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New hires for two Chesterfield manufacturers

Two Chesterfield manufacturing businesses have announced new appointments, further strengthening their teams.

Jessica Blaney has joined Chesterfield-based Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings.

She has joined the long-standing family owned business as a sales administrator, bringing over 15 years of experience within construction and sales administration to Pinelog.

In her new role, Jessica will be supporting Pinelog’s busy sales team in managing customer enquiries and ensuring a seamless experience for clients from their initial contact through to the completion of their luxury timber lodge purchase.

Jessica joins Pinelog from the hospitality industry where she worked as a General Manager. Prior to working in hospitality Jessica worked for a large building material supplier of sustainable materials for 14 years. The role at Pinelog has enabled Jessica to return to an industry she knows and loves as well as have a better work life balance now that she has a young daughter.

She explained: “The job role at Pinelog sounded amazing and was exactly what I was looking for. Pinelog is a fantastic family-run local business, and it’s wonderful to be part of a tight-knit team again. I’m absolutely loving it. It’s a great environment to work in.”

Nick Grayson, Chairman of Pinelog Group, welcomed Jessica to the team, saying, “We are delighted to have Jessica join us. Her extensive experience in sales administration and her enthusiasm for the industry make her a great addition to our growing team.”

Jessica is the latest addition to Pinelog’s sales team headed by Judy Barwell. Earlier this year Lucy Wood re-joined the team as sales manager following a seven year career break to raise her young family. Pinelog prides itself on its parent-friendly work environment across the company, including its manufacturing facility in Chesterfield.

Pinelog, now in its fiftieth year, relocated to a larger site in Chesterfield which has facilitated an increase in production capacity, allowing for greater innovation and efficiency in their manufacturing process.

Elsewhere, Superior Wellness has announced the appointment of Magda Paradell as their new International Sales Manager. She joins them with over 15 years’ experience in the wellness sector.
Magda’s previous role was Export Area Manager at Aquavia Spa (one of Europe’s largest spa manufacturers) where she spent almost 16 years.

Magda spent 7 years as back office and customer service before moving in sales where she was Export Area Manager for 8 years. She specialised in B2B sales of hot tubs in a wide number of European markets including France, Belgium, Switzerland, Spain, Portugal and Italy. She holds a Tourism degree by the University of Manresa, and a Sales and Marketing Master by EAE Business School of Barcelona.

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director said: “Our sales team is growing rapidly to support the growth of the company. I am thrilled that Magda has joined the European Sales team.
“Her experience will be invaluable, she’s an outstanding addition to our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with her.”

Magda Paradell said: “It is with great pleasure I join the Superior Wellness team. This is a global company in a state of continuous evolution, boasting significant production capacity and an extensive array of highly competitive products.

“In addition to its offerings in the spa sector, the company is diversifying into other related products within the wellness industry. I see this as a remarkable opportunity to pursue professional challenges and to contribute meaningfully to the growth of the organisation.”

Pinelog Ltd and Superior Wellness support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Magda superior wellness

 

 

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in , , , ,

We Are Spaces attains prestigious CIOB accreditation

A Chesterfield business specialising in commercial interior design and workspace transformation has received prestigious accreditation from the Chartered Institute of Building.

CIOB is the leading international professional body for those working in and leading the construction industry. Established in 1834, it offers a range of services including membership, professional development, qualifications, and resources to support individuals and organisations in shaping the future of the built environment, driving innovation, sustainability, and ethical practices.

The accreditation is the latest in a string of successes for We Are Spaces, having recently expanded into larger office premises at the Northern Gateway Enterprise Centre.

Amy Revell, Co-Founder and Director at We Are Spaces explained the importance of the firm’s latest achievement: “We are one of the few fit out contractors to achieve this prestigious accreditation in the UK. Being awarded CIOB accreditation shows that as an organisation, we have demonstrated high levels of competence, commitment and excellence, whilst fostering a collaborative culture where ideas and expertise are shared to achieve the best outcomes.”.

“Our CIOB accreditation gives our clients confidence our standards are high, and our ability to successfully deliver is robust. Our accreditation also helps to attract likeminded and highly skilled individuals to join our growing team.

In terms of the company’s further growth, Amy added: “We’ve got a firm business plan for the next 5 years and sustainable growth is a key goal, ensuring we grow at an appropriate rate, with the best people in our industry.

