BRITISH ROMANIAN CHAMBER OF COMMERCE ISSUE 6, FEBRUARY 2012 Britain and Romania are key partners His Excellency Dr Ion Jinga, Ambassador of Romania to the Court of St James’s, talks to Cristina Irimie about the two nations’ relationship, bilateral trade and life in Britain oes Romania see Britain as a key partner in the EU? If so, how does this benefit Romania? DRomania and the UK are key partners in both the EU and NATO. Our strategic partnership, which was agreed in 2003, recently received a boost when the President of Romania, His Excellency Traian Basescu, paid an official visit to London as a guest of Her Majesty’s Government. We share a common vision on Europe; both countries are proud to promote economic growth and compete in a single market in areas such as energy. We both support the enlargement of the EU with countries from the Western Balkans, Turkey and the Republic of Moldova, for instance, and want to reduce the overall burden of EU regulation, which will certainly be benefit companies from both countries. HE Dr Ion Jinga: a strategic partnership We are grateful to the UK Government for its decisive action in Brussels in simplifying EU is in trouble due to the eurozone crisis, having a regulations on accessing EU funds. As Romania has positive trade balance with a country like the UK is an important sum of EU money allocated, we need an incentive for continuing in this way. I will come to improve our absorption capacity. This will receive back to our bilateral trade later, because it rightly a boost from the simplified EU spending procedures, accounts for a considerable amount of the Embassy’s and will be key in getting the Romanian economy time and effort here, and is also seen as a concrete back on track and consolidating economic growth. way of putting our strategic partnership into practice. You asked me how this partnership is beneficial for Romania – I am proud to say that “There are more than 4,400 Britain is sixth on Romania’s list of European trading partners, and 11th in the world. It is number British companies operating one among EU partners in terms of trade surplus. Even in a time of crisis, our exports to the UK are in Romania and their number worth about €385 million more than imports. It’s continues to increase” not much, but it is positive. At a time when Europe (continued on next page) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 1 Interview with Dr Ion Jinga, Ambassador of Romania (continued) It has been said that the most important issues I do not remember any mention of corruption for British investors are the lack of local in any of the visits and meetings we had in the past authorities’ long-term strategies, underdeveloped year. I would not say that corruption does not exist infrastructure, bureaucracy, sudden changes in in Romania; unfortunately it exists everywhere in the legislation and corruption. How do you view these world, I am sorry to say. What is important is to limit comments? corruption so that society can function normally, Looking at the business environment overall, there and, when it is discovered, the law must be applied. are more than 4,400 British companies operating in The new Civil Code is an incentive for Romania and it seems they are doing good business foreign investors to come to Romania, as the because their number is continually increasing. At Minister of Justice, Catalin Predoiu, underlined in the end of 2010 there was around €650 million of his September meeting with the business community British capital allocated to Romania and around in London. Recently, the British Business Secretary, 4,100 British companies. Vince Cable, paid After the first seven a fruitful visit to months of 2011, we “I am grateful to the BRCC for Romania to promote counted over 4,400 – an being so involved, committed British business and increase of almost 300 take advantage of companies, and a rise in and determined to promote opportunities there. value of 28%. business relations” I doubt that so many If we think British companies and in terms of the total trade between the UK and such high level British officials would pay attention Romania, even in a time of crisis, we had more than to Romania if there were not a lot of positive aspects €2.4 billion worth of bilateral exchanges in 2010, to the country. Romania is not perfect, but I think 30% more than in 2009. Figures for the first seven that looking at the business opportunities it has to months of 2011 indicate that total trade was €1.6 offer, the glass is certainly more full than empty… billion, which means it will be €2.5 billion by the I recently read about the Wales International end of the year if the trend continues. Business Council in relation to Romania and I noted I have had, and continue to have, frequent a statement made in an interview by its chairman, meetings with members of the British business Byron Davies. He said: “Bucharest is home to one community in London and throughout the UK of the world’s finest hotels... We are unaware of the whenever I visit different parts of Britain – and I country’s dash to encourage growth and international have visited the most important locations in the trade.” Mr Davies also said that Romania has a three and a half years that I have been Ambassador progressive government committed to implementing here. I have attended working lunches and dinners rapid economic reforms, that there are British organised by the BRCC, and I take this opportunity lawyers in Bucharest who can register a company to express my gratitude to the BRCC for being so in only two weeks, and that one can rent offices in involved, committed and determined to promote Bucharest at good prices, and that with advice from business relations with Romania. I have great respect a good accountant, a company can find out about for Anne-Marie Martin, CEO of the BRCC. legislation. INSIDE THIS ISSUE Page Interview with HE Dr Ion Jinga, Ambassador of Romania 1 - 4 Chairman’s news 5 Conference reports 6 For more Event photos 8 information, BRCC membership information 10 please contact: Interview with the Rt Hon Lord Lamont of Lerwick 12 Community based tourism initiative 14 Agata Stefan, Members’ views Romania Tel: + 40 (0) 752 003 066 Interview with Florian Moldoveanu, founder of Pilon 15 Romania energy policy by Candole Partners 18 Nicole Ion, UK Business opportunities in Romania 21 Tel: +44 (0)7868 649990 New members 22 Members’ news and announcements 24 Charity news 41 www.brcconline.eu Events calendar 45

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 2 Interview with Dr Ion Jinga, Ambassador of Romania (continued) In response to the second part of the question, what the UK offers Romanian companies is mainly the global financial centre of London. This provides an incentive for Romanians to put their money here. There is also British expertise in doing business and a pragmatic way of thinking. There are some important Romanian investments in Britain. An example of which I am proud is Pilon, a building company started by a Romanian a few years ago. It now has a turnover of £17 million, with good prospects of reaching £100 million in a few Photo: Florin Galan years. Carpathia: Europe’s last wilderness, a destination for tourists Last, but not least, the and subject of a documentary featuring HRH Prince Charles that UK was the biggest recruiter of premiered at the Romanian Embassy in London Romanian labour last year. This is despite Romanians having to What are Romania’s greatest Highness Prince Charles, who is fight restrictions in the British attractions for British investors, interviewed in the film, are also labour market. Forgive the lack and what does Britain offer supporters. of modesty, but it seems we are Romanians? The Romanian probably the best foreigners in Romania is an important market. Carpathians are more than a Britain. It is not me who said It is the second largest market in legend; they are home to half of this, I am just quoting a report Central and Eastern Europe, so Europe’s bear population, 45% of recently released by the British we are more than able to absorb the wild species in Europe, and Government, commissioned in British goods and services. the only remaining virgin forests 2009 by the previous government: We have a very well in Europe. And the Carpathians “Romanians have the highest qualified labour force, we have are part of Romania, the country’s proportion of migrants with fiscal incentives like the flat backbone. higher education (40%), the corporate tax system and we There are also lowest percentage of people with have an excellent geographical opportunities in the energy mix. low education levels (26%), location – we are a gateway to the Romania still has important the highest rate of employment Caucasus region, the Middle East reserves in oil, gas and coal. We (85%) and the lowest rate of and the Western Balkans – and produce nuclear energy and have unemployment (4.4%).” So we also have huge agricultural good experience in the field, it seems that we are the best potential with more than 4 million as well as the second largest migrants in the UK. arable hectares. Only France has potential for wind farms in Europe more in the EU. Our agricultural (the first being Scotland). What are the strategies potential can feed 80 million We have a resilient for attracting more British people (we have only 20 million banking sector and important investment to Romania and also in Romania), so this is a fantastic human potential. I would like to bringing more Romanian goods opportunity. underline that 80% of Romanian and services to the UK? Tourism is another. Our students graduating from our We encourage contacts at the local embassy recently hosted the universities speak English and level. It is, of course, always very preview screening of the film 40% speak French. Our language important to have ministerial and ‘Wild Carpathia’, I was in fact is a Latin one, so it is quite easy other high level visits, such as patron of the event. It’s about for people with a Latin education that by the President of Romania. the tremendous opportunities to learn. These give political direction and Romania offers in tourism, being Our culture and traditions support, giving businesses the certainly one of the most beautiful are very close to those of Western assurance that bilateral relations countries in Europe. And it’s Europe – another advantage between the two countries are not just me saying this as the for foreign investors, as it does excellent at the highest level. Romanian Ambassador, a British not take years to understand the Ministers often meet in Brussels as well. film producer and His Royal culture and way of thinking. (continued on next page) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 3 Interview with Dr Ion Jinga, Ambassador of Romanian (continued)

We encourage contacts Could you name five things you the London Stock Exchange. between businesses and chambers would like to see changed in Thirdly I would like the of commerce by participating in Britain? British media to be friendlier, as it conferences, seminars and fairs As a diplomat, I have to be still stereotypes Romanians living and by being in the right place. very careful when suggesting in Britain. Our Embassy has a improvements to the host in their Fourthly, on a lighter note, commercial office run by the country! Still, I shall try and make I would be happy if traffic were Ministry of Economy, which some suggestions, with all due not so heavy on the highway from pursues every important business respect to those in charge. London to Brighton on sunny opportunity and tries to support First, I would like the Sundays. A few weeks ago it took business people from Romania remaining UK labour market two hours just to exit London and, who want to do business in restrictions for Romanians to be after giving up, another two hours Britain. We also support British lifted. For Romanians living here to come back! business people wanting a the main advantage would be And finally, it wouldn’t presence in the Romanian market. to no longer feel discriminated be a bad idea to make Harrods Our aim is to promote Romanian against compared to their Eastern cheaper! exports, but an important mission European friends from Poland, of the Embassy is also to attract Czech Republic, Slovakia to And the five things you love foreign investment in Romania – name a few. most about Britain? and again, events organised under It will also be Let me start be telling you that the BRCC umbrella are among the advantageous for the UK I needed one year to understand best tools for doing that. economy, or at least the Treasury, Britain, or at least to believe that I as hard-working, self-employed understood Britain. Then I needed The Romanian President’s visit Romanians in the UK (legally another year to admire Britain and to London was the highlight entitled to be in Britain as EU at the end of my third year here I of bilateral visits in 2011, citizens) will pay more tax as realized I love Britain. Why? making it an important year employees. for Romania’s relationship with Research suggests that 1. I love British ‘fair play’. the UK. Can we now expect an there is no danger of a wave of 2. I love British self-control. increase in British expertise in Romanians coming to the UK; We have a saying ‘to behave key sectors in Romania, such as on the contrary the trend has like a British Lord, or like infrastructure projects with EU diminished since 2009. The same a gentleman’. It means to funding? report states that Romanians have respect your word and always When the President came to come here to fill a gap in the be polite. London, he not only met the British labour market and many 3. I love British pragmatism in Prime Minister, David Cameron, of them are in highly skilled business and British generosity but also an important group of jobs. We have more than 1,700 in social life. representatives of British companies Romanian doctors and over 2,000 4. I love the combination of at Guildhall, and then he delivered nurses. I have to say publicly conservatism (in preserving a speech at the London School of that I am not happy that these a traditional style of life, at Economics in which the economy professionals have left Romania, least in the countryside) with was an important topic. but I am pleased to see that they tolerance and openness to the Maybe it is too early to are so appreciated here. world. draw conclusions from an economic Secondly, I would like to see 5. I love the British sense of perspective, but remember what more Romanian companies listed on humour. I said earlier, that 2011 has seen strong growth in the number of m British companies operating in Romania, and some of them moved to Romania after the visit, when it became clear that the British government was also encouraging British companies to do business in Romania. Recently, at the end www.bigphoto.co of September, we organised a successful seminar ‘Introducing

