – The make a positive impact on the economy and nEUROSTRESSPEP project society by forming projects. n Spotlight Award – Enable Scotland, The winners included: University of Strathclyde Business School, n Innovation of the Year – HAS Technology Ltd Scottish Power and Marriott Hotel, Glasgow. n Making a Difference – Baltic Street Dr Siobhán Jordan (pictured), director of Adventure Playground event organiser Interface, said: “This unique n Knowledge Exchange Champion of the ceremony showcases the immense talent and Year – Professor Marian Wiercigroch, expertise in colleges and universities working University of Aberdeen and Professor David with industry.”

Qatar Airways doubles up to Doha IoD partner Qatar Airways has announced that it will double the amount of daily flights out of Edinburgh. From 1st April, the airline will provide 14 flights per week from the capital to Doha. Speaking about the launch of the increased service, Qatar Airways Country Manager UK & Ireland, Gary Kershaw, said: “Our increased frequency to double-daily flights from Edinburgh underlines our commitment to Scotland and we are delighted to 14 flights a week from offer our passengers greater opportunities to fly to Doha as well Edinburgh to Doha, Qatar as connecting them with more than 160 destinations worldwide.”

06 WWW.IOD.COM Data Lab shines a Granite city goes for light on innovation

The Data Lab has launched TORCH, gold as it sets top a business advisory service to boost data-driven innovation and collaboration between businesses. standards for housing The service, which is co-funded by Scottish Enterprise and the Aberdeen City Council has agreed to University of adopt a ‘gold’ standard for new local Edinburgh, has authority housing as part of an ongoing been created to programme to deliver 2,000 additional link businesses homes. who are starting to The new design specification will use data with expert partners and provide more energy efficient homes advisors, and will act as a using technology to make homes matchmaking service between greener and cheaper to run. They will academia and industry. also feature enhanced sound insulation, Gillian Docherty OBE, CEO of The more natural light, improved security, Data Lab, said: “We are excited to dedicated space for working, and Council co-leader, Councillor Douglas launch TORCH, an initiative born storage for an electric wheelchair, pram Lumsden, said: “Adopting the gold from The Data Lab’s core mission to or bicycle. standard means our future housing support others to innovate. Every The council also agreed that where the stock will help meet the aspirations for business has the potential to gold standard cannot be achieved within people, the place and the economy innovate with data, regardless of size a specific site, the silver standard must spelled out in the city’s Local Outcome or sector, and we want to make sure be delivered as a minimum. Improvement Plan. they know where to go to get the Gold standard homes aim for a “We want to deliver homes that help, tools or support they need. minimum 27 per cent reduction in support the physical and mental “Data presents unprecedented carbon dioxide emissions compared to wellbeing of our tenants by satisfying opportunities for businesses, but we silver, partly through using renewable their current and future needs, helping recognise it also comes with its energy to provide 50 per cent rather them become more self-sufficient in the challenges. We created our than 5 per cent of hot water demand. long term.” Executive Education service to help businesses start their data journey; TORCH aims to enable businesses to successfully take the next steps on their data transformation by Edinburgh BioQuarter announces translating strategy into practical exciting expansion vision actions using the methods and technologies most suited to their needs.” Over the next four years, TORCH aims to address these issues and will assist more than 250 companies.

EY eyes Scottish economic growth Images have been published showing £300m investment planned in the next A new report from the EY ITEM plans for a £750m extension at five years through pipeline projects, Club has found that the growth gap Edinburgh BioQuarter which would see including the new £68m University of between Scotland and the rest of new housing, more space for research Edinburgh Usher Institute. the UK is predicted to narrow in the and healthcare innovation, a hotel, a Hugh Edmiston, chairman of next two years. gym and shops. Edinburgh BioQuarter Strategy Board, Researchers have forecast that The 160-acre site, which is also home said: “This is the start of an exciting the Scottish economy will grow by to the Royal Infirmary Edinburgh, journey in the next chapter of 0.8% in GVA in 2020, down from University of Edinburgh Medical School Edinburgh BioQuarter’s development. 0.9% last year. But that compares and 13 award-winning life sciences As we move ahead, we want to ensure with the UK as a whole slowing businesses, would see the number of that we involve our staff, students and from 1.4% last year to 1.2% in 2020. people based on the site rise from 8,000 the local communities in this long-term Mark Gregory, EY’s UK chief to 20,000. vision. economist, said the big question is BioQuarter’s partners – City of “The opportunities here are vast and, whether the economy will kick on Edinburgh Council, NHS Lothian, once realised, can deliver significant and post-general election or be held Scottish Enterprise and the University of long lasting economic and social back by a global slowdown and Edinburgh – have already invested over benefits for Edinburgh, Scotland and potentially harmful terms of £500m in the existing site, with a further beyond.” leaving the EU.

WWW.IOD.COM 07 Downtime

‘Taps aff’ in Glasgow soon? While summer might seem a while off, we Scots are always in search of the sun (and things to do in it). If a G&T in the sun is not for you (though if it is, we are sure you will appreciate the story below), then how about Walk this way, says new sliding down the streets of Glasgow on a giant water slide? Well, if reports are to be believed, Mastercard device by 2030 there could be a giant water slide installed as part of the Ever get the feeling that technology is technology and the way people walk to regeneration of Blythswood. becoming a little too smart? Well, how authenticate people.” Described as “bold”, the plans hope about a new payment technology being So how does it work? CCTV cameras to revitalise one part of the city and pioneered by Mastercard that authent- would identify passengers approaching the temporary installation could be icates a user by the way they walk? transport barriers. Once the system used to welcome a new audience to In a bid to replace bus passes, recognises the individual, it would let an area little used by pedestrians. Mastercard is investigating innovative them pass after matching them with an The proposal has been included in behavioural biometrics such as gait, face, account that is in credit or linked to a draft regeneration plans for heartbeat and veins for cutting edge valid payment card. It is hoped that by Blythswood, the fifth of nine payment systems of the future. coming up with this unique measurement frameworks to be drawn up for city Ajay Bhalla, president of cyber and of an individual that there will be a lower centre districts. Other suggestions intelligence solutions for Mastercard, chance of hackers accessing an include improving links between the said: “The way you hold your phone, individual’s credentials. city centre and the West End by which ear you use, and how your fingers But at Direction, we have one question addressing the divide caused by the touch the buttons are all unique to you. – what happens if you are late for the train M8, re-opening Blythswood Square to We have been testing heartbeat, vein and are running to the barriers? the public and upgrading Charing Cross and Anderston train stations. While a consultation is in process, similar slides have proven popular Cameron House set to reopen in late 2020 when installed in other cities. We’ll keep you updated on progress. Cameron House has announced the date for its grand reopening following a tragic blaze three years ago. Hendrick’s launches The five-star resort will reopen in late 2020 and has commenced taking lunar gin function bookings from January 2021. Hendrick’s has unveiled The hotel expects that an extension, a new limited-edition which will include 68 new bedrooms, Moon-inspired gin, will be completed by summer of the called Lunar. same year. Lunar gin is the Planning approval has been granted second release by the Loch Lomond and Trossachs from master distiller Lesley Gracie and National Park Authority for the building follows Hendrick’s Midsummer housing the bedrooms, many of which redevelopment of the hotel. Solstice in 2019. will include large balconies with “The extension will maximise the Lunar is described as “distinctly loch-facing views, and a new ballroom. stunning views of Loch Lomond while floral with a delicate spicy finish”. The ballroom has capacity for 350 respecting the architectural integrity Gracie created the “rich, warm and guests and for more than 400 people in of the original house.” alluring” gin during a moonlit evening a theatre or reception-style. The plans include a new loch-facing while tending to her botanicals in the Andy Roger, resort director at ballroom and 68 bedrooms, which will hothouse. It is recommended that you Cameron House, said: “We welcome adjoin the hotel’s existing leisure wing. serve during occasions such as the National Park Authority’s planning This will bring the resort’s total “night-sipping, moon-gazing and approval, which is a major step offering to 208 bedrooms, including 28 other sensible modes of forward in the multi-million-pound spectacular suites. contemplation”. Priced at £35.

08 WWW.IOD.COM Cameron House set to reopen in late 2020 Behind the Desk

Leading a fantastic team, 24-7

Pauline Howie OBE Name: engaging with the public, staff and other n Even leaders aren’t the finished Position: Chief Executive stakeholders on how they would like the article. What’s next in your leadership Company: Scottish Ambulance Service Service to develop in the coming development journey? Number of employees: 5,000+ decade. Building on the increased Working collaboratively with other survival rates achieved in the last five system leaders in pursuit of Scotland’s Short overview of organisation: years, along with treating more people National Outcomes. Most of this The Scottish Ambulance Service is a in their own homes, we must play our development is experiential, although national mobile public service part in helping to improve health and there is plenty of learning to draw on dedicated to saving lives, improving wellbeing. from other systems across the UK and health and providing care in people’s inter-nationally. homes, in every community in n What keeps you awake at night? Scotland, 24/7/365. Leading a 24/7 emergency service n What is the ‘next big thing’ that will there are always issues arising. I work transform your sector? with a great team, whom I have The fourth industrial revolution will confidence in and know that I’ll only be have huge consequences for health and n What is the greatest recurring disturbed in extremis. care, eg, personalised medicine, robotic challenge you come across in your role, surgery, AI, drones, etc. and what’s your strategy for dealing n What makes a good leader great? with it? I think the common attributes are n What piece of technology do you rely Demand for our Service continues to passion for what they are pursuing, on most? grow as the population ages. Patients constant curiosity and desire for My iPhone! and their carers’ needs are increasingly improvement, connecting with and complex and public finances are under listening diligently and with empathy to n What is your favourite social media severe pressure. users and staff, and having a great team. platform, and what does it bring to Based on data, patient feedback, staff your business/organisation? experience and international best n Have you had a mentor, and what did I use Twitter most often for instant, practice we are reforming the Service, he/she add to your development? direct reach to stakeholders. It’s an working closely with partners to help Yes, over the years I have had coaches instant source of news and opinion prevent ill health, to anticipate when and mentors. Having a safe which helps inform next steps. people might deteriorate and treat space to share what’s on people effectively when they become ill. your mind, and offer n What needs fixed? We constantly have to balance delivering an independent and There are always opportunities for the Service each day under these external perspective improvements. Within the Service we’ve pressures while making the changes can be very embedded quality as a business required for longer term sustainability. helpful, along strategy, with people trained in with practising improvement methodology across the n Who, or what, drives you or working in organisation. inspires you? new ways to For example in the North, local staff The people who work in our Service progress redesigned training arrangements to (staff and volunteers) amaze and issues. improve accessibility. humble me every day. Across the full range of roles, they work in n What leadership advice would you extremely challenging give your younger self? environments and The people delivering and receiving circumstances, with services are the best placed to design kindness, care and changes and improvements; the leader’s compassion. role is to create the conditions for this to We receive very happen reliably. positive patient feedback, along with suggestions for “I have had coaches and improvements and this inspires me to continue mentors. Having a safe space to to create the share what’s on your mind, and conditions for the Service to develop offer an independent and further. external perspective can be n What is your very helpful, along with long-term vision for practising working in new ways the organisation that you lead? to progress issues...” We are currently