“We’re looking to nationally grow our three key businesses within the group. They are We Are Spaces, our interior fit-out business, We Are FM which specialises in facilities management, and We Are Interiors which focuses on commercial interior and external decorating and specialist finishes.”

Andy Dabbs, Destination Chesterfield Board Member and Chair of the town’s Property and Construction Group added: “It’s so pleasing to see We Are Spaces achieving CIOB accreditation and continuing to grow and thrive in our town.

“The property and construction sector plays a huge role in creating jobs and improving the built environment in Chesterfield. The continued growth of our businesses will enable the town to attract further investment and create more opportunities in our local economy.”

We Are Spaces supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Amy We Are Spaces COIB Certificate

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Chesterfield to welcome new board games café to town centre

Excitement is building for the opening of Chesterfield’s first ever board game café, which is on track to open in the town centre later this year.

Board & Bean will be a location for people of all ages to enjoy locally sourced food, drink and play games. The venue will also be dog friendly.

Renovations are now taking place at the café – formerly the H&F café and tearooms on New Beetwell Street.

Co-owner of the new venue, John McAssey is opening it alongside two colleagues. He commented: “We have grown up in Chesterfield and love the area. Hopefully we will bring something new and exciting to our town.

“Our games library is growing every day and we expect there to be around 500 games on offer at launch on 1st December 2024. We will have a great variety of games from classic pub games to long spanning role playing games.”

Board & Bean will also host special evening events with a focus on tabletop role-playing games, Blood on the Clocktower, miniature painting and more.

The café will boast hand crafted “proper” board game tables, which people will be able to book online. The business will be using new “Guru” software to help customers in making better gaming choices based on the player count, time available and ease of play.

Owners John, Andy and Clint are aiming to turn Board & Bean into a community hub, bringing gamers in Chesterfield and beyond together, allowing people find new games and link up with others. A membership will also be available, which includes discounted food and drink, table charges and event access. Furthermore, the business is looking to work with other like-minded venues in Chesterfield to provide benefits to members.

Renovations are starting soon to ensure disability access throughout the café. A space which is currently partially covered space twill be turned into more indoor space to allow for two rooms to game and socialise.

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield board member commented: “We are very excited for the upcoming opening of Board & Bean in Chesterfield.

“The venue will add to our town’s leisure offer, providing hours of fun and a locally sourced menu for those who visit.

“I’m positive that Board & Bean will be enjoyed by residents and visitors coming in Chesterfield, adding even more vibrancy to our town and giving people another great place to spend their free time with loved ones.”

For more information about Board & Bean, and to keep an eye on the progress during renovations, head over to the Board and Bean social media pages.

Planning a visit to Chesterfield? Find out how you can make the most of your trip by heading over to our visiting pages.

Exterior of building with mural painted on the side

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , , , ,

New era in mental healthcare as hotel-style facilities open in Chesterfield

A brand-new facility is set to open in Chesterfield this September, transforming the treatment of mental health for people in our area.

Derbyshire Healthcare’s new Bluebell Ward will open at Walton Hospital, with single, en-suite rooms and calm breakout spaces available.

Bluebell Ward will provide mental healthcare for 12 older adults and is the first of six facilities to open in the Making Room for Dignity programme, which gives every service user their own en-suite bedroom.

The building has undergone a £2.8million refurbishment and opens in early September, when existing patients will make the four-mile journey from the Hartington Unit by taxi.

Ward manager Nicola Owen is excited about being part of the first Making Room for Dignity team to make the move.

She said: “This project has been almost four years in the making so we can hardly believe the time to move is almost here. It’s an exciting time to be working at Derbyshire Healthcare because the new ward will not only be a quieter and more comfortable environment for our service users, but will be a wonderful place to work. Plus, it’s a great honour to be the first Making Room for Dignity facility to open.”

The design of the ward has been a truly collaborative project, with input from staff, service users and carers.

As well as en-suite facilities, each bedroom will have a television and the opportunity to personalise the space with artwork or photos. Patients will also have more control of their environment, with the ability to adjust room temperature and lighting.

The bedrooms will provide privacy and dignity while communal spaces will encourage engagement in meaningful activity. There are quiet spaces and easy access to green spaces, including an occupational therapy garden which has been created with help from Chesterfield College students. It features raised beds so service users can enjoy easy access to hands-on gardening.