Economic Lessons Learnt by Picture: Romania - a Newcomer in the EU’. HE Dr Jinga would like to see more Romanian companies listed in London Issue 6, February 2012 Page 4 CHAIRMAN’S NEWS

he last few weeks have seen with a number of members in the a lot of activity within the past few weeks both in the UK BRCC, with the main focus and Romania. I have received Ton looking at ways to maintain a number of interesting ideas and improve the quality of service from these meetings and I will to you, our members. be discussing with the Board of In my New Year message I Directors as to how we can take outlined the major organizational some of these forward. changes within the BRCC and As all of you know, briefly mentioned some of the the Chamber is active in terms things that we are planning for of taking part in consultations this year. I believe that we have a with Government and using programme that will be of great the opportunity to represent interest to you. members’ views. The most recent In Romania, one key example concerns representations feature is an admittedly ambitious made to HMRC (the UK tax programme of Business Breakfast authorities) regarding an apparent Briefings. For the first time we anomaly in their procedures are planning to hold these on a regarding taxation of services monthly basis, taking a break provided by UK companies only in July and August when to Romanian customers. This I know that many of you are anomaly potentially will lead taking a well-earned break. to UK companies reconsidering The first of these briefings was Pictured at the Beatles-themed whether or not to do business with the Minister of Justice, Christmas party in Bucharest with Romania. I will keep you all Catalin Predoiu, as speaker. The services that we offer to members. updated. meeting was well attended and We are also looking I must, of course, thank the Minister not only spoke on a to develop opportunities of Anne-Marie Martin for the superb subject of interest (the new Civil networking with members of work that she is doing. She is Code) but also made himself other chambers. working very hard in her final available for questions. The February Business Breakfast months with us, and I very much The final arrangements Briefing is being organized jointly appreciate her support. All of are being put in place for the with the Netherlands-Romania our staff – Agata Stefan, Sandra next five meetings, which will Chamber of Commerce. I am also Gadea, Nicole Ion and Eliza Galos having discussions with a number understand the vision that I have of other chambers to look at ways for the BRCC and are working “This year we of organizing joint meetings. The hard so that we can achieve this. launch business aim is to widen the opportunity Finally, although I try of business networking for our to meet and speak to as many English classes – an members. members as possible, please feel We also believe in having free to contact me at any time. interesting addition top quality social events. The I can be reached by email on to our services” Christmas party in Bucharest [email protected] My phone was a success, with a very good number is +40 372 377 753. attendance. We also have a couple take us up to the end of June. The of social events planned over the Raymond A Breden speakers include Transparency next few weeks, and of course Executive Chairman International, ICAEW, the there will be the Summer Party in Bucharest British Ambassador, and the Vice June. January 2012 Governor of the National Bank In the UK we are of Romania. We are also hopeful working on our programme. At that we will have another Minister the moment we expect to host speak. a meeting for the Romanian This year we launch Minister of Transport in February, business English classes. The and we are working on a course is fully subscribed and programme of Evening Business I am looking forward to this Briefings with top-line speakers. interesting addition to the range of I have been able to meet Issue 6, February 2012 Page 5 CONFERENCE REPORTS BRCC seminar: ‘Romania - Europe’s renewable energy powerhouse?’ Report by Eliza Galos

utumn 2011 was an eventful time for the BRCC team in London. Following the business briefing with HE Cristian Predoiu, Athe Justice Minister, the highly successful BRCC energy seminar was held in October. This seminar gave more than 100 representatives from various sectors a chance to discuss and learn about renewable energy opportunities in Romania. It was held right in the heart of the City of London and featured excellent panel discussions and networking sessions. We received very positive feedback from participants, some of whom were industry leaders, confirming the More than 100 delegates attended and the feedback value of our events on key investment sectors. was very positive Following an introduction to the conference Commission for investments in renewable energy by Chairman Ciprian Bolos of Carpathia Power, followed. With extensive experience in clean energy HE Dr Ion Jinga, Ambassador of Romania, opened projects, Kay Korb, a Partner at Eversheds, gave a discussions with an invitation to invest in Romania. brief overview of renewable energy incentives in Analysis of the legal framework created Romania and a detailed account of green certificates by regulations recently approved by the European trading. Cosmin Stavaru of Bulboaca & Asociatii focused on various challenges ranging from grey areas and loopholes in legislation to the planning and development stage of energy projects. Other speakers gave case studies of energy generated by biomass and wind. David Williams, chief executive of renewable energy project specialist Eco2, a leading project developer in Europe, talked about biomass pipeline experience. He also gave a comprehensive account of the straw market, pointing to the operational and construction challenges. Joao Pedro Summavielle from leading wind developer, EDP Renewables, spoke about his company, pointing out that Romania accounts for 13% of overall profit. During the networking sessions, participants exchanged ideas and business cards, while the panel speakers made themselves available for one-to-one discussions. Financing mechanisms for renewable energy projects was the subject of the second panel discussion. Jim Fitzgerald from Ernst & Young compared access to finance across Europe, while Anne-Marie Martin, BRCC CEO (continued on next page) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 6 Romanian Students, Professors and Researchers in the UK Report by Eliza Galos

his conference the conference with was held in a welcome speech. October 2011 at This was followed Tthe Romanian Embassy by a wide range of in London, under the speakers, including patronage of the BRCC. Keith Vaz MP, who As in previous referred to Romanians years, the BRCC was in the UK as “first class present at this whole-day contributors to this event for the Romanian country.” academic community. Nick Anstee, Anne-Marie Martin, Alderman of the Ward CEO of the BRCC, of Aldersgate and was the moderator, former Lord Mayor of and BRCC sustaining The BRCC supported this well attended conference the City of London, member Smith & Felton for the Romanian academic community in the UK spoke about recent was the main sponsor. changes in the financial The 2011 conference focused on career services industry. management and professional development in Following these keynote speakers, the both the UK and Romania. Numerous business panels held debates on work experiences in a variety and academic opportunities were discussed, with of fields, from law and business to marketing and reference to the present economic challenges. the arts. The conference ended with contributions His Excellency Dr Ion Jinga, the Ambassador from student members of GRASP and LSRS trans- of Romania to the Court of St James’s, opened national organisations.

BRCC seminar ‘Romania - Europe’s renewable energy powerhouse?’ (continued) Daniel Kockisch of Unicredit discussed long-term Nevertheless, further developments are underway, finance for projects in Romania and the structural as implementation and secondary legislation are not elements in assessing the risk. fully defined yet. Louis Borgo from the European Bank of The BRCC would like to thank Ciprian Reconstruction and Development looked at what Bolos of Carpathia Power and Cristiam Comsa of made energy projects successful. Finally, George UniCredit for their invaluable input in organising Köteles from the Eunergy Capital Group explained this event. Thanks also to the event sponsors and the key risks to equity providers and underlined the supporting organisations: UniCredit, the two law expectations of a project vendor. firms, Eversheds and Bulboaca The panels agreed that & Asociatii, Carpathia Power, the renewable energy sector Duet and ECO2. offers significant investment Event materials are available opportunities in Romania. The for download from our website. country has already scheduled major private and public investments in this field, and there are successful ongoing projects. energy seminar materials

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 7 CHRISTMAS DRINKS, LONDON

BRCC EVENTS BUSINESS MIXER WITH INFORMATION THE CANADIAN BUSINESS ASSOCIATION UK - Nicole Ion Tel: +44 (0)7868 649990 Romania - Agata Stefan Tel: + 40 (0) 752 003 066

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 8 CHRISTMAS PARTY, BUCHAREST

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 9 BRCC INFORMATION How will YOU benefit? Over the past 13 years, the BRCC has become one of the top professional business organisations in Romania. We believe it’s because the Chamber is led by members for members

he BRCC is always guided investment as well as to the general by the needs of members. well-being of society as a whole. And by continually striving Our encouragement and Tto improve our services, we have support goes to organisations and received three important awards initiatives that best reflect the views in recent years, one of which and support the activities of the recognises the BRCC as one of the British community in Romania and best British Chambers in Europe. the Romanian community in the UK. We are now seen to be an effective voice for our members and the Valuable information and British-Romanian community as a concessions whole. As a member, you can access the We also strive to keep market research services of the strengthening our financial position Chamber’s commercial arm, as well in order to meet the needs of as members’ own services. our growing membership. To Key concessions are also enhance our services to members available, such as special fees from and potential members, and professional firms, reduced fares on to encourage the development member airlines or special rates on of regional micro and small rooms or conference facilities with enterprises, we are now establishing Image: tungphoto / FreeDigitalPhotos.net member hotels. a local presence. and events held by members and Marketing opportunities similar organisations. Networking works! Through our comprehensive range No matter how big or small your Representation of marketing tools, we can help business, what sector you’re in We provide an effective voice for members meet their business or what profession you belong business communities which trade objectives. BRCC marketing to, networking can be hugely between Britain and Romania. opportunities include publications, beneficial. Through the BRCC Through collaboration with like- online facilities, advertising, you can access potential clients minded business organisations, speaking and sponsorship. and professionals in Romania, the government and representatives, Help shape our future UK, Europe and further afield, as we are able to put members’ we belong to Council of British views forward to key government By taking part in our various Chambers of Commerce in Europe. officials. working groups and programmes Our members can also In addition, we give you can help shape the future of the access the City of London through members the opportunity to meet Chamber. BRCC CityLink. visiting dignitaries and officials. Personal touch Events for all Building better societies We treat every enquiry with a warm, We organise business, social and We encourage cooperation between friendly and personal approach. In educational gatherings and events various governmental, non- fact, we like to think of ourselves as both in Romania and the UK, some governmental and business owned a highly professional, consultative of which feature very high profile agencies. These include social, and caring extended family! speakers. These are well organised, cultural and charitable groups that relevant and well publicised. We can contribute to an improvement We look forward to also support activities, initiatives in British-Romanian trade and welcoming you! Issue 6, February 2012 Page 10 BRCC: How will YOU benefit? (continued)

About the BRCC BRCC The BRCC is a registered company limited by guarantee and owned by its membership. Its mission is to increase British-Romanian AWARDS business and investments, to foster a better understanding between the two nations and encourage bilateral trade and industry, tourism, WINNER COBCOE financial investment and cultural relations. AWARD FOR CORPORATE The Chamber has developed its brand reputation over many years of solid growth and is now considered to be one of the top SOCIAL RESPONSIBILITY 2011 professional business organisations of its kind in the marketplace, which is seen to be both an effective voice for its members and the WINNER COBCOE BRITISH British-Romanian community. Owned entirely by its members, the BRCC takes pride in CHAMBER OF THE YEAR 2009 being membership driven. All its resources go towards ensuring that members’ needs are met at all times. WINNER COBCOE MEMBERSHIP MEMBERSHIP CATEGORIES: DEVELOPMENT AWARD 2007 REGULAR members are enterprises of all sizes, from a wide range of industries – from large organisations to start-ups, small partnerships and sole traders. Especially for SUSTAINING members make a more substantial BRCC members: commitment to the Chamber’s development. These members are given priority in sponsoring events, being invited to speak, meeting visiting dignitaries Free help with and officials, and are given additional promotion HUMAN opportunities. RESOURCES issues FOUNDER members invest substantially in the running of the Chamber. In addition to the same Premier Global and the enhanced benefits that sustaining members receive, BRCC have an HR Clinic attendance at regional, national and international in News & Views. events is free. Original founder members and those For advice on paying a five-year fee are automatically represented employment law or on the Board of Directors. other HR issues, please send your queries to: newsandviews@ For more www.brcconline.eu brcconline.eu information, please contact: Agata Stefan Tel: +40 (0) 752 003 066 email: [email protected]

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 11 HONORARY PRESIDENT’S VIEWS Doing well in a turbulent world The Rt Hon Lord Lamont of Lerwick has been Honorary President of the BRCC for 10 years. Here, the former UK Chancellor of the Exchequer,* gives Cristina Irimie his views on the current crisis, Romania’s development and what he loves most about the country