10 WWW.IOD.COM

Leadership interview: Poonam Gupta obe

Hard work and good research are never wasted Few people would relish building a business from scratch in an industry they’ve no experience of, but for Poonam Gupta obe it was just a challenge that could be met with a lot of hard work, refreshing honesty and a brutal commitment to being the smartest person in the room. Rob Beswick finds out more. Photos by Susie Lowe

There’s one thing that unites everyone I knew no-one and I was uncertain what meant that paper grades rejected in who has their own business: you never to do next.” Europe and North America could find a forget your first sale. She began looking for a job but her willing buyer in India.” In the case of Poonam Gupta obe it applications were rejected time and Finding a niche to exploit didn’t make was a deal to buy paper destined for the again – “I was over-qualified” – but she it any easier to do so, however: “It waste bin at an Italian paper mill and remained determined to build a career. wasn’t easy to get doors to open for me. selling it on to India. “I’d worked in my father’s business back I was unknown in the industry, I was a The cost of the sale was €25,000; in India and I always thought I wanted a woman of Indian descent and I was a Poonam’s profit? career. It was difficult to know where to start-up business. It was very frustrating “Oh, about £700,” she recalls. “I start, though: my upbringing in India but I persevered and in the end came remember being so pleased. It was a had conditioned me to think of my life across an Italian paper mill that had great deal, and realising I had earned in terms of looking after my family – paper left over that they didn’t know money made me even more determined marriage, raising children, looking after what to do with, as it had been deemed to build my own business.” older relatives – but I always thought I waste. One man’s waste is another And build it she did: today Poonam had more to give than that.” man’s asset and I convinced them to sell has come a long way from that initial Determined to succeed and feeling me the paper, which I then sold on to a £700, with PG Paper now turning over that no-one would give her the start she buyer in India.” £56m, operating in 60 countries and needed, she began to think in terms of And that was the €25,000 deal that got with permanent offices in the USA, starting her own business from scratch. PG Paper off the ground. Sweden, Turkey and China as well as “I didn’t know where to start so I threw Growth has been remarkable since, as the UK and India. But where did the myself into research. I asked questions has Poonam’s profile as an drive to start her business come from? of everyone – and kept on asking.” entrepreneur, a role model for women Born and educated in Delhi, India, It soon became clear to her that there in succeeding in a male-dominated Poonam earned an Honours degree in was a gathering momentum behind the sector and as a philanthropist; her Economics and an MBA in International recycling sector and the more she charitable work, particularly focused Business and Marketing before moving investigated it, the more she thought around women’s rights and education, to Scotland in 2002 to marry her she could enter this sector, with paper is as high-profile as PG Paper. husband, Puneet. The marriage and as her major resource. Once off and running, did growth move were soon overshadowed by “I had no knowledge about recycling come easy? “No. The paper sector is a sadness, however, as Poonam’s mum or paper but I taught myself. I very ‘old’ industry and many of the died just a week after arriving in her new researched the sector completely. The major players have been established for homeland. “I had to go back to India for catalyst was discovering that India was a generations. It was very hard to the funeral and stayed a month to net importer of paper and that its convince people to allow a newcomer grieve. When I came back to Scotland I standards for paper were often lower into the market. was not in a good place; I was unsettled, than those in western nations. That “At first I was almost a curiosity;

12 WWW.IOD.COM who’s this Asian woman who’s so keen to do business with us? It took a while to get face-to-face with mill owners in the West so I could make my pitch but once I did, I found people were really professional and I never felt marginalised.” It helped that Poonam had something to offer. “I needed a USP and I focused on service. We had to deliver what we promised clients: fast responses to queries, swift turnaround on products, great communication. We took products the paper mills were struggling to sell and found buyers in countries outside their usual markets. Western mills had huge amounts of paper that could be sold on to emerging markets in Egypt, Turkey and India.” That focus on service paid off – and it’s still serving the company well. “When people ask me what I’m most proud of about PG Paper, one of the main things is that a lot of those clients from my earliest days are still with me.” One of the biggest ironies was that her homeland was the toughest nut to crack – but Poonam was prepared for that. “Growing up in India I’d seen the barriers placed in front of women when they wanted to build a career. When I faced them in business, it didn’t bother me. I was used to it so took it in my stride. I stayed patient, made sure I was the best researched person in the room and earned people’s respect by being on top of the subject. Pretty soon any barriers in front of me starting to come down.” “My values made me stand out: transparency, honesty, great communication. “If you wanted to know what PG Paper’s core values are – and there are probably too many to name – it would be those three attributes. “I drum it into my people, ‘we are a service to our customers’. That’s our focus.” It’s almost an old-fashioned ethic and, in these days of instant but faceless connections, her refrain of open communication throughout the process is refreshing. “I tell all my staff, if there is a problem, pick up the phone and talk about it. Communication is vital. “I put people into positions of authority that I trust. At some point, the proverbial will hit the fan. It always does. Things go wrong. Deal with it. Don’t hide, don’t blame others. I give you responsibility to be a leader in your country, your office, your section, so show leadership. Own the problem and deal with it.” Continued on page 14

WWW.IOD.COM 13 Leadership interview: Poonam Gupta obe

Continued from page 13 Her company’s rapid growth has been driven by her own high standards but she’s adamant that she has no time for top-down micro-management of her team. “I need my people to take responsibility. They have to be accountable for their actions and be independent. When I take on people I look for a sense of autonomy, someone whom I trust, who has integrity and won’t hide when things go wrong. I hate incompetence but I hate people who run away from problems more.” What makes a good leader? “Someone who puts other people first. We are so tech-heavy in today’s world we are losing the personal touch. You have to treat people right, be clear about what you want, what the ambitions and targets are, and give them the confidence that they trust you to back them.” A recent awards citation saw Poonam described as a female entrepreneur ‘that other women could be proud of’. Why would someone say that? “I’ve no idea,” she laughs. “It’s a nice thing for someone to say about me but I don’t think of myself in those terms. “More seriously, I’d rather people think of me as someone who just kept on plugging away, wouldn’t take no for an answer and was determined to prove herself. Persistence and confidence are hugely important in business; don’t give up. “If people want to describe me as a role model for other women, fair enough, but I’d much rather there were more women taking the plunge and setting up their own businesses.” It’s a point she’s keen to reinforce. “We need more women to start “At some point, the proverbial will hit the businesses, to be entrepreneurs. I read somewhere that if women in Scotland fan. It always does. Things go wrong. Deal started their own businesses at the same rate as men, it would boost the economy with it. Don’t hide, don’t blame others. by £7.6bn. We need to act on that. “I’ve been privileged in that I’ve seen Own the problem and deal with it.” life in two cultures – East and West – and this has helped give me a sense of balance. I’ve seen the good and bad from both and this has helped me understand when barriers are being put in front of me and how to gently knock of family hold you back. Even now, born (she has two daughters, now 14 them down.” women are still seen as having the main and 12), I couldn’t leave her behind so I Why can’t more women ‘knock them responsibility for the family. It’s them took her with me on business. I’d tell the down’, as she’s done? “I think it’s a lack who look after the children when they’re paper mills I was visiting that I was a of confidence. It stops some women born, or care for older relatives. Even for working mum with a baby and I’d be from taking the plunge and starting someone like me, who was very career- bringing her along to the meeting. their own businesses.” focused, it was a huge wrench to leave “People were really understanding. I “And even when they do, too often, my children to go on business. Men are counted up once and my daughter did female entrepreneurs don’t grasp the still generally seen as the main 17 round the world trips with me when opportunities in front of them and look breadwinners.” she was a baby. I joke with her now to scale their businesses; once they’re Indeed, it was so hard that for a time, about how many countries she’s visited up and running they think that they’ve Poonam didn’t leave the children – but she can’t remember much about finished and stop pushing.” behind… “Something I always any of them!” Why does she think that is? “Demands remember, after my first daughter was Can society break this unhealthy

14 WWW.IOD.COM circle, which traps mums into leaving “I was told very early on, ask questions and if the careers behind when they start a family? “We can if we offer working mums more person you ask doesn’t know the answer, ask them support. Don’t get me wrong, Scotland and the UK are great places to do who will know... you’ll be surprised by how helpful business – I’ve been all round the world and few countries are as good – and people can be...” there is help, but there could be more. There should be support in the community so people can have children and build a modern paper industry? “We’ve got to “We’ve seen a huge fall in paper for strong career at the same time.” face up to our impact on the newsprint, as newspaper and magazine What’s the best advice she could give environment. Paper used to be known circulations fall. But at the same time anyone looking to start their own as a dirty industry but it’s cleaned up its there’s been a rise in demand for business? “Oh, that’s easy: do your act hugely in recent years. The forestry packaging grades, as more people buy homework. And ask questions. I asked management techniques used are all online and have the goods home everyone I met for advice. I even rang focused on sustainability – the idea that delivered. HMRC!” we harvest a tree but plant more for the “The secret – like with all businesses – The taxman...? “Yes, they were really future. We’ve got a duty to put back for is to keep innovating and stay ahead of helpful. They were a bit surprised – I later generations. the curve of change.” don’t think many people ring the “Trust me, the paper industry is very And will that change ever see us usher taxman for advice, they normally run focused on reaching ‘net zero’ on in that Holy Grail of technology, the away from them! – but they were great.” carbon emissions. We understand the entirely paperless office? “Not in PG “Something I was told very early on politics of climate change and there’s Paper – it would feel like a betrayal,” was to ask questions and if the person been a lot of action taken on reducing Poonam laughs. you ask doesn’t know the answer, ask emissions and eliminating harmful “I’ll be honest: I couldn’t go paperless. them who will know. You’ll be surprised chemicals from the paper process.” If someone emails me, I may print it out. by how helpful people will be.” In addition, PG Paper, like the rest of I don’t like reading it on screen. Looking at her own business, what are the industry, is having to work hard to “But I should say we are very diligent the biggest challenges facing the reflect major changes in demand. about how we recycle!”