Nicola added: “The garden is to be a fantastic addition. Currently our service users on Pleasley Ward have to be escorted outside by a member of staff. For our service users to be able to visit the garden whenever they choose is just one of many wonderful improvements we are looking forward to.”

Nurse stood in garden at new mental health facility

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Several Chesterfield Champions named as finalists for Derbyshire Business Awards

A number of Chesterfield Champion businesses have been listed amongst the finalists for the prestigious Derbyshire Business Awards, hosted by East Midlands Chamber.

The Champions included in the list of nominations include Global Brands Ltd, SDE Group, Shed Grounds Maintenance, Dalton Roofing, KranLee Logistics, DBC Training, EcoTech Engineers and Geeks Headquarters.

Finalists were revealed at the President’s Summer Celebration on 21st August. Finalists were selected by a panel of judges made of sponsors and senior management at East Midlands Chamber.

East Midlands Chamber President Stuart Dawkins said: “When I look at the people and organisations that have entered or been fortunate enough to become finalists for this year’s East Midlands Business Awards I’m blown away by the calibre and talent. The quality of entries was exceptionally high and I’m sure the judging panels had some tough decisions to make as the shortlist was compiled.

“To host today’s Summer Celebration was a proud moment; it’s been wonderful to see so many influential and inspirational people in one place. The East Midlands business community is strong and when I see so many leaders, rising talent, apprentices, and innovative people all in one place, I’m reminded why the region is a Centre of Trading Excellence. While announcing the finalists is exciting, it’s the sharing of ideas that means everyone at an event like this gains.

“I’m looking forward to seeing the finalists that were revealed today at the Business Awards which are not too far away now. Even if not a finalist, the opportunity to be among so many businesses and to converse with them is really worthwhile so for anyone that hasn’t yet booked to attend, I’d urge them to do so.”

Nick Catt, Destination Chesterfield Board Member commented: “It is fantastic to see so many of our Chesterfield Champions nominated as finalists in these prestigious awards.

“The East Midlands Chamber business awards showcase the best companies across our region, and to see so many fantastic companies growing and thriving in our town is very pleasing.

“Congratulations to all businesses nominated, and we wish you the best of luck at the Awards on the 25th October.”

chamber business awards 2023 rose cottage

Business Improvement Through Technology

  • DevTank
  • Defib4Life
  • Global Brands Ltd

Community Impact Award

  • SPATIAL Careers Service
  • Royal School for the Deaf
  • E Safety Training
  • Derby Theatre
  • AtkinsRéalis

Outstanding Growth Award

  • Longbow Venues
  • Alphageek
  • Enicor
  • SDE Group
  • Valve & Process Solutions

Excellence in Collaboration

  • TecInteractive | Blueprint Interiors
  • Derby Theatre | Derby City Council Volute |
  • Tomato Energy | Cleeve School & Sixth Form
  • Railston & Company | GEV Wind Power

Environmental Impact Award

  • Shed Grounds Maintenance
  • DevTank Ltd
  • Cosy Direct
  • Purpose Media
  • Tomato Energy

Commitment to People Development Award

  • Dalton Roofing
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Pennine Healthcare
  • Sky Recruitment Solutions
  • Longbow Venues

Education and Business Partnership Award

  • DBC Training
  • University of Derby | Rolls Royce Submarines
  • Royal School for the Deaf
  • Hardy Signs
  • Derby Theatre | Saint Ralph Sherwin Trust

Apprentice of the Year

  • Jessica Mitchell, EMA Training
  • Amber Whitby, Pentaxia
  • Sarah Illsley, Pentaxia
  • Amie-Jayne Knight, Sky Recruitment Solutions

Entrepreneur of the Year

  • Rob Hattersley, Longbow Venues
  • Elaine Penhaul, Lemon & Lime Interiors
  • Laura Holland, EcoTech Engineers
  • Katy Upton, Fortitude Nicsa

Excellence in Customer Service

  • Anoki
  • Longbow Venues
  • Radisson Blu East Midlands Airport
  • KJB Toolhire
  • Ascentant Accountancy

Excellence in International Trade

  • Global Brands
  • Valve & Process Solutions
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Altek Europe

Small Business of the Year

  • Thompson Tree Services
  • Geeks Headquarters
  • Bluebell Dairy
  • KranLee Logistics
  • Astute Recruitment

Excellence in Innovation

  • Gordon Ellis & Co
  • Brilliant Ideas
  • Tomato Energy

Business of the Year

  • To be announced at the award ceremonies
Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Featured, Home, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , , ,

Tapton Lock Festival to return for a special one-day event

Organisers have confirmed that the Tapton Lock Festival will return next month for a special one-day event. The Tapton Lock Mini is a capsule festival that will take place on Sunday 8th September.