aving known Romania for decades, how would you describe its current economic challenges on the European front, Hcompared with those of Britain? Considering it is a very, very turbulent world, I think Romania has done quite well. I think Britain has, in some ways, fared relatively worse. Romania is a poorer country but falling output here was bigger. We have a similar inflation rate; you have a lower budget deficit than us. Romania has some problems; it had to have an IMF loan a few years ago, but the National Lord Lamont, shown here wearing the Romanian Bank of Romania has steered a very steady and National Order of Faithful Service medal, awarded very responsible course. You had a very overheated to him in the rank of Commander by President property market a few years ago, but Romania has Traian Băsescu in 2010 coped pretty well. I entirely understand that in a country that is much poorer, the sacrifices demanded What will 2012 bring in Europe? Will it ‘muddle of the people are sometimes very difficult. through’? I hope we will see an end to the euro crisis. It is You have been called one of the bravest and most difficult to believe that European leaders could have put effective post-war chancellors. How should the forward so many solutions, every one of which has British Government tackle today’s economic looked good for the first 48 hours, before proving to be issues? without sufficient substance. I think the Government is doing well. It is a coalition government, so that makes it more difficult, but actually the coalition between two parties, which are “I admire the intellectualism not natural allies, has worked surprisingly well. of Romania. I think that Our deficit reduction programme extends over a period of years. Some people have said it is one of its greatest assets is too quick, but actually, if anything, it is too slow and its young people” I think that Mr Osborne, the current Chancellor, has really got it about right. We have been very badly affected by the eurozone crisis because it is a very I think the situation is so bad at the moment important market for us, but there is only a limited [early November 2011] that it is difficult to believe amount of influence that Britain has on a resolution things can go on like this. No one knows how the of the euro crisis. Greek situation will be resolved, but I hope that 2012 *UK Government minister responsible for financial and economic matters (continued on next page) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 12 What would you most like to see changed in Romania? I think the judiciary needs a bit of modernisation – perhaps a little training. I think that is quite important. I think corruption remains an issue. I do not like mentioning this as a foreigner, but I think most Romanians know that is the case. I appreciate that it is, to some extent, the function of being a relatively poor country, but that is the single most important thing that I would really like to see changed. And better infrastructure. Picture: Florian Foos Picture: And the five things you love The mountains of Romania are among Lord Lamont’s favourite things most? There are many things I like: will bring some much needed stability to Europe. At 1. the architecture; there are many styles – the the moment ‘muddling through’ is the option Europe domestic style in Bucharest, the sort of Austro- has chosen, but it is not free of risk and danger. Hungarian styles in places such as Timisoara or in the old part of Brasov Two observations from British investors in 2. the countryside of Romania with its wild flowers Romania are that poor infrastructure and a lack and mountains of Private-Public Partnerships (PPPs) are two 3. the painted monasteries factors preventing Romania from reaching its full 4. the cafe life of Romania, the intellectual cafe life, potential. What would you advise? I admire the intellectualism of Romania. I think The infrastructure point is right – you do need more that one of its greatest assets is its young people. investments in roads – although in the time I have I used to be a director of a bank which employed been in Romania I can see improvements, sometimes a lot of young people and it was interesting and I think, more clearly than people who live in inspiring to see their enthusiasm, their ability Romania, because I only come here periodically. The with computer skills and Romania’s youth is its infrastructure has improved but obviously there has great asset, they have very different attitudes been great scope for it. from the older generation, they have access to I think the Private Public Partnership, an idea which, technology that is the same that Britain or China in a sense, has been pioneered in Britain, could be has which enables Romania to skip some of the used more in Romania for people to build, operate problems that have been a problem, making it and run the toll roads. That would be a very good able to compete with other countries. investment for Romania and I think you would find 5. Romania’s opera and opera singers. British firms very willing to advise on PPP schemes. Norman Lamont was born in 1942 in the Shetland How do you foresee trade relations between Islands, one of the most northerly parts of the British Romania and the UK in 2012? Isles. He read Economics at Fitzwilliam College, I do not envisage a great deal of change [from 2011]. Cambridge, and before becoming a Conservative I would like to see more British interest. A lot of Member of Parliament in 1972, he worked for an the companies are quite small or medium-sized, investment bank in asset management. some of them involved in manufacturing or garment He was Chancellor of the Exchequer from 1990 to 1993 and served under two Prime Ministers, trade. I would like to see some of the big companies Margaret Thatcher and John Major for a total of 14 getting involved, like GlaxoSmithKline, which is years. He was made a life peer in 1998, using the in Romania. It would be nice to see more of them capital of the Shetland Islands in his title, Baron coming in. Lamont of Lerwick.

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 13 NEW TRAVEL INITIATIVE the chicken coops. Community Describing the experience as “more than unique’’Laura based tourism said: “It was educational ... I felt privileged to begin to understand the amount of work involved (CBT) for in the food that we often take for granted… not to mention rural Romania that everything was natural and completely organic.” n these times of accelerating Doru Popescu, the modernisation and change, local coordinator in one of the communities in Romanian villages, feels “this project values Ivillages have few incentives to traditional small scale agriculture preserve valuable rural traditions. Preparing a meal ‘from ground to that is slowly disappearing, A team of three Romanians and an table’ because economically or American have launched a quest Once in a village, financially speaking, it no longer to address this challenge. travellers typically go through makes sense. The income that With a diverse set of skills an array of purely traditional this type of tourism can generate and different backgrounds, they experiences: making wine or allows rural households to share a passion for Romanian cheese, shepherding and tending transform with the times, but hospitality, natural diversity and animals, riding horses, etc. without losing their traditions and colourful traditional culture. In addition to facilitating ancient production techniques. It It is from this passion, and building the concept of is only this way that we hope our combined with a real need for community based tourism in village will be able to keep and sustainable development in Romania, Village Life also perpetuate its past.” rural Romania and an increased works with local organisations Village Life has begun the demand for authentic, community- to promote small community new year with great hopes and based travel, that Village Life was projects. This creates volunteering aspirations of bringing a better born. opportunities relevant to the standard of living to families “We want to bring expertise required by the of villagers in an increasing urban travellers (both foreign community on specific projects. number of communities, and at and Romanian) to small rural Of course there are some the same time giving meaningful Romanian communities and give challenges to this. Community experiences to those who want to them the chance to reconnect based tourism has not been understand and experience the with the land and with a way practised in an organised way in Romanian countryside as it really is. of life long forgotten in most Romania before, so there is no of the industrialised world. We previous experience to learn from, also want to offer villagers an no specific legislation and some incentive to preserve traditions, have reacted with suspicious keep the individuality of their frowns. Nevertheless, the Village homes and continue practising Lifers are optimistic, having small scale agriculture the way carried out a pilot initiative last their parents and grandparents year, which has already delivered have done it in the past” says “heart warming” results. Alma, one of the Village Life Laura Mattes, an initiators. American, was one of the first Based in Bucharest, to take part in a Village Life the non-profit organisation has experience. Last December, developed a list of criteria for she and her travel companions communities and hosts to join prepared a meal ‘from ground their program. For example, to table’. They pulled carrots communities have to be naturally and celery out of the partially Helping preserve rural traditions and culturally rich, and hosts’ frozen ground, milked a cow and www.villagelife.ro income must be under the local collected fresh eggs straight from average. Issue 6, February 2012 Page 14 MEMBERS’ VIEWS nobody wants to end up in a dead- end position. So we try to provide Building excellence the proper environment for them to develop and achieve their maximum An interview with Florian potential. Moldoveanu, founder of The company targets and attracts talent amongst employees and Pilon Ltd, a successful as a result of years of expertise we UK construction have created the Pilon Academy. company and Secondly, one of the main differences is our true understanding new BRCC of the necessity to apply modern member technologies. Innovation is almost synonymous with that belief. We have developed a culture By Cristina Irimie where people think about this in relation to what is on the market. s a Romanian national Everyone who joins us is We have our own fully fledged IT running a very successful inducted into our way of working. department with both hardware and business in the UK, what At this stage we notice which software engineers, people who write Adrives your success and makes skills they need. Some of them are code for us and have developed our you different to your British self-employed or subcontractors. own enterprise resource planning competitors? Furthermore, we offer training (ERP) system, which has been a great Our vision is to provide excellence; programmes, most of which are help in becoming more efficient, to be proud of everything we do. free of charge, thereby building and especially in the last two to three We achieve this by understanding improving their skills, as well as years. This has enabled us to actually our clients, understanding talent and their understanding of English. grow the business profitably during a using technology to our advantage. recession. We sell to other businesses. “Our philosophy These two things – our ability We understand our clients by staying is about excellence, to recognise and nurture talent in a close. We study them and identify structured way, and our ability to those that we believe have the right talent recognition apply modern technology – sets us values and strategies. and talent apart from the competition. These We understand what makes talented management” things help us deliver excellent people tick, what they want and try service consistently across the board, to create opportunities for them to I think we offer a good deal; and in a way that allows us to scale achieve their goals whilst helping the we will invest in you to help you up the business safely. And when you company achieving its own. One of get better at what you do, to become achieve that, clients want more of our unique core capabilities is our more employable and in return, we it and are willing to pay a premium understanding of the immigrant work want your best effort on everything for excellence. And yes, even in a ethic. As an immigrant, I know that you do in our employ. Our business recession as we have proved to our most people that leave their friends concept means most of them are people and our competitors. That is and sometime family to go to another willing to come back when we have Pilon at a glance. country. They are driven individuals new projects starting. They are who want to succeed above all else. motivated to deliver the best. Many businesses downsized or We value and nurture that in We are enablers for people failed in the economic turmoil, yet our business and provide a place for to better themselves and help the Pilon has seen impressive growth Romanians who are good managers company grow, during the process. for the past three years. How did and good construction people to get We are enablers in helping people you manage to achieve that? acclimatized to the system and the become self-motivated, creating an The danger to a business during a level of professionalism required in environment where they feel they recession is trying to sell to whoever the British construction industry. want to do better, rather than us keep is willing to buy without a proper We encourage them to come pushing them to do better. understanding of what their values and work in an environment which In terms of how we are, and whether or not they bring resembles home, but operates at the differentiate from our competitors, any added value to their clients. The highest western standards of health there are two main points. First, moment you stop bringing added and safety, management procedures, our philosophy is that every person value, or for that matter, being training and development, which wishes to grow and to improve their perceived as not bringing any, your ultimately makes them all more abilities and skills, regardless of product becomes nothing more than employable. their age and background, and that (continued on next page) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 15 Interview with Florian Moldoveanu, founder of Pilon (continued) a commodity. It is a sure bet that you All in all, we have always will only end up winning if you’re contributed to charitable causes the cheapest. That erodes profits, because we believe in them. which in turn erodes the ability Nobody ever forced us to or to invest in people, systems, new recommended we do so, or even projects and so on – in other words, acknowledged us for doing it; we everything that a successful business do it simply because it is part of is about. our beliefs. We stood firm by our vision of delivering excellence. We did not Many British investors in compromise our core values when Romania consider the Romanian it came to delivering our products workforce to be one of the and services. We thought very hard country’s greatest assets. Is the about what clients and markets go Romanian workforce also an for in a way that ensured we were asset in the UK? selling to people and companies who Yes. It is clearly our core and most appreciated the value we bring to important asset. The vast majority them and are therefore willing to pay of our tradesmen and women are for it. Romanian nationals. No matter how tough times are, people want to buy How many workers do you excellence and they will pay more for employ? excellence. That is our philosophy Right now, close to 500, plus and we really worked hard prior approximately 80 in management, to and throughout the recession, to 50 of which are Romanian. deliver that. Our record of customer Florian Moldoveanu: no matter What makes them different? satisfaction is proof. We ask every how tough times are, people want It’s the immigrant mentality single client on every single project to buy excellence and they will that I, you and all these guys to score us against six key questions pay more for it have. We are a great nation but on a monthly basis. Over the past a lot of us are either different or three and a half years we have We help a number of become different the moment we continued to score 90% or above. We charities both here and in Romania. decide to travel 2,000 miles to do everything we need to, to make We are very selective because we a different country, sometimes sure that we deliver excellence. believe in making a measurable leaving friends and family behind, We do not focus on actual impact. Even when we were to better ourselves because we growth, or in that respect on profits. a small company we were want achieve more in life than the Of course we have budgets and supporting the Romanian Charity set of cards we were dealt with. we measure every project against Trust in London, of which I Ambition is the vital element that budget – every smart business does am a trustee. The charity helps we understand and nurture here at that – but our philosophy is not about Romanians in need here, and Pilon, and it’s great. It makes me turnover or profits. Our philosophy we have continued to donate proud to be Romanian. is about excellence and about talent to this particular charity for the recognition and talent management. past seven years, through two As a successful business leader, We believe by doing this our turnover recessions, month after month. how would you define successful will grow because, I repeat, clients We also take individual leadership these days in Britain? will want more of it and our profits cases that come to us through Successful leadership? Just be will grow as our clients will pay a bit the business and through our involved. Offer a vision and a more for it. employees. Our members direction to an organisation and be contribute a lot to these causes an enabler. Stay involved with it, What role does CSR play in your and the business always doubles continue to evolve that vision, refine business? up what is being raised. We also it as time goes by and the challenges We are kind people at heart, not contribute to Cancer Research, and opportunities change with the pure pragmatic capitalists. We truly Hospices of Hope and a few other business environment. believe in giving back. charities. (continued on next page)