WWW.IOD.COM 15 Technical briefing: IT/Employment regulations

Let’s innovate to grow in 2020

The Fourth Industrial Revolution brings with it the prospect of keenly anticipated opportunities, but companies need help to navigate what can seem an endless barrage of technological innovations, writes industry commentator Bill Magee...

Industry 4.0 can be summed up through the realisation that it embraces high- tech developments – including some that have not yet fully hit the marketplace – but which ones are most suited for your commercial needs? The latest Consumer Electronics Show (CES), staged at Silicon Valley’s A lack of boundaries can be a problem DevOps is about culture change. People playground Las Vegas, hasn’t really as disruption – whether in the form of and process re-engineering, then the helped matters. Unless you’re in the the business model or the technology technology.” market for a waterproof handheld itself – comes from any angle, from any He says DevOps can provide faster camera that converts into a drone. Or corner of the world. software releases, greater levels of into the latest batch of auto-tech Best not to get left behind because optimisation to reduce costs, and it can offerings – as if more screens, sensors your organisation is no longer lead to lower infrastructure and support and audio/immersive entertainment competing with the business down the costs. It also really joins with an systems are needed as we concentrate street, even in the next city, but rather organisation’s cloud strategy. One major on motoring between clients. on a global scale. issue is that one size doesn’t fit all. Now, I bet some of you are asking: For the smaller organisation it may be “I’m ambitious for my enterprise, that’s Where does this leave us? that the most benefit is gained from a a given. But what’s all this smart tech As a starting point a business could cloud systems approach, whereas for stuff got to do with my day-to-day consider a software-driven option to larger companies gaining business operations?” give it a new source of competitive benefit from a DevOps strategy and When it comes to the gamechangers, advantage. Such an approach can subsequent implementation. everything really. Like artificial ensure an organisation remains agile Like all plans you need to know where intelligence (AI), quantum computing, and improves the customer experience. you are today and where you want to be. automation/robotics, Internet of Things There remains a growing need in the If you’re not entirely sure of the future, (IoT) plus burgeoning 5G marketplace to increase the frequency then his advice is to get some help early telecommunications networks. and quality of such options. Leading the and see what options exist. A few short years ago a business might way is DevOps where releases across an James Shoesmith, co-founder and have got by, hoping for the commercial organisation’s life cycle can support CEO of The Startup Race, emphasises best as it equipped a few key personnel both digital customer-facing systems that the key to advancing in Industry 4.0 with smartphones and iPads, all and large-scale enterprise products. can be summed up in one word: “simplicity”, supposedly supported by an often-out- DevOps was born out of difficulties adopting a creative approach towards of-date static website and sporadic encountered over challenging data garnering resources for an enterprise to social media activity. migration projects and persuading achieve more with less. Also, when things go wrong, expecting skilled teams to work better together. This serial entrepreneur and adviser the individual in charge of IT to In essence, the term represents a set to fast growth start-ups maintains the magically fix things, like tomorrow. of practices that combines software secret of success centres on planning. But those days are well gone... development and information To ensure the right resources for a Gillian Docherty, CEO of The Data technology operations. particular organisation are sourced Lab, recently told The Scotsman that the The aim is to shorten systems saving time and money in the process. tools are in Scotland’s DNA, only as long development life cycles and produce a as everyone is brought along with continuous high software delivery to the Industry 4.0. But it’s not without its lasting benefit of the organisation. ‘Best not to get left behind challenges. The question is how the business because your organisation is Such is the lightning fast pace of leader watching every penny justifies no longer competing with change that it’s difficult for businesses such an investment. Here they should the business down the to “spot and leverage” opportunities assess their current DevOps capability. street, even in the next quickly enough before the landscape Institute Fellow Scott McGlinchey, city, but rather on a global changes again. CEO of Exception, told me: “For me scale,’ says Bill Magee

16 WWW.IOD.COM IR35 rules change: How you can prepare for the inevitable

Are you prepared for crucial changes to the way the IR35 system operates, asks Victoria McMeel, Vistra Corporate Law

With a month until the changes to IR35 “reasonable care” when making a Status companies which engage PSCs directly come into force, all medium to large Determination Statement) will see the and companies which merely benefit companies in the private sector need to contractor’s tax and NIC liabilities from the services provided by a PSC determine the tax status of their become the engaging company’s both understand their new obligations. contractors, or risk financial liabilities. responsibility. On 6 April the responsibility for IR35 What is a Status Determination compliance shifts from the personal Quick Recap: What is IR35? Statement (SDS)? service companies (‘PSCs’) via which IR35 is the name given to the UK tax An SDS is a document which sets out many contractors operate and onto the rules which cover off-payroll working. an engaging company’s determination companies which engage or pay them. The rules are designed to regulate the as to the IR35 (tax) status of a contractor The changes to IR35 require engaging use of PSCs and combat ‘disguised (ie, whether they are a deemed employee companies to provide Status employment’. or a contractor). Crucially, it must Determination Statements (see below) Being out of scope of IR35 means a include reasons for that determination. to their contractors. All companies that contractor’s PSC will continue to receive The requirement that “reasonable meet two of the following three criteria fees gross. The PSC is then responsible care” must be taken when making an will be subject to the new rules: for relevant tax deductions. SDS means a specific assessment is • An annual turnover of more than Being in scope of IR35 means that a necessary in respect of each contractor, £10.2 million; contractor is deemed as an employee taking into account the day-to-day • A balance sheet total of more than for tax purposes and should be paid reality of their role. £5.1 million; and/or through the payroll, with deductions • More than 50 employees. being the responsibility of the company Practical Steps paying the PSC. Preparing for the changes to IR35 in UK subsidiaries where the parent Not all IR35 cases are simple, advance of 6 April 2020 is strongly company (including an overseas parent however. In some instances, third advisable. This includes: company) meets two of the above parties will form part of the contractual • Analysing day-to-day working criteria will also be subject to the new chain between the end-user client and relationships with contractors operating rules. the PSC. via PSCs; Failure to comply (or to take It is therefore important that • Beginning a consultation process with contractors; • Providing a Status Determination Many companies use Statement for each contractor operating contractors for via their own PSC; non-core activities, • Where appropriate, arranging for such as IT. But will contracts to be redrafted or job roles your use of them put redesigned; and you in breach of new • Anticipating likely challenges from IR35 regulations? contractors as to the determination that has been made. Engaging companies must respond to challenges within 45 days or will again be responsible for the contractor’s tax liability.

Vistra offers comprehensive business administration services, including tax and employment law advice. For more information contact our local Edinburgh office at edinburgh@vistra. com or call 0131 226 8280. The author, Victoria McMeel, is a Solicitor, Director at Vistra Corporate Law. Contact her at E: [email protected]

WWW.IOD.COM 17 Technical Briefing: Inclusivity/Media

True inclusion starts when everyone has a voice

Lynne Connolly outlines some of the Flip questions and use ‘why not?’ steps organisations should take to fully Think about the ways your working environment and decision-making could embrace inclusivity in every aspect of shift and what benefits this might bring. their operations – and highlights Use a neutral observer IoD Scotland’s own initiatives A neutral observer in team meetings can offer feedback on whether everyone is truly ‘at the table’. Progress in inclusion doesn’t happen To maximise this, we created the overnight – it’s an evolving journey IoD Scotland Equality, Diversity and Value difference relying on sustained effort and Inclusion Group. A group of people Invite a colleague in to offer their everyone playing their part. with a shared interest with a mission to thoughts on a piece of work – this could It’s also a shared journey across every support organisations become more reveal something you hadn’t organisation in Scotland – regardless of inclusive in their everyday operations. considered. their size. As part of this, it is important There is a lot going on across Scotland for people to learn from and collaborate so we’re focusing on how we take that Hit the pause button after conversations with each other. This is will make the to the next stage. to challenge any talent or hiring decisions. real difference. Change needs to be By thinking about inclusion as systemic for it to consistently feel that something we can create together, we Change the language from ‘diversity is we are accessible, fair and inclusive. move from this being about business hard’ to asking questions like ‘am I But when there are so many leaders to diverse teams working really saying I want to work in a competing priorities for business together in the best way to generate homogenous team?’. leaders, how do we make sure that creative thinking. This will then And, if not, then to start asking what a ‘inclusion’ gets the attention it deserves? positively impact your customers and a next possible step can be. For me, inclusion is about the create a place your people feel they I was once taught that “all that’s ever everyday. It’s about the experience our belong. missing is a conversation”. I think it’s people have inside our companies and something we should all think about. whether they want to continue working So, how do we do that? It doesn’t have So, I put this to you - what can you do to with us. It’s about being the companies to be overly complicated. There are start more meaningful conversations in that we want to be. And it’s much more some little nudges that can be made your organisation? than just another item on the agenda to which can make a difference. For report progress against. It’s what example: The IoD Scotland Equality, Diversity engages, inspires and drives people and Inclusion Group will be providing every day – and that’s a commercial case Have a conversation as a team advice around inclusion in each issue of in itself. Taking 15 minutes to take stock of the Direction this year. If there is a topic Last year, the IoD added a Director of environment and how you can become you would like them to explore, please the Year for Inclusivity award to its more inclusive is a great place to start. contact [email protected]. annual recognition event. The collective It’s also a great way to understand each knowledge and experience of the other better. • Lynne Connolly is the Global Head of shortlisted nominees stood out, A small amount of time applied Diversity & Inclusion, Aberdeen alongside real drive and energy to consistently over the year can make a Standard Life and member of the quicken the scale and pace of change by significant different to how you and IoD Scotland Equality, Diversity and pushing forward together. your colleagues feel. Inclusion Group