In April, Chesterfield-based arts charity, Junction Arts, announced that due to unforeseen circumstances, they would not be able to stage the full weekend event this year, but the organisation was keen to do something on a smaller scale for their loyal visitors to enjoy.

Project Manager, Jane Wells said. “We’re excited to present Tapton Mini for 2024! The event is small, but perfectly formed, visitors will can enjoy a trip on a narrowboat, try the ever-popular ‘Have a Go’ canoes or take part in two artist-led creative workshops and make something beautiful to take home.

“Junction Arts is also very excited to present our newly commissioned theatre piece, The Journey from Here to Now, which includes contributions from children and young people in and around Chesterfield! Adverse Camber, an independent storytelling company has created a unique and brand new promenade performance. There will be three shows throughout the day for visitors to watch, walk with or participate in!

“Junction Arts would like to reassure Tapton fans that we are already working hard planning next year’s event which will be better than ever! There will be all the things you’ve grown to love as well as some sensational new additions.”

The Tapton Lock Festival was launched in partnership with Derbyshire County Council in 2013 and became a much-loved family festival, taking place along the Chesterfield Canal near the Tapton Lock Visitor Centre every September.

Tapton Lock Mini will take place on Sunday 8th September, from 10am until 4pm around Tapton Lock Visitor Centre, all activities are free and people of all ages are invited to get involved.

Looking for things to do or places to visit in Chesterfield? Head over to our visiting pages to find out more about shops, bars, restaurants, events, attractions and more!

Junction Arts supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Woman dancing and clapping while another woman plays violin

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RA Information Systems announces transition to employee ownership

RA Information Systems, a Chesterfield software company and IT solutions provider, has announced its transition to an employee-owned business through an Employee Ownership Trust (EOT).

The company announced: “We are delighted to transition to an Employee Ownership Trust, a move that reflects our commitment to sustaining the company’s independence and recognising the invaluable contributions of our employees. This decision not only secures the future of our business but also honours the legacy of our founders by preserving the unique culture that has defined RA Information Systems for over three decades.

An EOT is particularly well-suited to RA Information Systems’ business model, where people are at the heart of its success. By placing ownership in the hands of those who contribute most, The company is aligning its structure with its long-term vision and values. This transition allows the firm to continue providing the high level of service which clients have come to expect while giving something back to dedicated colleagues.

The Trustee of the RA Information Systems EOT Limited now owns 100% of the company shares. The initial Trustee Directors include Rob Dabbs, Helen Hadfield, and Rachel Judge, who will oversee the trust and ensure that it continues to serve the best interests of the employees and the business.

There will be no immediate changes to the day-to-day management of the company. The founding family—Rob, Annette, and Jon Dabbs—will continue to be actively involved, ensuring continuity and stability. The firm is confident that this new ownership structure will provide the stability, depth of management knowledge, and quick decision-making necessary to support customers well into the future.

Rob Dabbs, Trustee Director at RA Information Systems, commented: “This transition to an Employee Ownership Trust is a natural evolution for our company. It ensures that our values are safeguarded while maintaining our unique culture. For our customers, it’s business as usual—we remain committed to delivering excellence, with the same dedication and passion that has always been at the core of RA Information Systems.”

RA Information Systems supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

RA Information Systems land

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Housing boost for the East Midlands with 1,500 homes to be built on brownfield sites

Nearly 1500 homes are set to be built on brownfield sites across the region following a cash boost from East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA).

A dozen schemes in Derby, Derbyshire, Nottingham and Nottinghamshire have been identified for grants to support housing development on brownfield land through the government’s Brownfield Housing Fund, which has allocated nearly £17million to EMCCA to deliver the developments.

Mayor of the East Midlands, Claire Ward, who called for more homes to be built on brownfield sites during her campaign to be elected as the East Midlands’ first Mayor said: “I’m delighted we’ve been able to kickstart a housing revolution across the region so quickly and begin the challenges of delivering the homes people here need.