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 16 Interview with Florian Moldoveanu, founder of Pilon (continued) Start by providing a Federation of Master Builders on government to collect money vision that is meant to empower training and development matters. from construction companies and people to deliver a sustainable If you enable a culture that distribute it across the industry to organisation. If you can do all brings the most talented and the support training initiatives. It was that, then in my view you are a smartest guys together, you have created at a time when construction modern leader and it is your duty a better chance of successfully companies didn’t believe much in to get on and do it. If you can do navigating through the obstacles training and development, and it all that, give me a call. I might ahead. That is what we do here. was right then. have a job for you! So we are fairly confident about But now it is a different our future. matter. We invest a lot of money What are the biggest challenges on training and development of facing Pilon in these uneasy Could you name five things you our people. The time the CITB times? would like changed in the UK? takes from our business by coming There are a lot of I mentioned and doing audits every year, which challenges. What “We deliver excellence that the country we also do ourselves, is amazing. is going to happen consistently across the is run by smart Fourthly, we would like to the eurozone? people. What to see credit coming back into What is going to board and in a way that they lack, the market because it is a basic happen to the euro allows us to scale up” though, is a need for businesses to grow. It and what is going strategy to get is true you can grow a business to happen to Europe as whole? us out of the current situation. organically in the beginning. How is it going to affect Britain They are very good at keeping But we are kind of reaching the and the British economy? And if us as safe as possible, but we end of that. We have grown by the euro stabilizes, then there is need a vision about the future selling more of the services we the US with its massive debt. And and that’s yet to come across. have developed, but we came to China with all its internal political The opposition is not challenging a stage where we have sufficient issues – division between the rich enough at the moment, so firstly mass and brand value on the and poor could break China apart I would like the Government market to enable us to put together overnight. And if China breaks to get their vision in place once some great partnerships and apart then how will it impact on and for all. They have tried with deals that would make us to grow the western world? the autumn substantially Overall, bar a disaster like state-ment but it “Ambition more, creating that, I think Britain sits in a very was just a half- is the vital element more jobs and good place geo-politically. It is in hearted effort. investment in a special situation between Europe Secondly that we nuture return. But we and the US and it is run by smart I would like here at Pilon” cannot do it people. to see the without access How you deal with it as opposition get smart. It is time to credit. We can continue to grow a business person and a leader is for them to mature, challenge the on our reserves, but there is a limit by staying on top of it, getting government and put their vision of what we can do. Credit was involved. I am involved with the across, which they don’t do. If always the enabler of business British Parliament and am part they manage to achieve these two growth and economic growth. We of my local Conservative MP’s things somehow, then we would lack credit in this country and I support group. As part of various be in a much better position as a don’t really see anything being groups, I get a chance to meet nation. done about it. members of the Government, Thirdly, I believe there Lastly, I would very much such as Vince Cable and other is too much red tape, too like it if certain politicians and politicians, and try to understand many government or pseudo- newspapers would stop blaming their thinking and offer them government departments issues on Romanians and Eastern feedback and suggestions. knocking on our doors and Europeans. We are a great nation We also belong to major making our lives miserable and a great asset to the British bodies within the construction at times. I shall give you an economy and employers. It is very industry. We advise the British example: the Construction upsetting to read negative stories Safety Council on health and Industry Training Board (CITB) in the press, often with no grounds safety matters and also the was set up in the 1970s by the or backup. (continued on page 19) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 17 electricity sector today, which is Romania energy policy: full market liberalization, which in turn would attract the required new investment. Both merely serve to much ado about nothing prop up state control over the energy sector (especially in the generation sector), ensuring that policy making remains opaque and harmful to the private sector. The Government’s reluctance to step back blocks liberalization of the electricity and gas markets. Certainly it might help state-owned companies in By Alexandra Paun, Analyst, Candole Partners the short term, which benefit from hidden subsidies, or customers who (as published in Platts Energy) continue to enjoy cheap energy. But for as long as the gas and electricity will be yet bad public policy present a gloomy markets remain under state control, another critical outlook for 2012 and beyond. no significant investment in the year for the The twin pillars of the energy infrastructure can be 2012Romanian electricity sector. In the Government’s energy strategy to expected. short term, it must cope with the be implemented this year are more The dry summer in 2011 sluggish recovery of electricity like crutches. Neither is helpful in exposed the capacity shortcomings demand after the 2009-2010 drop our opinion and should be regarded in consumption and the spiking of more as an evasion than an attempt As long as the gas and wholesale electricity prices above at a meaningful solution to the electricity markets remain EEX’s German prices caused by last problems confronting the gas and under state control, no year’s drought. electricity markets. It is also rather crucial for The first crutch is the significant investment in the long-term health of the sector as planned launch of initial public the energy infrastructure well. The resumption of investment offerings (IPOs) or secondary public can be expected in new generation capacity, such as listings of state-owned companies the nuclear expansion in Cernavoda on the Bucharest Stock Exchange of the generation sector, significantly (1,400 MW) and the 1,000-MW (BVB) this year. Hidroelectrica, denting Hidroelectrica’s output as pump storage project in Tarnita- Nuclearelectrica and the gas well as endangering operations at the Lapustesti, is overdue and must producer Romgaz are to be the nuclear power plant in Cernavoda occur this year if the country is to subject of IPOs, but the government The old and inefficient coal and gas- avoid serious capacity shortages is willing to float only small fired generation fleets were severely after 2015. packages of 10-15%. The other overstretched. And consumers ended The government estimates companies are Transelectrica and up paying for the system’s inefficiency, that between 4,000 MW and 5,000 Transgaz, which are already listed as wholesale prices soared compared MW of installed capacity (mostly on the Exchange. to historical averages. coal) needs to be replaced by 2020 The second crutch is to Listing companies on and about 13,000 MW by 2035. And introduce professional management the Exchange might improve the in addition to all this, Romania must into some state-owned energy liquidity of the exchange, but present a clear liberalization plan companies as a way to end chronic it will hardly make electricity for its electricity and gas markets inefficiencies and management generators better off. Investors as well as get ready for the post incompetence. Hidroelectrica will are unlikely to be interested by 2013 EU environment compliance be among the first to receive a new such opportunities since the share regime. Insufficient public funding management in the first quarter of packages are so small. Potential for essential investment, combined 2012. investors, who would be held with an absence of significant Neither measure addresses private investment caused partly by the most basic requirement of the (continued on next page) Issue 6, February 2012 Page 18 Romania energy policy: much ado about nothing (continued) captive by crony managements and today’s management if it wishes. It should liberalise the market and opaque regulation, will be scared off. Incompetent management is only do its level best to keep investors It is still unclear if the partly to blame for the inefficiency sweet. And it must restart projects government will allow generators of the sector. Political interference blocked by the Government’s own to keep the money raised from and cronyism are just as damaging. mistakes. IPOs to fund modernization of Furthermore, the selection These are very difficult assets, or whether these funds criteria and targets to be imposed decisions which need to be taken will be swallowed up to reduce on the new managements are still quickly. Parliamentary elections the budget deficit. And the timing undefined and where they are later this year will make it that for IPOs is bad. IPOs are unlikely defined, they are unclear. And much harder to embark upon to be successful, given the weak in any case, the impact of new the changes described. And so market conditions. Recall the failure management will be limited by the we should expect that 2012, like last year of the Government’s fact that profitable generators like 2011, will be yet another critical attempt to sell a residual package in Hidroelectrica prolonged most of year in which nothing critical gets Petrom, Romania’s most successful the long term contracts until 2018 at done. company. prices well below the average prices The professional on Opcom. www.candole.com management idea is good in Instead of the measures principle, but it is largely window outlined above, the Government dressing. The Government has the should resume privatisation of coal CANDOLE PARTNERS means to impose strict targets on and gas-fired assets immediately.

Interview with Florian Moldoveanu, founder of Pilon (continued) And the five things which you absolutely love and respectful. I’ve been asked on various occasions about Britain? whether, as a Romanian, I’ve had problems or I like the people. I remember when I first came cultural clashes. I haven’t and I don’t feel treated differently. What people are after, especially in here I went to central London as a tourist. I stopped business, is for you to deliver on your promise or somebody to ask for directions and the person was sales pitch. In my business, I am now surrounded clearly in a rush. But he stopped and took the time to by British people who integrate superbly with our explain and when he realized that I was a foreigner Romanian colleagues. I like their openness to other he slowed his speech so that I would understand. cultures and to foreigners. I had the same experience many times afterwards, Lastly, I like the countryside. I live in a quiet which says something about this country. village, which is always green, and the people are very friendly. I like the social mindset. Everybody has I also like the weather, as it is mild with no access to healthcare and a roof over their head, no extremes. If you want extremes you can always matter what. The ambulance service is fantastic. go on holiday. The weather here is great for a Fair enough, the NHS is still crippled at times, construction business as it helps continuity; you do but the concept, the philosophy behind it is what I not have to stop work in winter because of freezing respect and love. Of course there are always going temperatures, or cut days halfway through in the to be people who take advantage of the system, but summer because people can’t work in the heat. Not I still love the philosophy. The system needs to be many countries have this type of weather. improved and I think the coalition government is Furthermore, I like the schooling system and doing something about that. the fact that it is one of the safest countries to bring Generally, British people are professional up your children.

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 19 Refurbishment and Building Specialist

Our Approaches Client Focus a Professionalism a Investor in People a Training & Development a 

Environment Building a better future

At PiLON we're We're like no other company in the PiLON is a multi-trade subcontractor committed to Business. specialising in refurbishment and minimising the We're constantly challenging building for the social housing, environmental impact ourselves to improve, in key areas education and healthcare sectors. We of all our operations. like health and safety, training and work mostly within London, the South We comply with all d e v e l o p m e n t a n d t h e East and South West of England and relevant environment. Wales. environmental We strive to be ahead of clients' legislation, expectations at every level, from regulations and Since our inception in 2004, our operative to top management. approved codes of business has grown to £16 million Our Romanian heritage gives us practice, and strive to turnover. We've refurbished more than reduce our t h e c o n v i c t i o n t h a t e v e r y individual has a right to a decent 18,000 properties with more than contribution to 50,000 tenants in situ. pollution of land, air, home, education and healthcare – and water. and the chance to build a successful career. We are installing 1000's of Solar PV system across the country and are proud Health&Safety People are at the heart of everything we of our involvement at the forefront of the do. PiLON's senior management team green economy. encompasses the disciplines of Health and safety is estimating, business development, Our founder Florian Moldoveanu came front-of-mind at contract management, surveying, PiLON. We're proud financial control, HR and training and to the UK in 1999 looking for business to be a holder of The development. Together they bring a opportunities. His business acumen, Certificate of varied wealth of experience and are coupled with the strong Romanian work Commitment – committed to providing a high level of ethic within PiLON, has helped him Platinum Award, customer service. build a company which is known for from the PiLON takes great pride in our personal quality, reliability and commitment. Construction Skills development initiatives for its entire Certification Scheme, staff. It is our aim to give all our staff at and also of an whatever level in our business every International Safety opportunity to develop, grow and share Award with Merit in the success of our company. from the British Safety Council . PiLON has been shortlisted for the Specialists Awards 2011, in the Training category. www.pilon.co.uk

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 20 BUSINESS OPPORTUNITIES Invitation to join technology centre or full scale demonstration projects, Calarasi county

arkis Industrial Development Centre (IDC) technological operating partners of each project. has signed an agreement with Calarasi Three more regions in Romania have confirmed their County Council to establish a technology interest in joining this strategic project. Msupport centre (TSC) offering training, conferences, If you are interested Please contact research and exhibitions in these sectors: Konstantin Marotis (details below) for a • environment Confirmation of Interest document if you would like • energy to be involved as: • agriculture • aqua culture • a supplier of technology equipment, alone or with It is also establishing full scale, commercially others, in some of the demonstration projects, viable demonstration projects for each sector of the • a participant in other research/demo projects, or TSC. • a provider of engineering/knowhow/training Markis IDC is establishing a network services to the rest of the county via the TSC of of regional technology support centres (TSCs) Calarasi. in selected countries in cooperation with local authorities, universities and other entities. Markis is Konstantin Marotis, President, responsible for the project management, planning, email: [email protected] financial coordination and the selection of the www.markis.dk

The announcement below is for an area of the international airport in Craiova (Dolj County) of six fields with multiple uses. The site will be auctioned for a 49-year period. www. prefecturadj.ro Tel: 0251 4414424 email: [email protected].