The IoD Scotland Equality, Diversity and Inclusion Group includes: Professor Lynne Cadenhead, Chair, Women’s Enterprise Scotland; Amanda Jones Partner, Global Women’s Advancement, Dentons; and Jane Wood, UK Nations and Regions Director, BT Group

WWW.IOD.COM 17 18 Lesley Brydon offers a few tips on how to survive when your organisation is in the eye of a media storm When is a crisis

Lovely Pip Schofield has shown us how not a crisis? to release your news with grace, control and ultimately, success. He managed his story, its timing and his authentic message, and the world talked about it for five minutes, shrugged and got on Most of the with things. I’m not taking a direct business parallel from his story, but a nugget of inspiration. Getting in front of your story and telling it in your own words is time, actually crucial. Whether you need to defend your business or its leader from something on the horizon, or you might have decided to speak out about way, or at a different time? Does a something controversial or surprising particular stakeholder have a beef with – using your control while you have it is you and will use your predicament to a gamechanger. further their end? Although the term is often used, this Boil your message down to two or practice is NOT crisis management. three key points, make sure they hold This is issues management – something water and repeat them as often as which should be integrated into the possible – in communications with comms function of every organisation. stakeholders, customers, staff and Few businesses will encounter a true media. Challenge those messages within crisis – where a catastrophic event your board – so you are less likely to happens and in a moment the norm is become derailed. flipped upside down. Loss of life, If you’re going to be in the spotlight, property or trust is usually the at a stakeholder event, in front of a consequence, and the impact on major customer or even in a media organisational value can be significant. interview, be upfront. If you don’t know More often, we encounter issues that something, say so. If you don’t, you will are challenging, and can have an impact come over as evasive. Or, worse you’ll on business in a narrower sense. To deal make a stab in the dark. It’s fine to say with these, and stop them turning into a you don’t know the answer, if you full-blown crisis, there are some coping qualify with an offer to follow up. mechanisms. Most importantly, be nice. An First, can you fix whatever it is that’s aggressive, evasive business leader will causing the vexation? Start there. bring out the worst in others at what can At the same time, you need to be a defining moment. Humility and communicate with stakeholders. This personality (and not just switched on in choice of words isn’t an accident. a threat situation) can go a long way and Communicate with them – don’t wait make all the difference to the future until they communicate with you. And success of your business. remember your stakeholders fall into Phillip Schofield has been nice for different categories – customers, years, and so very few people have an suppliers, partners, media and most interest in bringing him down – now importantly, employees, who can be there’s a priceless lesson in a nutshell. your biggest advocates. Think about what they need to know, and tell them • Lesley Brydon is the MD/founder, ‘Crisis’ survivor: Phillip Schofield in a measured, informed way. You’ve Clark Communications started the ‘fix’ so you can include that in the message. Sometimes you just need to say sorry, and sometimes it goes further than that. Whichever it is – don’t “If you don’t know something, say so. If hide from it. you don’t, you will come over as evasive. Know the numbers, the reasons this issue is affecting your business, or Or, worse, you’ll make a stab in the dark. theirs, and know what you’re doing to It’s fine to say you don’t know the answer, address the situation. Check your blind spot – does the situation you are in have if you qualify with an offer to follow up... ” the potential to bite you in a different Lesley Brydon (right) Technical Briefing: Insights

Think locally, succeed globally – and learn to let go of the reins

“Too many good people leave places like Dundee and Scotland in search of diamonds in other parts of the world. The diamonds we seek are under our own feet. We have all the resources, skills and gifts that we need right here – we can be global from Scotland.”

Almost 30 years ago, Insights Group your product offering, but rather the Chief Executive Andy Lothian left the underlying reason why customers buy City of London to build a business with from you. his father Andi Lothian in his hometown Identifying your organisation’s of Dundee. From a humble two-man unique value proposition and what operation, the Insights Group is now specific customer need your business one of Scotland’s, fastest growing and satisfies allows entrepreneurs to develop most successful businesses. focused marketing, sales, and delivery Andy’s success can be attributed to strategies. his entrepreneurial spirit, and desire to develop local talent. He said: “Insights 3) Evaluate more than financial results has a unique approach to business The measures for organisational because we start from the inside out performance have long revolved around – we see and develop the whole person. financial success, namely revenue and This allows us to grow our talent from profit. But by considering the voice of within, create better experiences for our the customer also, businesses can gauge people and customers, and build a how they are delivering on their globally successful business.” customer promise – and create trans- Ahead of this year’s IoD Scotland formational, rather than transactional, Director of the Year Awards (see page experiences. 24), and in celebration of Insights’ support of the Young Director category, 4) Invest in your people Andy has prepared a short list of Some leaders are concerned about principles that have supported him investing time and money in developing through the years. The ‘what’ is important, too, as long their people, only to have them leave the as it is connected to your ‘why?’ business. But what if we don’t invest in 1) Know who you are Management consultant Peter Drucker our people, and they stay? What kind of This isn’t meant to force entrepreneurs poses one of the most simple and organisations will we create then? into an existential crisis. Insights’ work profound questions for entrepreneurs to Truly, to enable organisational is based, in part, on the principles of contemplate: “What business are you success, entrepreneurs must learn to let Swiss psychologist Carl Jung and the in?” go of the reins and empower each premise that self-awareness underpins While the answer may seem obvious, person to play their part in growing the personal and professional growth. Just Drucker isn’t looking for the name of business. as self-aware individuals leverage their understanding of themselves to connect their intentions with improved performance, self-aware organisations can be intentional about the customers they pursue and those they don’t. 2) Understand why you do what you do “Truly, to enable organisational success, Your customers don’t buy what you entrepreneurs must learn to let go of the do. They buy why you do what you do. A compelling purpose is the starting point reins and empower each person to play of entrepreneurial success. their part in growing the business...”

20 WWW.IOD.COM WWW.IOD.COM 21 The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links

Magnificent Machrie offers a golfing break like no other Golf has been played at The Machrie The Stag Lounge since 1891. First created by Willie features stunning Campbell, the course was famous, views over the course some might say infamous, for the number of “blind” shots incorporated into the design. All of which contributed hugely to the charm and challenge of the original 6,254-yard lay-out. Set in the dunes of Islay, Queen of the Hebrides, the course has now been fully modernised by D J Russell, the former European Ryder Cup Vice Captain and PGA tour player. There is a reason why the Scots invented golf on links land, Machrie land, and the links turf on which the course sits is among the finest in Scotland. The dramatic setting of An Executive Laggan Bay and the sand dunes has few Room with patio equals, and with the ever-changing fairway towards the ocean. nature of the challenge offered by this Dining options include our acclaimed layout, it’s time you played restaurant and bar, known simply as the Machrie! ‘18’, located on the first floor of the In addition to The Machrie Links hotel with outdoor terrace, offering there are also wonderful additional golf panoramic views of the ocean and golf facilities. The Wee Course is a six-hole course, while a private dining room will par 3 course where there are a appeal to those looking for a more multitude of options of which holes to intimate dining experience. play, while the Hebrides Putting Green Other hotel facilities include a 30-seat is an acre of sublime naturally courses from around the world on the cinema; a function room ideal for board contoured putting surface, ideal for all golf simulator. meetings and private dinners, and our levels, whether golfer or not. Whether you’re just looking to boutique health and wellness facilities There is no shortage of practice explore this stunning island, home to – PureGray Spa & Gym – which offers a facilities at The Machrie, including a some of the world’s finest whiskies, range of massages, facials, manicures Driving Range with five covered bays birdlife, seafood and dramatic coastal and pedicures; sauna and 24hr gym. and an outside hitting area. Putting seascapes, or you’re taking on the greens and chipping green will give you challenge of our championship links Want to know more? taste of what’s to come on the Links, an golf course, The Machrie will be the Interested in a spell at a golfing ideal place to warm up before play. perfect place to start your stay. paradise? Then contact: There is also a teaching studio with the An 18th century converted The Machrie Hotel & Golf Links, latest in Trackman 4 and video farmhouse, The Machrie boasts 47 Port Ellen, Isle of Islay PA42 7AN technology. This can be used for stylish rooms, suites and lodges. Each Tel: 01496 302310 lessons with our resident PGA room has been tastefully decorated, Email: [email protected] Professional, David Foley, or to play many with fabulous views over the Website: www.themachrie.com

The Machrie course offers an ever-changing challenge

22 WWW.IOD.COM

IoD Scotland: Awards

The winning line-up from the 2019 Awards

It’s all down to the judges as IoD searches for Directors of the Year Entries are now closed for the 2020 IoD Heriot-Watt University, which is carrying Chairman’s Award. Scotland Director of the Year Awards, out due diligence on behalf of the IoD. Winners of the Scotland national with attention now turning to who will Director categories will be entered into make our prestigious shortlist for the Awards categories are: the IoD’s UK Awards. awards ceremony on May 21. n Equality, Diversity & Inclusion In addition, IoD Scotland runs a The awards were launched in 2004 to n Family Business number of regional awards, with each recognise and celebrate leadership and n Innovation submission entered into the relevant excellence at director level within the n International regional category based on business private, public and voluntary sectors n Non-Executive address; winners and finalists for each across the length and breadth of n Public Sector region will be decided by the Branch Scotland. They celebrate and focus on n Social Value and Sustainability Impact Committees. recent achievement of Scotland’s n Start-up The shortlist will be announced on individual leaders. n Third Sector April 9, with the Awards Ceremony on We’ve had an excellent response across n Young May 21 at the DoubleTree by Hilton all categories, and our judging panel (see n Large Business Glasgow Central. (See facing page for page 26) is now reviewing all entries, n Small/Medium Business ticket details) assisted by Edinburgh Business School, There will also be a specially selected

Book your Awards sponsors place now Book online at www.iod.com/ events- community/ regions/ scotland or contact Joyce or Alice for further information: awards@ firstcityevents.co.uk or call 01577 865498.