“These housing developments will see under-used sites brought back into life in our cities and communities with work starting on some sites. This is a significant stride toward unleashing the potential of brownfield regeneration across our region.”

EMCCA received 50 expressions of interest in bidding for funding for schemes across the region. Independent experts Cushman and Wakefield assessed the applications based on criteria including the ability to get schemes underway quickly.

Now the schemes will undergo further due diligence exercises ahead of business cases for each development being submitted to EMCCA’s Board for final approval.

“It’s really encouraging that applications for this funding were oversubscribed and I’m now working with Government to develop more opportunities for new homes on brownfield land and seeking support for extra funding to get more schemes underway.

“We’re also talking to Homes England about other ways to kickstart housebuilding across the region.”

Ben Pretty, Partner in Cushman & Wakefield’s national land, development and planning team said: “We received a high number of quality expressions of interest and have been through a rigorous sifting process to identify those most aligned to the EMCCA and MHCLG criteria. We look forward to working with EMCCA and scheme promoters to progress the 12 shortlisted schemes through to delivery on site to unlock around 1,500 new homes across the region.”

Jo Nugent, MPP Midlands Director at Homes England said: “Transforming brownfield sites into new communities with much needed new homes should benefit residents across the East Midlands. We’ve been working in partnership with EMCCA to bring these brownfield sites forward, and we now look forward to continuing to support these developments, providing expertise for the due diligence stage, and, ultimately, deliver high-quality homes, and thriving places in the East Midlands.”

If you’re looking for a perfect location and quality of life for you and your family, look no further than Chesterfield. Find out more about the fantastic quality of life in our town at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/about-chesterfield/living/

Stancliffe homes construction building

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Chamber teams up with University of Derby to deliver upcoming Sustainability Summit

The transition to net zero and getting over ‘climate fatigue’ are among issues taking centre stage at the East Midlands Sustainability Summit at the University of Derby on 12th September.

Presented by East Midlands Chamber in partnership with the University of Derby, the summit will bring together industry specialists, academics and the region’s business community to explore how to overcome challenges in changing working practices to tackle climate change.

East Midlands Chamber President Stuart Dawkins said: “The East Midlands, like all regions, has a responsibility to think carefully what it leaves behind for what I call Generation Next-But-One, those who will inherit the world we leave behind. All businesses should play their part in adopting measures that mitigate against and significantly reduce the catastrophic impact of climate change.

“The good news is that most businesses have already taken steps toward cutting their carbon usage, cutting out working methods that are not energy efficient, but this isn’t an easy challenge with a simple out of the box solution. The East Midlands Sustainability Summit is a place to hear and share best practice from a wide range of industries and to take an informed look at how we navigate the hurdles to achieve net zero.”

University of Derby Associate Professor of Strategy and Sustainability Dr Polina Baranova, who will speak on research into Green Growth trends in the East Midlands said: “The study we carry out into Green Growth in the East Midlands is now in its 9th year and I look forward to sharing the latest findings at the Sustainability Summit. From last year’s position we’ve seen encouraging signs of green growth recovery in the region. Within the context of political uncertainty around green business support at national and local level, businesses in the East Midlands continue to commit resources and develop strategic capabilities to compete in the green market niches at home and internationally.

“The research that we’ll present at the summit also reports an increase in the number of regional businesses investing in decarbonisation and biodiversity net gain. This signals an intensifying role of regional business in tackling climate challenges. Despite these developments, more needs to be done to excel and expand on the green growth progress that’s been made thus far, and at the summit I look forward to outlining how policy and local government can put forward measures to achieve that.”

Speakers at 2024’s East Midlands Sustainability Summit:

• Professor Chris Sansom – Professor of Concentrated Solar Power and Head of Zero Carbon Theme, University of Derby
• Dr Polina Baranova – Associate Professor of Strategy and Sustainability, University of Derby
• Julie Adams – Carbon, Cost and Procurement Consultant, Auditel.
• Becky Valentine – Co-owner, Sustainability & Building Health Consultant, Spenbeck
• Andy Wright – Responsible Business Director, Samworth Brothers
• Becky Clayton – Partner, PwC
• Stuart Dawkins – President, East Midlands Chamber

Building photographed from above with solar panels on the roof

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in , , , , ,

Meet the new Chesterfield bakery serving up delicious brownies

A new bakery has opened in Chesterfield, specilaising in serving coffee and decadent brownies to customers.