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 21 NEW MEMBERS The BRCC extends a warm welcome to: BD Furniture SRL PiLON Ltd Class IT Outsourcing RD Business Consulting SRL Food Development Company Ltd Stephenson Harwood Investors in People Romania Stillae Mares Danilescu & Asociatii Saga Business & Community (Sustaining Member) Trendelligent Fort Market Merck Tudor Personal Tailor

Stillae – unlocking the power of data tillae is a London-based business analytics this year as a member of the ‘guru group’ within the and management consultancy. It was set up UK Government sponsored Engagement Taskforce, in response to companies needing and has recently taken on the Sto make everyday decisions using role of senior advisor available data. to the Taskforce. Our analytics lead to increased profitability and knowledge in Among our successes are: organisations. • using existing customer data Whether it is a an intuition to save money through a 17% needing to be checked against increase in client retention concrete data, or various business key • fraud limitation and better performance indicators (KPIs), we have partnership contracts most • factual and numeric anchors probably done it for our clients. Put for a new pricing simply, we manage to quantify the strategy essence of your business. • benchmarks and ranges for KPIs We often begin by We focus on three areas: addressing one small areaof your business, where 1. Specialist consultancy for decision support the issue or opportunity is clearest. Work starts 2. Business analytics for quantifications from a deep understanding of data within a clients’ • data mining and modelling specific context and the solutions are different each • metrics for KPIs and balanced scorecard time. Where data is imperfect, we can help plan • quantifications for estimates, actuals and return and prioritise data collection improvements for the on investment future. • targets One of our mantras is: stay with the facts, 3. HR metrics – demonstrating the value of HR be pragmatic – the business context and stakeholder interventions and processes perspectives are all-important … and ultimately, we The founders of the business have 20 years’ believe that being good counsel depends on building combined experience of unlocking the power of data trust. in real and complex business situations. Over the Describe us as nerds or geeks, most of us past decade, they have been helping companies make are pretty comfortable with the labels …but that’s sense of the data they collect, and put it to profitable not all there is to it; we know the importance of use in Europe. communication and engagement. We learned a long James Court-Smith, Stillae Director, time ago that the best analytical work can count for contributed to the original MacLeod Review of nothing, if you can’t make it speak to the client (or Employee Engagement in 2009 as a member of the get them to act). expert panel. He continues to support the movement Contact: +44(0) 203 427 3331

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 22 Trendelligent All the benefits of a dedicated in-house marketing team for the cost of one employee...

here’s no doubt that many companies need to PPC (pay per click), email marketing, PR and event downsize and re-prioritize costs. management. Outsourcing allows a company to put more You can outsource all or some of these Tfocus on sales and overall operations. It eliminates activities to our marketing company for a fixed the need to hire full-time staff (and the delays of monthly fee. doing so) while saving overworked staff from being tasked with yet another role. Who is an outsourced marketing solution An outsourced marketing team can help suitable for? companies market their products and services It is ideal if you: without extending their in-house marketing staff. • cannot survive without marketing support, but They can often provide the same service as an in- have a tight budget allocation house marketing department, but at half the cost. • need extra staff for short periods of time At Trendelligent, we can provide marketing • want highly qualified specialists for a low salary communications and advertising services that are in • require only part-time marketing support at many ways superior to those of our competitors. affordable rates Our competitive advantage is that we provide • accept personnel leasing as a proper solution for all the skills and services that you need to constitute growth a full marketing department without the cost of an in-house team, or any additional expenditure In-house marketing costs: on technical services – services such as strategy, • Employees – two full time employees (a graphic design, copywriting, website development, marketing manager and marketing executive) costing around €3,000 in monthly salaries, depending on their skills and experience. Benefits and bonuses are extra. • Technical services – averaging from a few hundred to many thousands per month for website management, print design, PR, promotion, creative, and so on. • Other costs – office space, computer equipment, software, phones, cars and salary taxes. • Total cost – a minimum of €40,000 per year, and the cost of outsourcing technical skills can easily bring the total bill to at least €76,000 per year, plus additional costs. • Key benefit – the availability of the internal team. Outsourced Marketing Costs: • Marketing team – from €800 to €4,000 a month, depending on needs (no employees required) • Technical services – included in the monthly fee • Other costs – there are no other costs • Total costs – average out at just €40,000 a year, including technical skills and without the added expense of office space, salary taxes, etc. • Key benefits – more people with better skills, more ideas, an outside perspective, and a dedicated, results oriented team.

www.trendelligent.ro

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 23 MEMBERS’ NEWS & ANNOUNCEMENTS Adina Tarry Balancing budgets that has now become intolerable. Many feel physically with people in mind unwell, calling in sick, turning n times of economic slowdown up late, being bad tempered and most organisations respond become either totally disinterested with anxiety and pragmatism, or aggressive in their reactions. Ifaced with a lack of cash for their Weakened by uncertainty and lack operating needs. One typical and of confidence in the future, many Increasing mentoring, quick reaction is cost cutting. start looking for greener pastures coaching and training are a This usually involves elsewhere, maybe even driven to direct and personal support a piece of paper in front of the review their whole professional that individuals can benefit accountants who look at figures status and contemplate a dramatic from, alongside organisation- and, pencil in hand, cross out item change. wide sustained internal lines, considered non essential, As for the impact on communications, clear and whilst adding up the figures at clients; well, business as usual transparent change processes, the end of them, until the target is quite frankly Utopia! How focused leadership, involvement number is reached. The ballpark can employees continue to look of staff in decision making and solution implementation, and rule is to focus on items that are after their clients properly when generally thinking outside the not visibly and directly linked to they are angry, anxious and knee jerk reaction. revenue generation. demotivated? Why would they All these combined are And so, alongside do so, when they feel that the good management practices that stationary, party costs and staff company has let them down so leaders in organisations need to treats (water, sweets, plants, etc) badly? embrace and practise, particularly training and development and in challenging times. related HR activities become - Increased support needed The people that still work incomprehensibly for many! – the And how good and willing a for you are your most precious first casualties of cost cutting. contributor can a person be when asset. Support and encourage them In spite of proof to the asked to continue business as even more, through coaching, contrary, gathered over the years, usual, in an organisation that has mentoring and training. Before cutting training and investing in people continues to snatched away the direct support development budgets, think be regarded as a luxury rather than offered by mentoring, coaching carefully and outside the box! And a necessity critical to being in and training, at a time when it is properly evaluate not only how business. needed most? much money you have saved on Many organisations paper today, but also how much Key contributors affected by a downturn will more you will pay in fallout costs, In reality, people are not only experience this very scenario. But tomorrow! key contributors to business trying to stay in the market and but also – unlike technology or go on, with such a debilitating www.adinatarry.com processes – complex and alive, state of mind amongst employees, sensitive to emotions, stress and cannot be easy. uncertainty, with direct outcomes Action has to be taken and in motivation, engagement and even plain common sense – let productivity. alone research – suggests that at times of uncertainty and stress Having survived the people need increased support. head count cull, people feel A company’s first priority demoralised, demotivated, should be to support its people anxious, suspicious, disengaged, and ensure that they perform at less productive, weakened by their best – and even better! – if frictions and squabbling, and not the same amount of work is to be necessary grateful for having a job done with fewer resources. Issue 6, February 2012 Page 24 The ultimate brunch ByManuelaexperience Meres, PR and Marketing Executive By Manuela Meres, PR and Marketing Executive hen you think about kids’ room, with animated kids’ Norma and a delightful mushroom brunch, what comes to entertainment. Just perfect. and gorgonzola risotto, all in small mind? Food. A lot of portions as though from a tasting Wfood. And a lot of people. Table service menu. All of these delicious When I think about After I had ordered my glass of dishes were also available at the brunch, I think about cosy Sunday Pinot Grigio, the first thing I had buffet, but this way of serving was afternoons, friends, food and in mind was to try the pasta, as innovative for a brunch – elegant, friends again – the group of this restaurant prides itself on the relaxed and inviting. friends you go to brunch with and authenticity and freshness of the The wine was flowing, the who stay friends after you leave. Italian ingredients. carvery with roasted bio chicken But now I have a new I went over to the (imported from an ecological idea of what brunch should attractive buffet, but I couldn’t farm in Italy!) was praised, look and feel like thanks to a complete my mission as I was the hospitable waiters were so recent experience when I had the charmed by the sushi assortment attentive and suddenly it was time opportunity to try the new brunch available on the cold buffet table. for dessert. at this leading five-star hotel in While I was sitting and This time, our friendly Bucharest. enjoying my choice, one of hosts offered us the delights of the waiters came to the table cooked-to-order pancakes filled Perfect ambiance with a pan filled with the most with sweet cherry and chocolate This particular Sunday was almost appealing and alluring shrimps, sauce, and served with a touch a winter’s day, with blistering baby calamari, fried salmon and of cream. There were many wind, dark clouds and cold, sea bass. He asked me if I would choices, including the forest fruit sporadic raindrops. I arrived at care for some of the deliciously pannacotta (a top seller) and, the hotel around 1pm – brunch tempting fresh seafood that he of course, Galta’s ‘artigianale’ usually starts at 12.30pm. I found was presenting. (homemade) gelato. an interior designed for comfort, I was very surprised by with an airy table set-up, big this offer; you do not normally get Redefining brunch leather corner sofas and the most served at the table by a charming, I must say this was an exceedingly inviting fire-place with a fire that elegant waiter wishing to fill your relaxed and entertaining Sunday created the perfect ambiance for a plate at a brunch. afternoon. You will love how the cold and windy autumn afternoon. Needless to say, the buffet line has been replaced by Relaxed guests were shrimps were fresh, juicy and friendly waiters with hot pans, chatting at their intimate tables, perfectly cooked. not to mention the cosiness and whilst animated waiters were Between glasses of wine warmth of the fireplace glow. This passing through, serving wines and relaxed conversation with my is a whole new brunch experience and food. Just about enough friends, the waiter came back with that takes place every Sunday only dynamics for a Sunday. more pans, also offering us some at the Athenee Palace Hilton’s Surprisingly, there were no Penne Arrabbiata, fresh Spaghetti Roberto’s Restaurant. children running around and this was not because no parents with kids had come but, as I found out www.hiltonbucharest.com later, because there was a private Issue 6, February 2012 Page 25 Training

vendorsfor even higher standards

he importance of human By Răzvan Costache, Vendor Training Day. Twenty resources when performing participants covered three main a quality translation, be it Managing Director topics: CAT Tools troubleshooting, Ta specialized text or conference quality assurance issues and project interpreting, is rarely taken into were18 years ago. Freelancers are management workflow, making the account by Language Service also aware of the many benefits CAT day an immense success. Providers (LSPs). Tools bring, from consistency to Participants had the chance Here at Avalon, we have respecting their clients’ instructions. to socialize during the event, and also always tried to improve the There was a time when more informally later that evening competencies of our freelancers Avalon was known as ‘a Trados in a pub environment. This also (vendors), in-house and project- training centre’ due to the number of contributed to the success of the based staff. Many years ago when graduates moving on after receiving event, so we will definitely repeat it the business started, we focused on highly valued CAT Tool training. in 2012. young university graduates, who Staying true to that name, we have Please visit our website benefited from our in-depth training continued to offer training to both in- gallery for a photo account of programmes. These improved their house staff and also to our vendors the event, or contact us via the language, translation and project over the years. website (link below) for high management skills in a corporate Online and face-to-face quality translation, interpreting and environment whilst giving them presentations to in-house staff and localization services, and cultural experience in the new translation- freelancers on familiar topics such communications. related technology. us CAT Tool troubleshooting and Back in 2003, there was quality assurance were a common www.avalon.ro probably only one other LSP besides occurrence until 2011. In that year, whilst Avalon using a Computer Aided Quality language services Translation (CAT) Tool in Romania. celebrating our 10th year in business, since 2001! Now almost all providers use at least Avalon organised a fully fledged one of the many tools easily available on the market, mainly because clients ask for such solutions and also because vendors (freelancers) are more technology oriented than they

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 26 British Airways in World Traveller Plus and Newly refurbished 777-200 and new special World Traveller feature the latest offers to the US, Mexico and Puerto Rico cushioning technology and in-seat power sockets. ustomers flying to New First, World Traveller and World The Thales in-flight York’s Newark airport Traveller Plus cabins, and the entertainment system offers over were the first to experience airline’s latest Thales in-flight 700 hours of movies, TV and CBritish Airways’ very latest entertainment system. music options on demand; that’s seats and cabins, following the The multi-million pound more than 230 TV programmes, first complete refit of one of the refurbishment gives the 18 Boeing 70 films and 400 CDs – providing airline’s Boeing 777-200s. 777-200s the same contemporary customers with 50% more choice The aircraft was the first interiors as British Airways six on movies, and doubling the range of 18 to be fitted with British brand new Boeing 777-300ERs. of TV and music options, as well Airways’ recently launched New seats and cabins as plug and play technology. Each cabin also gets bigger, high-resolution widescreens. Customers in World Traveller will be able to watch TV and films on 35% larger video touchscreens (now 8.9 inches); in World Traveller Plus they are 60% larger (now 10.6 inches); Club World widescreens increase by 16.3% (now 12.1 inches), while the new First screens increase by 275% (now 15.4 inches).

Special offers Furthermore, British Airways offers its guests the opportunity to travel to North America, Mexico and Puerto Rico for prices reduced by up to 25%. The new promotion is valid for tickets in World Traveller (economy) and Club World (business), purchased before February 7th for travel commencing before March 31st and between April 10th - June 15th. This promotion is valid for travel to be completed by 30 June 2012. The prices in World Traveller (economy) start from €656 to New York, €692 to Miami, €734 to San Francisco, €762 to Las Vegas. British Airways guests wishing to travel in style can do so in Club World (business) for tickets starting from €3,585 to Las Vegas, €2,945 to Miami, €2,102 to New York, etc. Terms and conditions: Offer valid for return fares from Bucharest, inclusive of all taxes, fees and surcharges. Selling period: 10 January - 07 February 2012 for travel commencing between 17 January - 15 June in World Traveller (economy class) and www.ba.com 24 January - 15 June 2012 in Club World (business class). Travel must be completed by 30 June 2012. A different level of service fee may apply depending on the book- ing channel. Availability is limited. Prices may fluctuate and be changed without prior notice. Other terms and conditions apply.