24 WWW.IOD.COM Join us at the 2020 Awards

The 2019 Awards ceremony

The winners of the IoD Scotland Director opportunity – why not bring a table of canapés, three-course meal with wine of the Year Awards will be revealed at a business colleagues and guests? Ticket (half-bottle per person) and black tie Ceremony & Dinner on prices for 2020 have been kept at 2019 entertainment. DoubleTree by Hilton Thursday, May 21 at the DoubleTree by rates: Hotel Glasgow Central (Cambridge Hilton Glasgow Central. This evening of n £130 + vat IoD members Street) is offering special room rates for celebration will be hosted by award- n £150 + vat IoD non-members guests staying the night. winning radio and tv presenter Grant n £1,250 + vat Table of 10 Contact the hotel direct for details, Stott and is an excellent networking Ticket price includes drinks reception, quoting IoD Scotland.

About our Awards category sponsors

Highlands and Islands premier private client firms with offices Director of the Year – Young Regional Director Award in Edinburgh, Glasgow and London, Sponsored by Insights Learning and Sponsored by Highlands and providing clients with an integrated set of Development Islands Enterprise legal services alongside a complete range Insights is a global leader in self- Highlands and Islands Enterprise (HIE) is of tax advice. awareness and people development the Scottish Government’s economic and Our success is due to a continued focus solutions. It uses a simple and accessible community development agency for the on meeting the needs of individuals, model of personality type based on the north and west of Scotland, covering a families, charities, entrepreneurs and work of Swiss psychologist Carl Jung and diverse region from Shetland to Argyll, family business owners. a broad range of psychometric models of and from the Outer Hebrides to Moray. We believe that this joined-up, increasing depth. Insights creates more Our purpose is to generate sustainable interdisciplinary approach of combining effective teams by helping people better economic growth across the Highlands legal and tax skills and expertise sets understand themselves and others, and Islands, making it a successful and Turcan Connell’s solicitors apart and communicate with impact through the competitive region in which increasing enables us to provide the very best advice framework of a common language, and numbers of people choose to live, work, and counsel to our clients. tackle pressing business challenges, study and invest. putting people right at the heart of Director of the Year – Innovation solving issues. Director of the Year – Third Sector Sponsored by Scottish Government Sponsored by the Scottish Council for Scotland CAN DO is our statement of Director of the Year - Social Value & Voluntary Organisations (SCVO) intent towards becoming a world-leading Sustainability Impact The SCVO is the national membership entrepreneurial and innovative nation. Sponsored by Zero Waste Scotland body for Scotland’s vibrant voluntary We want businesses in Scotland to Zero Waste Scotland exists to lead the use sector. We champion the sector, provide increase their level of innovation and of products and resources responsibly, services and debate big issues. We’re realise their growth ambitions, creating focusing on where we can have the passionate about what the voluntary jobs and wealth across the country. greatest impact on climate change. sector can achieve. Along with our Our Innovation Action Plan is Using evidence and insight, our goal is community of 2,000+ members, we supporting innovation in businesses, to inform policy, and motivate believe that charities, social enterprises sectors and places, using public sector individuals and businesses to embrace and voluntary groups make Scotland a spend to catalyse innovation, and making the environmental, economic, and social better place. best use of research, knowledge and benefits of a circular economy. talent to drive innovation and growth. We are a not-for-profit organisation, Director of the Year – Family Business Scotland can rise to the global funded by the Scottish Government and Sponsored by Turcan Connell challenges facing us and shape a highly the European Regional Development Turcan Connell is one of the UK’s successful future for all. Fund. More on awards - see overleaf WWW.IOD.COM 25 IoD Scotland: Awards

1 2 3 4 5 6 Awards judging panel

Our Awards judging panel is Scottish Government and COSLA in drawn from the highest What are the judges policy and local government in HR. looking for? Anna is on the Who Cares? Scotland echelons of Scotland’s business board. leadership community. The IoD’s philosophy is to set standards for directors, 7 Margaret Gibson obe 1 Raymond O’Hare encouraging entrepreneurial Deputy Chief Executive, EY Foundation activity and promoting responsible Independent Non-Executive Advisor/ The EY Foundation is a charity business practice, so that we all Director, OC Solutions working with young people, particularly become better leaders. Chair of the 2020 Judging Panel those from disadvantaged backgrounds, Effective, dynamic, ambitious and Raymond works with ambitious SMEs, sourcing routes into employment and creative leaders deserve either as NXD or an advisor to their education, or in setting up a business. recognition – and that’s what our boards. He speaks regularly at judges are searching for. They are conferences on leadership, technology 8 Iain Gulland also looking for people who meet trends and the importance of Chief Executive, Zero Waste Scotland the criteria set by respected senior innovation. Zero Waste Scotland leads on the experienced directors, reflecting Raymond is a former Director of delivery of the Scottish Government’s the IoD Competency Framework. Microsoft Scotland and Chairman of the Circular Economy strategy and other IoD in Scotland, and is current Chair of low carbon policy priorities and is at the the charity ProjectScotland. forefront of efforts to create a resource (Doctor of Business Administration) efficient, circular economy. 2 Tim Allan Programme. He has enjoyed a career in Private Equity and Property the professional sector as a statistician 9 Poonam Gupta obe Entrepreneur / President, Scottish and consultant, in addition to a career Founder & Chief Executive, Chambers of Commerce in academia. PG Paper Company Ltd Tim is a private equity and property Poonam is a Scottish-Indian entrepreneur with many outside 5 Gillian Docherty obe Entrepreneur and Philanthropist. In philanthropic interests. He owns Chief Executive, The Data Lab 2003, Poonam founded PG Paper Unicorn Property Group which has The Data Lab is an innovation centre Company Ltd and has developed the been particularly involved in the with a mission of maximising the value business into a hugely successful and regeneration of the Dundee waterfront. for Scotland from data. The Data Lab globally recognised brand, exporting to facilitates partnerships between over 55 countries across the globe. 3 Shirley C Campbell industry and academia, supporting data Director for People, Scottish Water science and artificial intelligence 10 Mike Kane As Director for People, Shirley projects as well as funding and running Partner, Head of Business Law believes that Scottish Water, as a major first class, ground-breaking education Mike is a corporate lawyer and leads employer in Scotland, has a programmes. Turcan Connell’s Business Law Team responsibility to help people develop which provides a broad range of skills and capabilities which support the 6 Anna Fowlie commercial, transaction and banking/ sustainability of the business and can Chief Executive, Scottish Council for funding services. take back into their communities. Voluntary Organisations SCVO Mike also leads the Turcan Connell Anna has been the Chief Executive of Family Business Team, a large 4 Dr Jesus Canduela the (SCVO) since April 2018. Before that, interdisciplinary team within Turcan Head of DBA Programme, Edinburgh she was the Chief Executive of the Connell providing legal and tax Business School, Heriot-Watt University Scottish Social Services Council for nine solutions to family and privately owned Dr Canduela is the Head of DBA years, and before that worked in businesses and their owners.

7 8 9 10 11

26 WWW.IOD.COM 12 13 14 15 16

11 Andy Lothian 13 David Oxley 15 Theresa Shearer CEO, The Insights Group and Co-founder, Director of Business Growth, Highlands Group CEO, The Piper Group & Insights Learning and Development and Islands Enterprise ENABLE Scotland Andy worked as an analyst for NM Highlands and Islands Enterprise, Theresa is Group CEO of The Piper Rothschild in London before (HIE) is the economic and community Group and ENABLE Scotland and is also rediscovering his passion for people development agency for the North of the Vice Convener of the Scottish development and returning to Dundee Scotland. Council for Voluntary Organisations to co-found Insights with his father, Andi David’s responsibilities include (SCVO). Lothian Snr, in 1993. Insights is now a working with and supporting ambitious Theresa leads The Piper Group, an global leader in self-awareness and businesses to grow, attracting new innovative charity launched in order to people development and works with companies to the region, and accelerate change in improving the lives some of the biggest brands to help their progressing key sectoral opportunities of disabled people and the dedicated people better understand themselves for the Highlands and Islands in areas staff who care for them. and others, communicate with impact, such as Energy, Space and Technology. and tackle pressing business challenges. 16 David Watt 14 Professor Robert Raeside Chair, Fife College & Scottish Forum on 12 Aidan O’Carroll Edinburgh Business School, National Capital Steering Group Tax Partner, EY / Chair, IoD Scotland Heriot-Watt University David is also a Director of Systamac Aidan O’Carroll is a senior tax partner Robert works in the Edinburgh Ltd, an online evaluation tool that at EY, based out of Glasgow. Formerly Business School of Heriot-Watt assesses corporate governance Head of Tax for EY in the UK, Aidan has University providing support to compliance, and a Non-Executive advised both local and global companies Doctorate of Business Administration Director of BGR training who develop across a wide spectrum of tax and policy students. He is a statistician by fitness equipment. David was Executive issues around the world. background and is a Chartered Director of the IoD Scotland for 15 years, Aidan is the current Chair of IoD Statistician with the Royal Statistical stepping down last year after growing Scotland. Society. the institute in both size and influence.

WWW.IOD.COM 27 Membership benefits

Make the most of your IoD membership IoD membership comes with a host of benefits – on travel, on hotels, accommodation and meeting rooms as well as business services.

Facilities/Locations n Carnegie Conference Centre, The new Free access to IoD lounges at the Dunfermline, Fife. IoD base following sites, plus special discounts n London – 116 Pall Mall + many in on meeting rooms and other services centres around the UK, including Aberdeen n IoD Scotland, 10 Charlotte Square Manchester and Birmingham. n 200 SVS – Glasgow Hub n Forth Valley College Stirling Hub Travel and Parking n The Centre for Entrepreneurship n Discounted parking (£10.30 for eight – Elevator, Dundee hours - Castle Terrace car park) for See this feature for more details on n Citibase Business Centre - members using 10 Charlotte Square specific benefits, or contact the Aberdeen (pictured), Queen’s Road – contact the IoD office on 0131 557 IoD office on 0131 557 5488, or via and Hill of Rubislaw 5488 for information. [email protected].