Located at York House, 38 St Mary’s Gate, this cozy spot is the latest addition for The Savvy Baker, which already boasts popular locations in York and Roundhay, Leeds.

After already proving popular in Yorkshire, the business is excited to bring its sweet treats to the Chesterfield community.

But that’s not all! The Savvy Baker Chesterfield is more than just brownies – the summer special drinks are already causing a stir among iced drink lovers.

Indulge in Iced Kinder, a chocolatey delight perfect for those hot summer days, or try Iced Biscoff, which comes topped with a creamy, dreamy Biscoff cold cream. For something refreshing and a little different, the Iced Raspberry Matcha is a must-try, combining the earthy notes of matcha with a burst of raspberry sweetness.

The Savvy Baker also proudly serves North Star Coffee, renowned for its rich and robust flavour.

box of sweet treats being held outside a shop

Situated in York House Business Centre, the new Chesterfield location offers a convenient and inviting space whether you’re looking for a quick pick-me-up or a place to relax. The shop is easily accessible, with an entrance from the street, making it a perfect stop for locals and visitors alike.

“We’re excited to expand our presence to Chesterfield and share our love of coffee and brownies with the community here,” said Savannah Roqaa Founder of The Savvy Baker. “Our goal is to create a welcoming environment where people can enjoy high-quality drinks and treats, whether they’re grabbing something on the go or taking a break from their day.”

With its central location and delicious offerings, The Savvy Baker Chesterfield is set to become a favorite spot for coffee enthusiasts and brownie lovers. The shop is open every day from 10:00 AM to 3:30 PM, and until 4:00 PM on Saturdays, giving you plenty of time to drop by and experience what everyone’s talking about.

Nick Hogan, Destination Chesterfield Board Member said: “I’m really pleased to see The Savvy Baker has chosen to open in our town centre, providing another great food and drink option for customers.

Chesterfield is home to many fantastic cafes, allowing visitors to spend time with their loved ones in the heart of our town, whilst creating jobs for local people.

“I would like to wish the Savvy Baker team lots of success in their new location.”

For more inspiration on delicious food and drink businesses across our town, along with great ideas to make the most of your time in Chesterfield, visit: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

The Savvy Baker Chesterfield

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Featured, Home, Leisure, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , , , , , ,

Destination Chesterfield welcomes eight new board members

Destination Chesterfield has announced the recruitment of eight new board members to strengthen the promotion of Derbyshire’s largest town.

The Destination Chesterfield Board is made up of local businesspeople who volunteer their time to influence the strategic direction of place-making and place marketing for Chesterfield.

Since being founded by Chesterfield Borough Council and local businesses in 2010, Destination Chesterfield has showcased the town as a contemporary destination to work, live, visit and invest.

The partnership works alongside a community of more than 230 businesses, known as Chesterfield Champions, to achieve this.  Board members are representatives from their Chesterfield Champion Companies.

Joining the Destination Chesterfield board are:

  • Ann Fomukong-Boden, Owner, Kakou CIC
  • Andrew Dabbs, Director, Whittam Cox Architects
  • Nick Hogan, Owner, Chesterfield Escape Rooms
  • Dominic Staniforth, Partner, BHP LLP
  • Ryan Wilkes, Director of Owner Managed Business, Shorts Chartered Accountants
  • James Borkoles, Head of Business Development, University of Derby
  • Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director, Devonshire Group
  • Nick Catt, Managing Director, Weightron Bilanciai

As the new board members begin their voluntary roles, the Chair of Destination Chesterfield, Peter Swallow has announced that he is stepping down from his position after 14 years of service.

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Vice Chair and Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council, will lead the board while a new chair is elected.

Peter commented: “It is fantastic to be signing off my chairmanship by welcoming eight new board members, who will all be helping to guide the future marketing and economic growth of Chesterfield.

“One of Chesterfield’s great strengths is the collaborative nature of its business community, and this is reflected in the broad range of sectors represented on the board. The new members all have a vast amount of knowledge and expertise when it comes to the needs of our businesses and communities.”

“As I come to the end of my service as Chair of this successful partnership, I would like to wish Destination Chesterfield and all organisations across our town success in bringing further growth and regeneration, fulfilling Chesterfield’s ambition to be a fantastic location to live, work, visit and invest.”