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 27 Bulboacă & Associates starts 2012 with team promotions: two partners and three senior associates he law firm of Bulboacă & Associates is de- promote colleagues who have been with us from the lighted to announce two new partners: Ioana beginning, who have made a significant contribution Radu Motofei and Costin Teodorovici. This to the firm’s business development, and who have Tbrings the number of partners at the firm to eight. also raised the quality of services provided to our At the same time, three lawyers were pro- clients. moted to senior associate: Raluca Ciocârlan, Voichita “These promotions also support our strategy Lefter, and Diana Mihaela Teodorescu. in key areas - corporate M&A, private equity, Adrian-Catalin Bulboaca, Managing competition, energy, banking, employment, and Partner of the firm, said: “We are very pleased to litigation.”

Ioana Radu Motofei, Costin Teodorovici, Partner (29 years old), Partner (30), is a focuses on litigation, specialist in banking, corporate M&A and corporate M&A and employment. She competition. He has been a member became a member of of the Bucharest Bar the Bucharest Bar since 2005, and has Association in 2005, been with Bulboaca & and joined the firm in Associates since 2007. 2008. He speaks fluent Ioana is fluent in English and French. English and French. Costin has Ioana has assisted in complex assisted clients in projects such complex projects, as financing the including Schroder acquisition of the Investment Management Limited in a dispute with company owning Doraly shopping centre, the the Property Fund. She also assisted the Portuguese acquisition by Wipro Technologies of a division of consortium Martifer (Prio Foods) in connection Alcatel Lucent (involving the transfer of over 400 with the sale of large areas of land/construction, employees), and representing Allianz Tiriac - and also with Kraft Foods Romania in closing the Allianz Insurance and Private Pensions in a plant in Brasov. Competition Council investigation.

The lawyers promoted to Senior Associate will focus The Bulboacă & Associates team includes a total of on the following areas: 30 lawyers. Raluca Ciocârlan - energy and corporate M&A Mihaela Voichita Lefter - corporate M&A, private The law firm was founded in early 2007 and soon equity and competition law became one of the strongest brands in the local legal Diana Teodorescu - litigation market.

www.bulboaca.com

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 28 CertAsig insurance (including weddings A leading specialist insurer on the and concerts), marine and aviation risks. One way in which CertAsig Romanian and Turkish insurance markets differentiates itself is by offering its brokers very quick responses to ertAsig’s evolving profile their offer requests. The profile of CertAsig Insurance Company has Plans for 2012 Cevolved dramatically since 2007 CertAsig has four offices in as the main insurance products Romania (Bucharest, Constanta, offered then were motor and travel. Timisoara and Cluj) and now plans Now, in 2012, the company works to open a representative office in almost exclusively with insurance Istanbul to support the growth of brokers and offers very specialist the Turkish marine business. The products, rarely offered by its aim is for CertAsig to be closer competitors. Risks insured last year to the Turkish marine market, by CertAsig were very diverse and in particular specialist marine included ships trading on the Black insurance brokers. CertAsig will Sea, cargo being transported along also offer general aviation on the Danube River, art exhibitions, the Turkish market to expand its helicopters, construction projects, successful Romanian aviation New Year parties and events, as insurance portfolio. well as more technical products Grindley says: “In such as bid and performance bonds. Romania we shall continue to innovate new products as more Underwriting expertise opportunities arise. The Romanian combined with Lloyd’s of James Grindley: CertAsig can react business environment is constantly London business model quickly to Romania’s constantly changing. As a small-to-medium CertAsig CEO and President of the changing business environment sized insurer, we are able to react Board, James Grindley, who started quickly and offer new products his career in the well-known like the Lloyd’s business model. immediately. This ability to Lloyd’s of London insurance Indeed our policies are reinsured innovate gives CertAsig an edge market 17 years ago, explains by Lloyd’s Syndicates as well as in the market. CertAsig is an that CertAsig does not wish to large reinsurers such as Munich entrepreneurial ‘underwriting shop’ aggressively sell motor business Re, Hannover Re and SCOR. Our with no bureaucracy. This is the in Romania. The Romanian claims management teams are also atmosphere I always encourage motor market, despite being very experienced and careful of and I know our brokers respond about 75% of the total market fraudulent claims, which during positively to this approach.” premium, is hugely competitive the crisis tend to increase.” The majority shareholder and a very tough market in which of CertAsig is private equity fund, to make money. CertAsig has a Romania and Turkey – two core Royalton Capital Investors II. The team of first-class underwriters markets limited liability partners and including Mihai Blajan (Deputy CertAsig’s business derives from investors of the fund include Alpha General Manager and Chief two core markets. Approximately Associates, European Bank for Marine Underwriter) and Mihaela 50% of gross premiums come Reconstruction and Development Cojocaru (Chief Underwriter and from the Romanian non-marine (EBRD) and European Investment Member of the Board). insurance market, whilst the other Fund (EIF). Grindley says: “My 50% derives from the Turkish underwriting team focuses their marine market. In 2011, the total www.certasig.ro expertise and talent on non- gross premiums of the company motor insurance classes which exceeded €7 million, with an statistically are more profitable increase of more than 50% on (premiums v claims). We rely 2010. The growth came from the on their skill and judgement to increase in sales for specialist underwrite the right risks, at the products. This specialist segment right price. is small but growing fast. Our business model is very Core products sold by different to other insurers in the CertAsig included: liability, bid markets where we work; it is more and performance bonds, event Issue 6, February 2012 Page 29 www.crowneplaza.com

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 30 Delamode Romania puts in place plans for growth

elamode Romania has appointed Cosmin Rusu as General Manager. Mr Rusu will have the responsibility of managing and developing Dthe company’s supply chain management and freight forwarding services. A graduate of the Academy of Economic Cosmin Rusu, General Manager, Delamode Romania Studies in Bucharest, Faculty of Economics and Cybernetics, Rusu has more than 13 years’ industry The location of the facility provides the experience and joins from the Metro Group in perfect hub for the local Balkan retail market and Romania, where he worked for 10 years. acts as a consolidation facility for UK and European “We are delighted to have Rusu on board as he retailers. brings considerable strategic management expertise What’s more, via its dedicated distribution in end-to-end supply chain solutions and retail related model and commitment to high volume trailer transport and warehousing operations” commented optimisation, Delamode can significantly improve Delamode’s Danor Ionescu, CEO of Central Eastern load efficiencies. This results in substantial cost Europe. savings and a reduction in carbon footprint as fewer Delamode would also like to clarify the vehicles are used for the transportation of garments. situation following the sale of its Contract Logistics division and joint venture with DHL (DHL Delamode) to Keswick Enterprises in 2011. These were the only divisions of the company that were sold and the core business - supply chain management, freight forwarding, consolidation, domestic distribution, customs clearance, warehousing and fashion logistics remains firmly with Delamode Romania, a business established in 1994 and employing over 120 people. Delamode Romania SRL - International “The sale of these businesses was a strategic Logistics & Freight Forwarding Services decision taken by the Delamode shareholders and presented an ideal opportunity for the company to invest in a number of exciting ventures within Delamode Romania is a leading, privately owned, international logistics and freight forwarding company, delivering complete Romania, as well as developing its core business end-to-end supply chain solutions for its customers. offering” added Mr Ionescu. Delamode currently has offices in Romania, > International full load, part load and groupage services Bulgaria, Moldova, Hungary, Lithuania and the > Domestic distribution throughout Romania UK. During the course of this year, the Group > Strategically located warehouse facilities: - Bucharest, Otopeni, Constanta, Oradea, Timisoara, plans to continue its expansion in the Balkan and Sibiu, Bacau and Urziceni Baltic regions – a strategy that will further enhance > Garment consolidation & distribution service for the local Delamode’s offering across Europe. The imminent Balkan market and UK & European retailers opening of an office in Belgrade, Serbia, is the first > Sea & air freight services planned country development and will see Delamode > Customs clearance services offering freight forwarding services for the Serbian market. Delamode Romania Also, in response to the resurgence of garment 111-115, Bd Timisoara, 6th District, 061327, Bucharest, Romania Tel: +40 21 407 74 00 production in Eastern European countries such Fax: +40 21 407 74 60 as Romania, Bulgaria, Belarus and Moldova, the [email protected] company has opened a new garment consolidation warehouse in Urziceni (Romania), about 40km from www.delamode.rwww.delamode.ro o Bucharest. Issue 6, February 2012 Page 31 Trends Integration and sharing for promoting Whether businesses have decided to create a LinkedIn or Google+ Business Page, Facebook Fan page or a Twitter account, it’s important they let their your business clients know about it. This means having a separate section on their business’ website with social media buttons that link to the company’s accounts. in 2012 Also, businesses will have to integrate social sharing buttons to allow users to like or recommend 011 was the year when companies were just an article on Facebook, share the link of an article coming into contact with social media, shyly on Twitter, and so on. A very good idea will be to attempting to create accounts and discovering use user ratings and comments as testimonials on the 2how to communicate with their target audience. company’s website. But 2012 will be the year of PR professionals empowering business leaders and experts to get Client service and talent acquisition involved more actively online through carefully Need to share important information to followers thought communication campaigns. or reassure them in case of a crisis with real time Social Media will no longer be a trial and updates? Then nothing parallels social media and error promotion environment, and businesses will a PR professional for speed and efficiency of high have to take into consideration aspects like tactical volume communications. More and more businesses execution and engagement, integration, search will chose to develop help centres on social media engine relevance and content quality. platforms – very good examples of companies that have already done this are Orange Help on Facebook Research and strategy and @vodafonebuzz on Twitter. This year, a well planned social media strategy will Moreover, companies shift towards using be of great importance for businesses that want social media as a talent acquisition tool. First of all, to strengthen their digital presence and cultivate a potential candidate’s social media profile will give customer relationships. Campaigns will need employers more insight on what type of person they to focus more on research, communication and are. Secondly, businesses will be able to grow their integration to provide a worthwhile ROI (return on employer brand by organizing competitions and investment). This means that PR professionals will preliminary selection processes directly on social have to identify the right data to be able to make media. informed decisions and integrate either across all Dolphin Business Management offers social media channels or only on the platforms that integrated solutions for promoting companies, best suit their clients’ business. from public relations strategies, event organizing, branding, online and social media PR and Relevance and quality advertising, SEO and PPC campaigns, graphic As businesses rush to meet the users of social media design and DTP, printing and production of channels, they must not forget that whatever they promotional materials. have to offer must be eye-catching and relevant. We are a team with experience in Businesses need to differentiate themselves from coordonating business-to-business and business-to- their competitors and have PR professionals who consumer communication, by developing promotion deliver qualitative messages to fans or followers – campaigns in areas such as retail, HORECA, messages tailored to the specifics of each social IT&C, FMCG, health & pharma, beauty, wellness media platform. Relevance will be very useful when and fitness, art & entertainment, gouvernment and it comes to appearing in search engine results. NGOs. Google and Bing have now enabled people to make search decisions based on friends’ recommendations. www.dolphinmanagement.ro Even more so, journalists will increasingly turn to social media to look for sources and research stories. This also means that the business spokespeople need to be accessible to the press via these channels. Issue 6, February 2012 Page 32 What will the Epicor predicts that ERP market cloud computing, an improved social and user look like in friendly experience, and 2012? application mobility will By Chad Meyer, Director, Product become the main drivers Marketing, Epicor Software behind ERP in 2012. his vision for the ERP market stems from common practice for businesses to set up profiles the internal and external changes that and get in touch with customers via such sites. companies are now experiencing. The global This flow of information is also reflected Teconomic situation, or the transformation of local in today’s ERP systems. Epicor offers a very markets, always drives market growth or decline. interesting activity stream tool, where users can However, more often than not in today’s business receive personalized notifications about various environments, IT investments are also significantly tasks and activities. These are similar to Facebook affected by social conditions that impact the general notifications, but instead of messages from our business mentality. friends, users can learn about This can be illustrated orders or payment status. Look by the growing popularity of out for various product releases cloud solutions. Until recently, in this area by many other a significant barrier hindering suppliers. adoption of this technology was Our vision is in line with entrepreneurs’ concerns about recent analyst research about the the ‘virtual quality’ of the cloud future of the ERP market, which model. Even though the benefits states that the key technological of lower costs and less hassle changes of 2012 will include with IT were compelling, the data virtualization, social idea of cloud computing still networks, cloud, integrated seemed risky. infrastructure and application With time, this has mobility. changed; currently we are seeing The growing importance more and more interest in cloud of mobile solutions, and the based applications. There are a increasing number of users, number of solutions that become Chad Meyer: seeing more and more including companies who require more and more common in our interest in cloud computing remote working capabilities, everyday lives, such as online does not equal a global banking, social sites and personal services sites. eradication of desktop software, however. Best Because of this, the cloud may very well become the business practice says that the ideal solution is to number one topic in 2012. split the focus between these two models, depending The transfer of certain practices from our on the business requirements, work style or industry. private life into business life is also evident in the What will the ERP market be like in 2012? case of social networks. Managing profiles on social Without a doubt, it will meet the needs of the sites is no longer just a personal matter. It’s now changing environment and customer expectations – key criteria for suppliers and manufacturers today and in the future.