Emirates exclusive IoD Escape the hassle: DragonPass access Skywards upgrade to airport lounges Emirates is delighted to offer IoD IoD members can enjoy access to over 1,000 Scotland members a one tier Skywards airport lounges worldwide with DragonPass. boost either from Skywards Blue to Escape the noise and bustle of the airport Silver or Skywards Silver to Gold. departure lounge and make full use of the This boost offers priority check-in and dead time before a flight by catching up on boarding, additional guaranteed work in a professional but relaxing check-in baggage allowance, environment. complimentary standard seats, bonus service, expedited DragonPass is the world’s first all-in-one mileage accrual and access to our check-in, digital airport platform, offering travellers the Business class lounges in Dubai* dedicated ability to locate and access over 1,000 airport To claim please email baggage handling lounge and restaurant discounts – all within a [email protected] and luxurious lounges ensuring a single mobile platform. Please remember to quote your seamless journey from start to finish* For IoD members there is no annual Emirates booking reference and Emirates has dedicated First & membership fee (usually £68). You will need Skywards membership number. Business Class lounges in over 35 to pre-purchase credit tokens for you and Emirates operates 20 flights a day cities worldwide along with several in your guests or family at £20 per person. from 8 UK airports: London Heathrow, Dubai. Our premium customers Children under 2 go free and other age Gatwick, and Stansted, Birmingham, departing Glasgow have access to our concessions are subject to individual lounge Manchester, Newcastle, Glasgow and dedicated Emirates Lounge whilst conditions (all available on the app). Edinburgh. The services offer seamless those departing from Edinburgh can More at www.iod.com/services/meeting- connections to 158 destinations in 84 enjoy the luxury of the No 1 lounge. spaces-and-lounges/airport-lounges countries. On-board, passengers can enjoy the Emirates world-class * T’s & C’s service, including regionally inspired Skywards card boosts are valid for 1 year. gourmet cuisine and over 4,500 Tier miles must be maintained to retain channels of award-winning digital status level. Repeat upgrades cannot be widescreen entertainment. Plus approved. Complimentary chauffeur car phone, SMS and WIFI connectivity transfers are available within a 50 mile from every seat. radius of Edinburgh and Glasgow airports, On the ground, First and Business anywhere within the UAE and variable at a Class passengers can take advantage selection of destination airports. See of the complimentary Chauffeur Car emirates.com/uk for further information. UK-wide Member Benefits All members of the IoD can take Liability Insurances and Business Sales, n Personal Private Health Insurance advantage of exclusive business Acquisitions and Strategy Services n Cyber & date Risk Insurance services: PLUS n International Payments Information and Advice - Business n Car and Van Hire Information Service n Professional Indemnity Insurance Influencing policy – Policy Voice n Research - Guidance - Advisory n Home and Contents Insurance IoD Policy represents your views Tax Line - Law Express n Health & Wellbeing Services across the key areas of public policy. Personal and Business Services at n Office Insurance Get your message through - join Policy preferential rates, including Directors n Private Client Insurance Voice at [email protected]

28 WWW.IOD.COM Diesel 24 Fuelcard Scotrail 1st Class Upgrade Diesel 24 is an independent distributor for Shell, Esso, Texaco, UK All IoD members can upgrade their seat on • purchase rail tickets online through the Fuels and Key Fuels cards and ScotRail to First Class. ScotRail Leisure Site, paying by card at the provides fuel management solutions To access this special offer: time of booking. Tickets will then upload to business. All IoD members receive Apply for an individual Smart Card through onto the Smart Card when they present the a fixed weekly discounted rate for the ScotRail Leisure Site, this process will card at a Platform Validator or Gateline. their fuel. Card fees will be waived for take about 7-10 days from application to • buy a ticket from a Ticket Vending IoD members. The main benefits of receipt of card, and will require the IoD Machine (TVM) at the Station. When you the unique deal for members member to upload their photograph. buy from a TVM the ticket is uploaded • Fixed weekly discounted rate for fuel https://www.scotrail.co.uk/tickets/ immediately. • HMRC-approved invoice saving you smartcard • Smart Card should be presented to on valuable time. • Once the IoD Member receives their Smart train staff along with the IoD Membership • No annual card charges Card, they should contact Elaine Card to qualify for the 1st Class Upgrade. • No administration charges Chester (details below) to register their • If an IoD member is looking to open a • No non-usage or under-usage charges Smart Card number and contact ScotRail Business Travel Account for • No minimum spend details. This will also allow Elaine to contact employee rail travel, contact Elaine Chester • Access to our network which covers IoD members in the future when Account via [email protected] all Shell, Esso, Texaco, Gulf, Keyfuels, Based Travel is available. SEE MEMBERSHIP BENEFITS PACK FOR FULL Terms UK Fuels, Fastfuels, Gleaner, Topaz, IoD Members can then: and Conditions Morrisons, Co-op, Moto and Tesco • Designated Account Manager • Your own online account • No contracts – Change cards Smart PA - outsourced admin support for business anytime SmartPA is a market leader in reporting, supporting delegation and The Diesel 24 fuelcards save you time outsourced administrative, personal providing full visibility of any need to and money. assistant and business support services. scale up or down depending on your It frees business leaders from day-to-day requirements. Even if you are using a fuelcard management and administrative tasks As an exclusive benefit for IoD members, already get in touch and see how that can hold them back, leaving them to we are offering an 20% increase of much you can save: focus on their core business. support with our regular package hours. E [email protected] or Smart PA creates a tailor-made package See smart-pa.com or contact us on 0845 [email protected]. to suit your needs, including weekly 241 3372, quoting your IoD number. Alternatively, call 0113 202 5119 Hotels and accommodation Preferential rates on food, beverages Central, Glasgow. • Eden Locke and accommodation have been secured • Kingsmill Hotel, Inverness • Yotel, Edinburgh. for members across Scotland within • Holiday Inn, Edinburgh • Lateral City Apartments Edinburgh, Glasgow, Aberdeen and • Malmaison Hotels: Aberdeen, Dundee, • Fountain Court Apartments. Inverness. Edinburgh and Glasgow • Hawksmoor Edinburgh • PH Hotels: Kimpton Charlotte Square • Locke Apartments Edinburgh; Kimpton Blythswood Square • Lateral City Apartments For T&Cs, full details and access, email Glasgow; Intercontinental on George • Mode Aparthotel, Edinburgh [email protected] or call us on Street, Edinburgh and Voco Grand • Angels Share Hotel, Edinburgh 0131 557 5488.

Where Now Consulting ready to help IoD members Where Now Consulting is a leading • A 10% discount management consultancy that • An online IoD members’ portal via • Business growth specialises in helping companies and the Where Now Consulting website, a • Mergers and acquisitions organisations to develop effective platform for interaction between IoD • Business performance improvement growth and operational plans, and to members and the Where Now • Market analysis and insights convert these into actions and results. Consulting team. For more details, call 0141 370 8999 IoD Scotland Member Benefits Our team of experts provide practical Email: [email protected] • One hour free consultancy or advice advice on: Web: www.wherenowconsulting.com

Work for Good Work for Good is an online platform charity, and start donating. The platform and inspire others to do the which makes it easy for smaller takes care of the legal admin needed same. businesses to donate to charities through when a business wants to link donations Use discount code their sales and helps them track to sales and promote their charities. IODWFG for a free Work donations, set targets and promote their Collectively businesses have the power for Good account for the giving. Businesses sign up, choose a to make a difference, engage customers first year.

WWW.IOD.COM 29

Events Diary

Members’ Connectivity Drinks Evening

All events run from 5-7pm Location: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh Thursday, March 26 Thursday, April 30 Thursday, May 28 Thursday, June 25

Our monthly drinks events are informal get togethers that are an ideal way for new members to meet the IoD team and their fellow members, while learning more about the IoD services and offer you can access. Existing members are more than welcome, too, particularly if you think you’re not using your membership fully. If you’ve a colleague who is thinking of joining, bring them along. We’ll be serving drinks and nobbles and best of all, this informal event is free “loD events are a great way to broaden your of charge. So come along to the IoD national office in network while picking up tips and advice Charlotte Square,. Edinburgh. from some of Scotland’s finest business leaders...” Learn & Lunch: Bid – and win! Event: How to Bid - and Win! • Creating winning bids Date: March 24 • Increasing bid win rates Time: 12noon -2pm Delegates will gain a clear Venue: Inverness Chamber of understanding of the value of strong bid Commerce, Inverness strategy and governance, and how CPD: 1.5 hours increasing bid win rates can lead to Prices: Member £15 + VAT transformational business growth. Member Guests £15 + VAT The event will open at 12noon for Non - Members £20 + VAT networking before lunch at 12.15-1.15pm, followed by Andrew’s presentation, time Hear from Andrew Morrison, founder for questions and networking. and BD Director of AM Bid, Scotland’s largest bidding and tender specialist, in a About our speaker bespoke bidding Masterclass for Andrew Morrison is a bidding professional Directors and Senior Leaders. who founded AM Bid, Scotland’s largest Andrew is also an IoD Scotland and multi-award winning bid and tender Winning bids, tenders and awards can Director of the Year Award Winner (2018). specialists in 2014. It has built a be transformational for a company’s AM Bid is Scotland’s largest bidding reputation for being the ‘go to’ specialists growth prospects and value. Andrew’s and tender specialist, sustaining 80%+ who can win bids in any sector. spike is his deep understanding of what win rates for its clients. They work with With staff across the UK and extensive clients want to see in bids and proposals. companies across Scotland, the wider UK experience in bidding to the public, He can confidently unpick both & Ireland, to develop winning bids for private and third sectors, they have plenty specifications and strategies to craft contracts in a broad range of sectors, of expert tips to pass on. winning bids. including Construction, Architecture, Repairs and Maintenance, Energy Efficiency, Mechanical and Electrical, Legal Services, Communications, IT and Finance. The Masterclass will cover: To book on any event, unless otherwise stated, • Bid strategy • Identifying and qualifying opportunities contact Ms Patricia Huth on 0131 557 5488 • Bid resourcing or email: [email protected] • Developing robust internal bid processes More details on IoD events at www.iod.com