Cllr Tricia Gilby said: “On behalf of the Destination Chesterfield Board, I would like to thank Peter Swallow for his years of dedicated service to the town. I am looking forward to working with all new and existing members of the Destination Chesterfield board to continue building on the progress made by the partnership over recent years. Not only does Destination Chesterfield raise the profile of our town, it also acts as a vital private sector voice for the area, ensuring that our businesses are heard.”

Meet the new board members

Andrew Dabbs, Director, Whittam Cox Architects

“I’ve lived locally my entire life, and being part of a thriving business in Chesterfield is something I’m very proud of. I’m excited to be part of the Destination Chesterfield board, with my role going hand-in-hand with my existing involvement in the town’s Property and Construction Group. Being part of the board gives me a great opportunity to represent our sector and the communities we ultimately serve through our work. There is so much talent and quality in our region and I’m delighted to be working with colleagues to showcase it.”

Nick Hogan, Owner, Chesterfield Escape Rooms

“I genuinely feel honoured and privileged to be able to join such an experienced team, all with the intention of making our hometown a better to live, work, invest and visit. Everyone on the board has got something a little different to offer and specialise in. During the selection process, I focussed on my expertise of recently opening a business in the town centre. I firmly believe Chesterfield can buck the national trend and would love to engage with anyone thinking about opening a business in town. It only takes a few great businesses to open to create a snowball effect.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Owner, Kakou CIC

“I am deeply honoured to join the Destination Chesterfield board and play a greater part in supporting Chesterfield’s vibrant community. This role presents an incredible opportunity to contribute to the growth and well-being of our Town.

“My main aims and aspirations for this role are centred around fostering strong collaborative connections and partnerships within the Town’s diverse corporate, third sector and community organisations; in addition to shining a light on the creativity, innovation and heritage that define our unique Town.”

Dominic Staniforth, Partner, BHP LLP

Dominic Staniforth BHP

“Chesterfield is a town full of driven and passionate people who share a common purpose to make it an excellent place to live, work, invest and study. I am honoured to be joining the Destination Chesterfield board, which brings together leaders from our business community and the public sector to guide the strategic promotion of the town.

“This position will sit alongside my other exciting new role as Chair of the new Chesterfield Town Board, which will oversee the spending of almost £20m from the government to bring more positive change to our town.”

Ryan Wilkes, Director of Owner Managed Business, Shorts Chartered Accountants

“I am very grateful and honoured to be selected to represent Chesterfield, where I have called home all my life. I am keen to build on my knowledge of the area, to help provide support and showcase both emerging and established businesses in Chesterfield, as well as the town as a whole.

“I have a unique insight into the thriving businesses around the area through my role at Shorts, which I would like to share and shout about to attract new business to Chesterfield and show what a great town it is. Talent attraction and retention are also big areas I would like to focus on. We have a great business community here, and we need to continue building talent to help grow our organisations. I want to help show the rest of the UK what Chesterfield has to offer, and to show the people and businesses of Chesterfield why they should stay!”

James Borkoles, Head of Business Development, University of Derby

“I’m very excited to be joining the Destination Chesterfield board at this critical time – the pace of change is relentless and there are significant opportunities to set our sights high in terms of developing Chesterfield as a first choice place for businesses to start, develop and thrive.

“My involvement, and that of the University of Derby, is to ensure that businesses are given the best support possible to establish themselves, grow and evolve to meet the challenges in the short and long term. This might be through skills provision, apprenticeships and securing talent to grow your business, or it might come through innovative, applied research and consultancy.”

Andrew Byrne, Property Development Director, Devonshire Group

“I’m delighted to be joining the Destination Chesterfield Board. The Devonshire Group has a long-standing relationship with Chesterfield and through our property development activity we are actively investing into the area.

“Working with the Council and Chesterfield College we have partnered in the delivery of the Construction Skills Hub on our housing scheme at Mastin Moor.  Having a skilled workforce is key to the area’s success and I hope to continue to help shape and deliver those skills, to ensure Chesterfield remains a great place in which to invest.”

Nick Catt, Managing Director, Weightron Bilanciai

Man smiling at camera wearing blue formal jacket

“I’m enthused and excited to become part of the Destination Chesterfield board. I love working in the town because of our central location with great access to the motorway network, businesses can find good employees who benefit from a great work/life balance.

“I’m particularly looking forward to the redevelopment of the town centre and market square. I would like to see our town further develop its nighttime culture, with more places for people to go and enjoy, encouraging more visitors to our area.”

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