www.epicor.com/romania

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 33 InterContinental Bucharest New General Manager for Happy Valentine’s Novotel Bucarest City Centre Dinner at the Stéphane Modigliani Restaurant Barbazan Escape the daily routine and enjoy a romantic dinner at the Modigliani Restaurant, InterContinental Hotel, Bucharest. Treat your valentine to the special four- course menu created by Executive Chef, Alfonso Salvaggio: Duck liver terrine, Scallops and giant tiger shrimp, Veal involtini and Chocolate soufflé with vanilla ice cream sauce

And find the perfect accompaniment with a bottle of wine recommended by our ovotel Bucarest City Centre is pleased to sommelier, Bogdan Cojocaru. announce that Stéphane Barbazan is the new General Manager, replacing Philippe H To make the evening truly memorable, we NDrivon. have live piano and guitar music. With wide experience in the field of Price: 340 RON/ couple. hospitality, Mr Barbazan's last assignment was managing the five-star Grand Mercure Oriental Ginza in Shenzhen, China. A French national, he has spent 22 years in the hospitality industry in various senior management positions, with extensive international experience in Europe, the Indian Ocean, North Africa, North America, and the Caribbean. Novotel Bucarest City Centre organised a cocktail reception on 17 January, attended by Why not stay the night? the Accor management team, numerous business A Deluxe Room is 400 RON with partners and journalists. breakfast and health club access included, plus an upgrade to a Junior Suite, www.novotel.com if available. For reservations, please contact the restaurant manager, Mr. Bogdan Cojocaru on: 0730 644 806 or by e-mail: [email protected]

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 34 New online tool for financial education APC Romania launches www.totuldespreDAE.ro portal

he Association for Consumer Protection and index modifications amd definitions of the most (APC Romania) has launched a new online important financial terms, as well as examples of tool for information and financial education. how to calculate APR under various conditions. It TThe new website - www.totuldespreDAE.ro also includes the only APR calculator in Romania (everythingaboutAPR.ro) - is part of the Bugetul to take into consideration additional characteristics Familiei (Family Budget) financial education such as the frequency of payments. programme that Provident supports. Bugetul Familiei is a national financial According to the most recent national education programme by APC Romania, under the survey, which was commissioned by Provident and patronage of the National Authority for Consumer conducted by an independent research company, Protection. Within this programme, the website the APR (annual percentage rate) is widely used www.bugetulfamiliei.ro has been created, which but misunderstood. The survey set out to measure is a portal providing financial information in plain the level of Romanians’ financial literacy and language and tools aimed found that 82% of respondents use the APR as the at optimising the most important factor when deciding to take out a administration of loan. However, 31% of them said they had no idea personal and what the APR is and another 52% had an incorrect family finances. understanding of what it stands for. Professor Moisa Altar, one of the most highly respected and well known economists in Romania, was a special guest at the press conference to launch the online tool. He explained how misleading the APR can be if not used properly, and said that the APR alone should never be a determining factor when choosing a loan. The university professor portrayed APR as a nice guy, but kind of introverted and unstable. The key to using the APR is to calculate it based on the same factors of amount, repayment period, payment frequency and type of interest, as the value of the APR varies significantly according to these variables. For example, assuming all other factors are the same, the shorter the repayment period, the higher the APR is. This does not necessarily mean that the total amount payable is higher, however. The important thing is to use APR to compare apples with apples, meaning loans with similar characteristics, Professor Altar said. The new totuldespreDAE.ro portal provides consumers with a range of informative movies, info-graphics about credit, news about standards www. bugetulfamiliei.ro

www.providentfinancial.ro

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 35 Rentrop & Straton E-maker, the publishing tool of the future

rint is not dead! Yet! But digital is Helfpful software definitely the ‘new print’. Publishers need E-maker has none of the issues described above to move fast to make their titles available and features very helpful functionality. This Pin digital formats to meet their customers’ needs, software creates digital products that cannot be and offer them a range of options so they won’t pirated because the content is encrypted and be left behind. Fokus Digital Services, part of can only be viewed and printed – not copied or Romanian-German business publishing house edited. Rentrop&Straton, created a tool that makes this The publisher can regularly update the transition much easier. content in just a few seconds as E-maker allows It took 10 of the best Romanian for direct communication with the customer and programmers and six months of work for Fokus more control over the database and the products. Digital Services to come up with E-maker. This innovative software transforms .pdf files into Please follow the link below to find out more editorial digital products in just a few minutes. about E-maker. Research shows that 6 out of 10 publishers have decided to offer digital products For Rentrop&Straton Publishing House, this to their customers. Famous publishing houses product has generated revenues of around €1.4 already advertise offers such as “Subscription million in just a few months, proving the value for the printed edition of our newsletter = $25. of E-maker in these times of deep economic Subscription for printed edition plus .pdf file = crisis. Could E-maker mark the beginning of a $29.” new era for publishers?

Problems with .pdf files But .pdf files do have some issues, the biggest problem being piracy. If someone downloads or receives a .pdf file they often act as if they own it and can do http://emakerforpublishers.com whatever they want with it. They can send it to dozens of friends, for example, who then send it to their friends and so on. Besides lowering the www.fokusdigitalservices.ro value of the document, this has a negative effect on the publisher’s turnover. Another problem with .pdf files is that they cannot be updated; you have to send another file for the updates. Imagine (if you haven’t already done so) that for a newsletter or a ‘Loose-Leaf’, you’ll have to send a new file to all your subscribers each time you update the information.

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 36

For businesses expanding across international borders, the task of global development can appear overwhelming as the challenges of retaining full control over the establishment and proper compliance of local entities are constantly growing. The ever-changing rules for company formation, accounting and HR & payroll reporting can confuse even the most experienced executives. And if the complications of international cultural, time zone and language barriers are added to this mix, the entire process may seem discouraging. TMF Group is here to support businesses globalize.

In order to enable clients to benefit from the increasing globalization of the world’s economy, TMF Group provides a comprehensive range of complex, high-end administrative services in more than 100 offices across the world. With a single point of contact our company can offer its clients control and visibility, while services are being provided by in-country professionals who know the local culture and regulations and who speak the language.

TMF Romania focuses on quality measures, controls and productivity, providing timely information needed for decision support and business planning. You can rely on our dedicated staff to take care of all your accounting and corporate secretarial matters transparently and flawlessly. Due to the fact that our employees are highly experienced and have the necessary background to understand the Romanian nuances of business compliance, you are assured of the best guidance.

TMF Romania services can be summarized as follows:

• Financial administrative services; • Legal administrative services; • HR administrative services and payroll services.

Why choose TMF Romania?

• We have more than 11 years of experience on the Romanian market; • Member of the Romanian Fiscal Consultants Chamber; • Member of The Body of Expert and Licensed Accountants of Romania; • We have a worldwide presence, however our services are customized locally; • We can provide you an independent and complete range of administrative services; • Complete delivery is ensured by our administrative services team; • We have proven track record. www.tmf-group.com

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 37 Tibbett Logistics –

Romania’s intermodal logistics pioneer

omania’s largest privately owned contract The scale of Tibbett Logistics’ new 12,000 sq metre logistics specialist, Tibbett Logistics – part intermodal terminal at Europolis Park is clear… the of the fast-growing UK-based Keswick rail-connected warehouse is on the left REnterprises group – had a busy fourth quarter of 2011 following the announcement in October that it was planning to open a second intermodal (road-rail) logistics terminal in Bucharest before the end of that year. The major new terminal was duly opened in December, concluding one of the most intensive development periods in the company’s history. Tibbett Logistics has operated an intermodal terminal in the east of Bucharest since 2008, and Martin Harris OBE, British Ambassador to Romania (left), and David Goldsborough, Tibbett Logistics activities there are continuing. The new terminal is CEO, speaking at the opening ceremony located in the west of the city, within the Europolis Park complex. over the next 12 months, with an expectation As well as block trains operated by Tibbett that 14 trains a week will be handled by the end Logistics between the Black Sea port of Constanta of the second quarter of this year. In addition to and Bucharest, the new intermodal terminal is open the terminal platform for handling intermodal to all end-users and operators, and will handle trains units, Tibbett Logistics operates a 4,500 sq metre with swap-bodies, containers, semi-trailers and warehouse within the terminal complex, with a tank containers running to/from the EU, Turkey and rail siding for directly unloading conventional rail western Romania. This year will also see the arrival wagons. of the first trains with car-transporter wagons. The company also runs a separate 22,000 sq The terminal is being developed in phases metre retail distribution centre in Europolis Park. In fact, it operates a total of five such facilities within a 10 km radius – employing over 550 people. At the end of November, Tibbett Logistics further underlined its commitment to intermodal/road-rail operations in Romania by acquiring its own intermodal rail wagons. It is one of only a few logistics companies that deploys its own rail rolling stock as a guarantee of capacity. Initially, the 32 new wagons are being used on Tibbett’s own block trains operating out of Constanta, but the company plans to acquire additional rolling stock later this year to secure sufficient capacity

Tibbett Logistics’ initial consignment of 32 intermod- al rail wagons arrive in Bucharest Issue 6, February 2012 Page 38 for daily services, and to create a link between Bucharest and the west of Romania. The delivery of the rail wagons followed the arrival of additional terminal equipment – the largest of which was a Kalmar DRF450 reach stacker. This impressive lifter can handle containers and intermodal units weighing up to 40 tonnes, and complements the company’s existing Hyster Top Loader reach stacker. Then, in December, the new EUR6.4 million intermodal terminal was officially opened by Martin Harris OBE, the UK’s The Kalmar reach stacker can handle containers and intermodal units Ambassador to Romania, in the weighing up to 40 tonnes presence of some 200 guests from multinational manufacturers, retailers, forwarders preferred to be supplied from Rotterdam, two and shippers, along with other dignitaries. As thousand kilometres away by truck. One year later, part of the opening ceremony the first fully loaded that is changing. The upgrade to the railway line, train entered the terminal to the accompaniment of and the new intermodal terminal in Bucharest, fireworks and rousing music. make Constanta an increasingly attractive option.” In his speech, Mr Harris emphasised the The first stage of Tibbett Logistics’ second environmental benefits of the new terminal – pointing intermodal terminal in Bucharest commenced out in particular that analysts predict savings of 16.6 operations with 12,000 sq metres of platform and million tonnes of CO2 a year as a result of fewer truck 2.5 km of rail track, plus the accompanying rail- movements in and around Bucharest because of the connected warehouse. This platform provides an terminal development alone. immediate capacity of approximately 1,200 TEU He commented: “When I arrived in Romania – a figure that is set to double by the fourth quarter in 2010 one of my first trips was to Constanta, of this year with the scheduled completion of the which is one of the largest ports in Europe. I found second development phase. it extraordinary that many companies in Romania Tibbett Logistics’ CEO, David Goldsborough, commented: “The success of any intermodal terminal development rests not only on its facilities, but also on its location. This is where we really score – as freight trains are now able to travel from the port of Constanta almost to the door of the major retailers and manufacturers in Bucharest. At this site, we are within a few kilometres of all the city’s main industrial and logistics parks – from which the major part of the logistics needs of the nation are served.”

The first train arrives at the new open-access intermodal terminal in www.tibbettlogistics.com the west of Bucharest Issue 6, February 2012 Page 39 Ţuca Zbârcea & Asociaţii New round of promotions

uca Zbârcea & Asociaţii made 10 internal promotions as part of the firm’s annual performance review last November. These Ţ nominations comprise seven managing associates and three senior associates, effective 1 January 2012. The firm also announced that it was letting more than 900 square metres of additional office space to expand its headquarters in Bucharest and so support the firm’s future growth plans. Managing Partner Florentin Ţuca commented: “The impressive overall performance of our teams and the quality of their work throughout these past 12 months made it difficult for us to reach a decision on this year’s promotions. All the promoted lawyers have demonstrated business acumen and strong legal expertise in their respective fields, and will most definitely play a key role in the Florentin Ţuca: quality of work made promotion future development of our practice across different decisions difficult areas. “In addition to handling regular client non-quantifiable criteria, which are set out and work, the seven new managing associates will be communicated to all the firm’s team members. particularly involved in daily business operations Further to the performance appraisal process, and in the decision-making process on key or future partners may also be appointed. In 2010, Ţuca sensitive business issues.” Zbârcea & Asociaţii made 11 promotions, including six to new partners. New managing and senior associates “In spite of no partner appointments being Anca Jurcovan, Oana Gavrilă, Mihaela Maxim announced this time due to the current economic (Ivan), Oana Cornescu, Raluca Mişu, Dragoş uncertainty and fears of a double-dip recession, we Apostol and Dominic Morega were promoted to shall continue to encourage performance at all levels Managing Associate. and remain true to our ongoing commitment to The new senior associates are Geanina Tache, grant our team members full and equal access to the Alexandru Anghel and Oana Mina. partnership formula,” said Florentin Ţuca. According to the firm’s officials, the annual performance review is carried out on the Business development basis of transparent and merit-based evaluation Expansion strategy and organic growth are central to criteria. These combine both quantifiable and the firm’s business development plans for 2012, with lateral hiring expected in the litigation, finance and banking, labour and fiscal practice groups. To support this growth, Ţuca Zbârcea & Asociaţii let another 917 square metres and expanded its headquarters in downtown Bucharest, now letting and using a total area of 2,600 square metres in the America House office building. www.tuca.ro

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 40 CHARITY NEWS keynote speaker at the Guide Dogs Transport and Mobility Independence Conference in London - a bi- annual fixture to shape policy with a view to improving the for blind independence of blind and partially-sighted people. One of and the conference organisers, the excellent Gail Stewartson, invited me to speak at the 2011 European partially- Guide Dog Federation Conference in Bucharest, and it was then that I witnessed both the exciting work sighted started by Light Into Europe, and just how much of a journey Romania must make to show blind people in and partially sighted people even basic levels of dignity.