32 WWW.IOD.COM Bridging the workplace age divide Event: Intergenerational working: The future workforce is now Date: March 25 Time: 7.45am - 9.30am Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh CPD: 1 hours Prices: Member £5 + VAT Non Members £5 + VAT By 2025, Millennials will make up 75 per cent of the workforce, yet many organisations are still grappling with the unique challenge of having four gener- ations in the workplace. Those that get this right will almost certainly gain competitive advantage. This talk will focus on young people (millennials/Gen Z) in the workplace and how to build a culture of better intergenerational working. Looking at some of the challenges that developing your young workforce can bring, along with tangible solutions that can help you encourage, develop and inspire a more diverse and unified workforce. We will open at 7.45am with coffee & pastries/networking and then begin our presentation at 8am, with plenty of time for questions and networking before our 9.30am close. intergenerational working and senior roles in London. supporting businesses on how best to Graham was nominated for the Robert Our speaker recruit, progress and retain their young Burns Humanitarian Awards 2018 and his Graham Robertson is a director of the talent. passion for young people and supporting charity ProjectScotland and runs its social He has over 12 years’ experience social mobility shines through in every enterprise - Get The Gen. Through Get working in the charity sector having aspect of his work. Before his charity The Gen he has developed a portfolio of previously worked with Amnesty career, Graham was a professional training services which focus on International and Plan International in footballer for Raith Rovers and Millwall. Digital economy: Opportunities for international growth

Event: Digital economy: The talks are concluded by the Q&A Opportunities for session, followed by ample networking international growth opportunities. Date: April 2 An inspirational evening for IoD Time: 6.30pm-8.30pm members and non-members, food & Venue: CodeBase Stirling, Stirling drinks are provided. CPD: 1.5 hours Prices: Members £15 + VAT CodeBase Stirling Members’ guests £15 + VAT We are delighted to be hosting the Non-Members £20 + VAT event at CodeBase Stirling. The IoD Central Scotland Committee A very dynamic and well-respected is delighted to present the second technology incubator, helping edition of its event, looking at the technology start-ups develop into the Digital economy and opportunities for embracing evolutions and next unicorn. international growth. opportunities in Digital Technology. This is an evening dedicated to the Our well experienced guest speakers Our Speakers and hosts fast-changing digital economy, where will touch in their business cases This event will be led by Ron we simply aim to inspire by example. around International growth on and Smith- Chair, IoD Central Scotland Business leaders can learn from how embracing the opportunities the Committee, and Alain Van Weert, lead shining examples of how businesses digital age, allowed them to grow on Digital Economy, IoD Central created opportunities for growth by beyond borders. Scotland Committee.

WWW.IOD.COM 33 Events Diary

IoD Masterclasses IoD Scotland’s Masterclasses are half-day workshops (9am-1pm) that aim to provide practical learning and focus on the different behaviours and skills needed to be effective on boards. Of relevance to individuals who are currently directors and those about to be appointed within the Private, Public and Third Sectors, this series is for those serious about their professional development. They can be taken alone or in conjunction with five other masterclasses. To book the complete series of six workshops for the price of five, please contact Ms Avril Gall at [email protected] Confident Leadership Leading innovation Date: April 22 Date : May 20 Time: 9am - 1pm Time: 9am - 1pm Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh CPD: 4 hours CPD: 4 hours Prices: Members £175 + VAT Prices: Members £175 + VAT Non Members: £195 + VAT Non Members: £195 + VAT Leaders stumble without confidence and ‘Creativity will be the biggest determinant organisations suffer as a result. What of company success this century’. So why confidence is and how can you get more is leave creativity to the artists? We are all the aim here. creative! Doing things differently to gain Also in this session the use of power as a edge, to gain business advantage is in the leader will be explored. grasp of all of us. Where it comes from and how best to But how to go about it is the challenge. deploy it will be a focus of this revelatory That’s why this workshop will address the workshop following challenges: What does it look like and why you might n The ability to come up with new ideas lack confidence? to move your business forward Who are you anyway? Personal profile n What happens when you have an and branding exercise ‘aha’ moment so you can have more of Power review with questionnaire and them personal feedback n Creating a work environment that The ingredients of confidence revealed helps ideas flow n Learning a quick and easy way to solve problems with your team Making an impact for n Twisting, noodling and hatching- the language of the new creatives! business presentations n Leading exciting meetings that Date : June 4 enjoyable experience. produce doable outcomes. Time: 9am - 1pm n What makes a good business Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh presentation? Workshop Leader: Ros Taylor CPD: 4 hours n The nature of body language- the Prices: Members £175 + VAT essential components to make an Ros Taylor is a leading UK and Non Members: £195 + VAT impressive impact? international clinical psychologist, n The Magic Process for speedily corporate and leadership coach. This workshop will show you how to building effective business She travels the world developing the put a presentation together speedily presentations leadership potential of employees without jeopardising quality, and how n An introduction to mind- mapping through her Just Leadership to stay relaxed enough to focus on the n How to involve an audience programme. Ros is a visiting professor audience –not your beating heart! It n Relaxation and visualising success at Strathclyde Business School will help participants present to any n The value of practice, practice, focusing on leadership and runs her size of group and have a rewarding, practice. own successful leadership and coaching business. Influencing others and handling challenging people

Date : May 6 n Time: 9am - 1pm you and all about those working with Working out who are your priorities Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh you. to influence Learn about the latest research which n The eight skills of influencing CPD: 4 hours n Prices: Members £175 + VAT reveals the persuasion techniques that The 5 Step Process for handling a Non Members: £195 + VAT really work. difficult person n The skills to handle even the most n Behavioural analysis using the Influencing skills are essential for good challenging people will be outlined and Interpersonal Influence Inventory leadership as the job ceases to be about practiced in this workshop. n Practising the skills for success

To book on IoD Scotland Director Development courses, contact Ms Avril Gall on 0131 557 5488 / [email protected]

34 WWW.IOD.COM DIRECTOR DEVELOPMENT COURSES

The Fundamental Role of the Trustee/ The Fundamental Director in the Third Sector Role of the Chair Date: March 23 constitutional position of Boards Date: April 2 Time: 9am - 5pm n The roles and responsibilities of Time: 9am - 5pm Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh Board Members/Trustees Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh CPD: 8.0 hours n What does corporate governance CPD: 8 hours Prices: Members £195 + VAT mean? Prices: Members £345 + VAT Non Members £250 + VAT n Examining the practicalities of Non Members £395 + VAT With levels of public scrutiny reaching oversight and delivery - challenge versus new levels, customer demand growing support This one-day workshop (9-5) explores and funding ever tighter, IoD Scotland is n Delivering value as a volunteer the fundamental roles and delivering a full day (9-5) workshop Board Member/Trustee responsibilities of the Chair. It will examining the specific role required of n Building a strong Board – dynamics, outline the theory of leading boards Trustees and Board Members of bodies teamwork and assessment and put this theory to the test in the Third Sector. through group discussion, workshops Workshop Benefits and case studies. The theory will Who should attend? You will have a deeper appreciation of assist delegates to develop their Exploring how board members need to the specific demands on a Board knowledge and understanding of the fulfil their role and maximise the value Member in the Third Sector and will take art of listening, group dynamics and they bring, this session is primarily away a range of concepts, tools and managing conflicts. designed for Third Sector Board techniques to help you perform your members who want to strengthen their role. The session will also guide thinking Workshop Benefits contribution or understand how to help to improve your Board performance Help improve your current improve their Board’s oversight and enabling it to function more effectively. performance as a chair or help you governance performance. prepare for your first appointment as Those who are thinking about joining Workshop Tutor a chair. A full set of workshop notes a Board will also find it useful in The day will be led by David C Watt, an and certificate of attendance. exploring what they need to know as well experienced Board member in the Third Opportunity to network with a group as what they can bring to the board. Sector having served on a variety of of directors. A chance to re-charge boards over the last 20 years and a your batteries and reflect on your Workshop content former National Director of IoD own style of chairing the board. n Overview of the particular legal and Scotland. Opportunities for authentic feedback and challenge from workshop tutors and fellow workshop delegates. This workshop seeks to explore: • Setting agendas The Fundamental Role of the • Keeping to time • Controlling the meeting Non-Executive Director • Stimulating the debate • Understanding the culture of the Date: April 21 share experiences and future aspirations. board Time: 09:00 - 17:00 • Understanding what lies behind Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh Workshop Content what people say CPD: 8 hours • What an NXD can bring to a board • Winning board behaviours Prices: Members £345 + VAT and what input they can give • Working with the CEO Non Members £395 + VAT • An outline of the legal and ethical • The role of the chair between This one-day workshop identifies the duties and responsibilities of a NXD board meetings various roles of the non-executive • Qualities and experiences needed • The external role of the chair director (NXD) in Scotland within a to fulfil a NXD appointment • Evaluating the performance of the range of settings – family company, • Practical guidance on how best to board subsidiaries, Third Sector and Public secure an appointment as a NXD • Ensuring adequate information sector; how their appointment can • Provision of an overview of the UK for the board help balance a board and how they Corporate Governance Code and other • Devising the composition of the make an effective contribution to a relevant codes of governance. board board’s work. • Detailed guidance on finding, • Renewing and improving the It also examines methods for NXD selecting, appointing and rewarding board selection and reviews their motivation, NXDs induction and reward. It will help Speakers improve your current performance or Workshop leader The workshop is facilitated by help prepare you for the time when The workshop will be facilitated by David C Watt with guest speaker you may be appointed. David C Watt (see above for short Raymond O’Hare. There will be ample opportunity to biography).