Romania Providing opportunities During my first visit to Romania’s By Sean Dilley capital, I spent five days being (shown here with refused access to shops, having guide dog Chippy) my guide dog attacked by stray dogs while going about my daily business, and even being punched in the chest by a taxi driver for attempting to enter their car. But for me, the biggest ‘eye-opener’ came in discussions with those who teach Romanian disabled people in specialist schools. uide dogs are a regular sight in the UK for Teachers for the blind told me how sight those who are lucky enough to be able to see impaired people in Romania are discouraged from them, of course. We have just under 5,000 going out alone. I learnt how mobility training, Gworking guide dog partnerships at any one time, or orientation training is virtually unheard of, and and with over 80 years’ experience of training dogs when I visited the Bucharest School for the Blind and people, it’s fair to say that the UK’s Guide Dogs the next day, I witnessed first-hand just how bright for the Blind Association is on confident ground. these young boys and girls are. The same boys and The situation in Romania, however, is far from girls who are told that they shouldn’t work. The comparable. same boys and girls who are not allowed out alone. My involvement with the Romanian Guide The same boys and girls who are not taught basic Dog School, Light Into Europe, came about purely independent life skills. by good fortune. Having trained with my first guide I sat on the plane on my way home later that dog Brandy in 1999, and my second, Chippy in night with tears running down my face, thinking 2006, the producers of BBC’s flagship political of how those wonderful boys and girls may never programme ‘The Daily Politics’ felt I was the right person to highlight the guide dog discrimination that is alive and well in Blighty*. So we used state This is a unique, pioneering -of-the-art recording equipment to catch shopkeepers and business owners unlawfully refusing access to project that will transform working guide dogs, and showcased their behaviour Romanian society and you can be on national television. Following on from the the special remembered as a founder investigation’s success, I was asked to appear as * Blighty – A slang term for Britain Issue 6, February 2012 Page 41 have the opportunity to work, to enjoy life or to live as an equal - not through inability or lack of interest, but through the misguided attitudes of others. In the UK, blind people are lawyers and accountants. We’re computer programmers and politicians. We’re musicians and journalists - but crucially, we’re told we can be these things. We’re raised to have hope and encouraged to take the ample opportunity that is out there. Yes, we have barriers, and yes, some people lack faith in our abilities, but those of us who know we can, can. It is clear to me that Romanians are caring, compassionate people who want the best for their fellow man, Gabi and Chloe, the first guide dog in Romania and it’s clear to me that those Romanians I met and Light into Europe educated about the potential of blind and partially- Our mission is to develop programmes that will sighted people listened and learnt... all barring a enable the blind and deaf communities to raise their small handful that is, and to my great and lasting aspirations and partake fully of life regret, the most resistant were those whose job it is At present, Light into Europe has one to nurture and work with blind and partially-sighted working guide dog and eight puppies in training and people. But Romania can be grateful that Light Into needs ongoing funds to set up an actual School Europe IS enlightened and their torch of hope shines for guide dogs here, for food and for medical and bright. I look forward to working with them to training expenses. deliver much needed education to Romanian society, I appeal to you on behalf of thousands of and helping them give the same independence I young blind people in Romania, knowing your long enjoy to as many Romanian people as they can. community involvement and generosity to consider becoming a patron (in-corpore) of the first Guide for Sean Dilley is a TV, radio and print journalist, the Blind programme in Romania. based in the House of Commons, Westminster. He Just think for a moment that a donation of is a guide dog owner of 13 years and has worked €2,000 a year from each company member would his dog in six different countries. help towards doubling the actual number of guide dogs and would see the first school in place. This is a unique and pioneering project that in the years to come will transform Romanian society at large and you will be remembered as the founders.

To contact us, write to Stan Platt, Light into Europe Charity, email: [email protected]

Thank you. Stan Platt www.lightintoeurope.org

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 42 NESsT A passion for social enterprises. Take three... Put together: 1. a critical social problem Are you excited by the idea (lack of job opportunities in of joining us in developing future a former industrial town, lack sustainable social enterprises? If of access to basic health care so, you are welcome to join us. in a rural region, or a grave You can share your expertise with environmental problem – you the competition participants by name it), evaluating the feasibility studies 2. a passionate NGO or small and business plans they are due to business, and hand in this year. (Please write to 3. a catalyst for the local us at [email protected] and visit community’s capacity to our website – link below.) solve that social problem Since NESsT was sustainably. founded in 1997, we have grown NESsT is just such a of NESsT in Romania. The increasingly certain that social catalyst. It is a non-governmental participants received analysis enterprises will play a crucial international organisation which tools to determine their capacity role in the reinvention of our develops social enterprises that to implement a social enterprise economy. They create jobs where solve critical social problems in and also the potential of their they are most needed, solve social emerging market countries. What social enterprise idea. We also problems when most urgent NESsT does is help organisations discussed the issue of the match and add meaning to a confused to find that one feasible idea that between the social mission of economy. With 15 years’ expertise puts the passion that created the the organisation and the financial behind us, you can take our word NGO in the first place to lucrative objectives. These tools included for it! work. The “X Factor” of the market research and analysis, organisation, if you wish. operations, management and basic www.nesst.org Driven by the passion of financial estimations. developing social enterprises in Romania, NESsT launched the Social Enterprise Competition in November – the third since it was founded five years ago. Dozens of NGOs sent in applications, with 85 organisations capable of bringing about amazing and sustainable changes in their specific communities. We have selected the most promising 25, which started the year-long planning stage process with NESsT in December 2011. This will enable them to acquire all the necessary skills to identify, assess and develop the best possible social enterprise idea for each organisation. Photo: Cristian Tzecu As part of the 2011-2012 A mother works on a soft toy using the sewing machine she has learned Social Enterprise Competition, to use. She is one of the employees of the social enterprise developed by the 25 were invited to benefit ACSIS, an association which helps at-risk mothers become financially from planning stage workshops independent by training and employing them in soft toy workshops. in early December. These were Support from NESsT enables ACSIS to expand its social offered by NESsT and hosted enterprise and tap into a market with great potential – large companies by the Romanian American with CSR programs who gear their purchasing policy towards socially Foundation, the strategic partner responsible products such as those created by ACSIS. Issue 6, February 2012 Page 43 U2 supports Casa It’s easy for Romanian employees to support this cause. Simply complete a Sperantei Hospice form that redirects 2% of the previous year’s taxes. Forms available from [email protected] or the charity website (link below). Photo: John Shearer

he world famous music group U2 has If you want to support this amazing cause, all contributed to the new audio-visual project you have to do is sign a form that redirects 2% of the for Casa Sperantei (House of Hope) Hospice, taxes paid to the state in the previous year. This is a Twhich provides free care for children and adults with simple and cost-free way for Romanian employees incurable diseases. Consisting of two movies – one to support this cause. Please ask for your form by three minutes and the other 60 seconds long – the contacting [email protected] or visit the charity project has been created and produced exclusively web page using the link below. for the NGO. Hospice Casa Sperantei is the biggest not-for- U2 members were so moved by the movie profit medical organisation in Romania, offering free and the humanitarian cause that they decided services to children and adults with incurable and life to offer the rights to use their hit song ‘One’ as limiting diseases. A pioneer in palliative care, Hospice the soundtrack for free. The movie is part of a Casa Sperantei, has been providing its services free of fundraising campaign for the hospice’s patients and charge in Bucharest, Brasov, Fagarasi and Zarnesti for can be seen on the Foundation’s website by clicking 20 years and is the designated centre of excellence for on the link below. Southeast Europe. “When we offered our services to Hospice Hospice care (palliative care) aims to relieve Casa Sperantei, we wished for an impactful project the pain and control symptoms for people with that would attract attention to this great humanitarian incurable diseases, while also providing social cause.” explained Mark Walton of Brici assistance as well as psychological and religious Entertainment. “It was very important for us that we counseling. managed to obtain the help of the greatest musicians in the world, not only for what they represent, but also because this project involves a great deal of people from different countries, who offered their time and talent to get this message across: “Hospice Casa Sperantei offers free support for patients suffering from incurable diseases, whether they are children or adults. We think the movie shows the love with which the patients are taken cared of at the hospice, both by doctors and nurses, and also the encouraging stories of the children and adults we met; we hope this movie will help the Hospice in its effort to raise funds” he said. The people who contributed to the project are Sharon Callaly, Principle Management Dublin, Colin Smith, Universal/ Mercury Music London, Paul Free care for people with incurable diseases – McGuinness and U2. whatever their age In addition, the project wouldn’t have been possible without Mark Walton, president and www.hospice.ro creative director of Brici Entertainment, Andrei Baltareţu, Image Director, Silviu Mustatea, editing and Andrei Oana, production. watch Casa Sperantei movies

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 44 British Expertise Business Briefing with HE Anca Boagiu, Transport Minister of Romania Date: 23/02/2012 Time 17:30 Venue: British Expertise 10 Grosvenor Gardens EVENTS CALENDAR February 9 Third edition of the Swiss Investors’ Forum organised by Business Review, 6.00 pm Capital Plaza Hotel, Bucharest 16 BRCC Business Mixer with the CCE-R (Romanian-Swiss Chamber), 6.30 pm Bo Concept Showroom, Bucharest 23 Business Briefing with HE Anca Boagiu, Romanian Transport Minister, 5.30 pm at British Expertise, 10 Grosvenor Gardens, London 28 Business Breakfast with Transparency International, 8.30 am Crowne Plaza, Bucharest March 13 Private-Public Partnerships (PPP) ‘Financing Future Projects in CEE,’ with support from the BRCC, The Brewery, London

27 Business Breakfast with the ICAEW on corporate governance, 8.30 am Crowne Plaza, Bucharest April 24 COBCOE Gala Dinner and Chamber of the Year Awards Ceremony, with guest speaker Dame Julia Cleverdon DCVO CBE, a renowned and inspiring speaker on business leadership and corporate social responsibility, 7.30 pm Royal Automobile Club, London

May 3 Business Breakfast with Leonard Orban, Minister for European Affairs, Bucharest (to be confirmed) Business Breakfast with the British Ambassador to Romania, to be confirmed,Bucharest June 28 Business Breakfast with Cristian Popa, Deputy Governor, National Bank of Romania, Bucharest

29 BRITISH DAYS PARTY 7.00 pm Hotel Epoque, Bucharest

UK - Nicole Ion +44 (0)7868 649990 Romania - Agata Stefan +40 (0) 752 003 066

FOUNDER AND SUSTAINING MEMBERS Alexandrion Group KPMG Romania Deleanu Vasile Avocati Alison Hayes Athénée Palace Hilton Bulboaca & Asociatii SCA Mares, Danilescu & Asociatii Point Max Hotel Epoque Rosia Montana Gold Corporation Sanders Polyfilms Ltd Smith & Felton Stanleybet International Thomson Reuters Zamfirescu Racoti Predoiu (ZRP) BRCC - FOCUSED ON MEMBERS’ NEEDS

Disclaimer: THE NEWS, VIEWS AND OPINIONS EXPRESSED HEREIN ARE SOLELY THOSE OF THE AUTHOR(S). THE PUBLISHERS AND AUTHOR(S) BEAR NO RESPONSIBILITY FOR ANY ACTS OR OMISSIONS CONTAINED HEREIN. News & Views Editor: Mrs Anne-Marie N Martin, Publisher: The British Romanian Chamber of Commerce ©

Issue 6, February 2012 Page 45