WWW.IOD.COM 35 Events Diary

Forum focuses on Highlands and Islands

Event: Highland Investment & Kingsmill Hotel n Nick Lyth – Co-Founder & CEO, Green Innovation Forum Angel Syndicate; 2019 Investor Syndicate Venue: Kingsmill Hotel, Inverness of the Year (UK Business Angels Assn) Date: April 27 n Carolyn Currie – CEO, Women’s Time: 10am – 7pm Enterprise Scotland; Director, Mint Pricve: Members and Partners £90 Ventures (early bird offer) + VAT n Yvonne Greeves – Head of Women in Non-Members £105 + VAT Business, RBS, Natwest & Ulster Bank n David Ritchie – Head of Scottish This unique high impact one-day forum Investments, Scottish National focuses on the Scotland Highlands, Investment Bank Islands and North-East Scotland as an plenary looking at technology, green n Paola Cuneo – Director & Head of important investment destination for UK ventures including clean tech, renewable Advisors and Investors, ELITE - London and international investors. energy, tourism, hospitality, food and Stock Exchange Group The Forum will explore the area as a high beverage, health, wellness and life n Iain Scott – Director, Highland growth innovation hub for the UK (and sciences. There will also be a feature on Venture Capital Northern Europe), as well as spotlight key ‘game changing’ ventures, finishing with n Fiona MacDonald – Broadcaster, sectors of innovation, entrepreneurship an investors and funding segment. BBC Scotland & BBC World Service; and impact, including existing women-led Speakers confirmed include: Ambassador, PPUK businesses and ventures. n Angus MacDonald (pictured) n Ben Fletcher – Founder, Velocity^2 The event is aimed at investors – Founder, Moidart Trust, Chairman and Fast Growth ICONS (financial and strategic) and potential (Former) of SWR Recycling, ICS Learn, n Fraser Lusty – Gatekeeper & venture partners, C-Level Renewable Parts; Vice President, Investment Director, Equity Gap industry executives, business National Trust of Scotland; n Andrew Castell – Partner, Par Equity; leaders and owners as well as Founder, Caledonian Challenge; 2018 Growth Investor Awards (Best EIS/ established entrepreneurs/ Spears Entrepreneur of the Year SEIS Investment Exit) SMEs. & Entrepreneurial Scotland’s n Garry Munro – Director, Business The forum programme ‘Scale Up Entrepreneur’ 2017 Banking (Highlands) – Royal Bank of will include a leadership n Lisa Lambie – CEO, Positive Scotland workshop for executives and Planet UK, Exec. Committee, IoD n Amr Sheeran – Angel Investor, entrepreneurs, sector innovation Highlands & Islands Womena Plenty of questions – and some answers

Event: Mastering the art of the day, you will work in small n Learned the Seven Deadly Sins of strategic questioning groups on exercises and a Questions Date: May 21 case study that capture n Discovered the secret to creating Time: 9am-5pm compelling scenarios faced compelling question sequences Venue: Apex City Quay by directors and trustees. n Added a powerful set of skills to your Hotel and Spa, Questioning skills are leadership competencies Dundee the sine qua non of and November 19 successful business leaders. Workshop Tutor Time: 9am-5pm In this highly interactive (pictured) Venue: IoD Scotland, Dr David Steinberg is a one-day workshop you will Edinburgh consultant and university lecturer learn a breakthrough questioning CPD: 8 hours specialising in advanced questioning method that is steeped in investigative Prices: Members £345 + VAT skills for business professionals. journalism, cognitive neuroscience and Non Members £395 + VAT He is a guest lecturer at Cass Business social psychology. School, Strathclyde Business School, Jonas Salk, the scientist whose team The method emphasises humility, Edinburgh University School of Social discovered one of the first successful finely tuned listening, empathy, and and Political Science, and Edinburgh polio vaccines, once said: “What people Eastern and Western perspectives on University Institute for Academic think of as the moment of discovery is mindfulness – an ideal model for effective Development. He holds the title of really the discovery of the question.” leadership and governance. Associate Professor in Leadership We ask questions constantly to learn This workshop will offer you a new way Strategy & Organisation at Heriot-Watt about the people and the world around to think about and ask questions. University. He is also the Heriot-Watt us. Yet where do we learn our questioning Throughout the day, you will work in University Edinburgh Business School skills? small groups on exercises and a case Director of Graduate Apprenticeship This highly engaging session will focus study that capture compelling scenarios Programmes. Prior to starting his on deconstructing and reconstructing the faced by directors and trustees. consultancy he directed sales operations way you think about asking questions By the end of this one-day workshop, and account management processes in with the ultimate aims of building trust in you will have: the US for a highly successful e-learning people and of gaining deeper insights n Understood the optimum software-as-a-service start-up and for a from them in the process. Throughout questioning mindset Fortune 500 Corporation. 36 WWW.IOD.COM Forum focuses on Highlands and Islands Service life revealed Event: Armed Forces: Step Behind the Wire Date: May 27 Time: 9.30am - 1.30pm Venue: Leuchars Station, Leuchars Price: Free of charge

This event will offer a unique insight into the lives of Army and RAF Reservists. It is an amazing opportunity to see first- hand the skills and training which military reservists can bring to your workforce, and for you to join in with some fun activities. Reservists from Scottish & North Irish Yeomanry and 71 Engineers will be on hand with specialist equipment, and you employee is disadvantaged in their can visit 612 Squadron’s Field Hospital civilian workplace. You can find out To book on any event, unless to see how personnel deal with more about the Covenant here or otherwise stated, casualties in combat zones. Lunch will contact HRFCA staff for more info. contact Ms Patricia Huth be served from an army field kitchen, or Please let us know if you wish to sign on 0131 557 5488 you can sample the contents of a ration the Armed Forces Covenant at the event, pack to keep your energy levels up. there will be photos and PR made or email: Employers will have plenty of available for you to use afterwards. [email protected] opportunity to chat with serving Names and car details will be needed More details on IoD events at personnel and to find out more about and delegates will be required to bring the Armed Forces Covenant; a pledge of photo ID with them. www.iod.com support from business to ensure that no Building a positive media profile

Event: Building Your Media Profile Date: June 9 Time: 2pm-4.30 Venue: IoD Scotland, Edinburgh CPD: 2.5 hours Prices: Members £175 + VAT Non Members £250 + VAT You would love your organisation to have the visibility and reputation it deserves, with hundreds of thousands of pounds of free publicity in the media. A long-term positive presence in the media builds a protective shield, mitigating negative news’ impact. But why do your positive news stories not seem to make the impact you hoped? This one-day workshop led by a former BBC TV journalist and experienced communications consultant, debunks myths and offers a step-by-step guide to success. Delegates will also be objectives such as income generation an on-screen BBC TV journalist. She has introduced to the fundamentals of and enhanced relations with stakeholders. also worked in digital media, regional effective performance in TV and radio newspapers and professional magazines. interviews. Workshop Tutor A regular judge in the Scottish Press It’s ideal for individuals who would The workshop will be run by Awards, her expertise includes crisis like greater insight into the critical role Seonag MacKinnon, an experienced communications as well as internal communications can play in achieving a communications director who worked communications to foster staff media profile which facilitates wider for over 25 years in newspapers and as engagement.

WWW.IOD.COM 37 Technical briefing: Finance

Commercial financiers can keep SME owners’ dreams alive Paul Michel

Since moving into financial services, my greatest discovery has been how absolutely dedicated small business owners are. It is not just the financial and time commitments they make, but a whole range of dreams, values, relationships and sense of self that is “on the line”. Coming from a career in education, I know the personal growth bred by success, and the cost born of failure. In surveying a range of clients, colleagues and business owners, I find that ideas around Commercial Finance vary widely. Some are familiar and comfortable with it, others slightly suspicious. Some know the range of funding options, others only one or two. Not all know whom to contact, nor what the costs or security required. In all cases, concern over cash flow takes top priority. Without cash, a finance is to align your company to a enabling cash flow at times when it’s business is hamstrung. Matt Bull, a product. “The product is there to needed and to a level comfortable for business coach with years of company support you and what you do best,” the company. It can often be mated with turnaround experience, told me: Matt says, “not the other way round.” business loans or supply chain finance “Companies are often ‘stuck’, either Just as golfers need the right club for – keeping the structure neat, and with a from distress or in their growth.” their swing, so businesses need the right discernible end-point. Companies need the right people in finance. They must use commercial Returning to an earlier point, their corner. Granted a clear vision and finance in the right way. An overdraft businesses need to know their numbers set of values, meaningful key facility, for instance, can be a blessing or well and be aware of the security performance indicators and a solid a curse. Explains Matt, “It is mindset required and costs associated with business plan, companies need to know dependent – some use it judiciously, commercial finance. Eligibility is judged their numbers well, and know where others see it as a ‘new zero’.” differently among lenders, and rates or and when to seek help. Relationships Speaking with a trusted broker or fees must always be determined at the with bankers, brokers, accountants and bank manager enables business owners time of application. Some lenders are coaches are key. Emphatically, Matt tells to find the right product for their more flexible than others around me they must be trusted, as they are company, and for their patterns of allowable risk profiles, and it is often the fundamental to helping face challenges behaviour. Another popular facility, case that companies can find funding if and giving support. Invoice Finance, can be tailored to meet they are willing to seek it from some of Commercial Finance is a primary tool the particular requirements of the less traditional lenders. Consulting for fuelling growth. Traditional business companies. with a good commercial finance broker loans and bank overdrafts will always be A ‘whole of ledger’ factoring approach is a useful first step in understanding the part of the picture, but a greater variety offered by banks and larger financiers breadth of products and lenders in the of products is available today: asset can be very useful for high-turnover market. finance, development and bridging businesses with predictable flows of I began this editorial paying respect to loans, commercial mortgages, selective cash. Entering invoices through a portal the level of commitment shown by or whole of ledger invoice finance, lines keeps a consistent and easily checked business owners, evident in so many of credit, procurement and supply chain account of debtors and creditors, and aspects of their lives. It is the role of finance. The pool of lenders has grown allows businesses to draw down on commercial financiers and brokers to to include institutions, crowd-funding, funds they’ve already earned. give appropriate opportunity for this angel investors, and private funds. Alternatively, selective or spot invoice commitment to bear even greater fruit. I A great pitfall with commercial finance can be used more sparingly, hope this article has given you a deeper insight into the field, and has helped you begin to question how commercial “Companies are often ‘stuck’, either from distress finance might benefit your own or in their growth... they need the right people in their business. corner... relationships with bankers, brokers, accountants Paul Michel can be contacted and coaches are key ...” via [email protected]

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