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East Midlands Chamber launches Generation Next Awards 2024 to celebrate region’s young talent

Young business talent across the East Midlands will be showcased through the Generation Next Awards as the programme launches its 2024 season.

The awards are the showpiece programme of Generation Next – a network for young professionals and entrepreneurs aged between 18 and 35, which is run by East Midlands Chamber in conjunction with headline partner the University of Derby.

It features 12 categories, ranging from a Start-up Award and Customer Service Award through to Innovation and Technology Award and the Generation Next Future Leader.

The programme includes a new addition, the “Investing in Young Talent Award”, that recognises forward-thinking businesses which provide mentorship, training and growth opportunities for young professionals.

The application process of each category award is streamlined to a “one form fits all” method involving a reduced number of questions.

Lucy Robinson, East Midlands Chamber’s director of resources and Generation Next lead, said: “The Generation Next Awards are a celebration of the amazing young talent within the East Midlands, and our diverse programme recognises the next generation of business who make outstanding contributions to their communities.

“We want to encourage young professionals from across the region to tell their story and celebrate their successes.”

This year’s ceremony will be held on 4 July, and the venue will be confirmed in the coming months.

Entries are open for the 2024 awards until Monday 11 March. They can be submitted either by individuals within the 18 to 35 age bracket or on their behalf by a colleague or line manager.

Applications can be downloaded at www.generationnextemc.co.uk/awards and should be emailed to the Generation Next team at gennext@emc-dnl.co.uk upon completion.

Generation Next Awards 2024 categories

  • Future Leader Award (sponsored by the University of Derby)
  • Apprentice of the Year Award (sponsored by Loughborough College)
  • Creators and Makers Award (available for sponsorship)
  • Customer Service Award (sponsored by Express Recruitment)
  • Entrepreneur of the Year Award (available for sponsorship)
  • Environmental Warrior Award (sponsored by Hydropath Technology Group)
  • Equality, Diversity and Inclusivity Award (sponsored by Futures Housing Group)
  • Innovation and Technology Award (sponsored by Hardy Signs)
  • Rising Star Award (sponsored by Nottingham Trent University)
  • Start-up Award (sponsored by University of Nottingham)
  • Volunteering and Charitable Impact Award (sponsored by ITS Technology)
  • New for 2024 – Investing in Young Talent Award (available for sponsorship)

Generation Next Awards 2024

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Refurbishment completed at Chesterfield town centre pub

A pub in the heart of Chesterfield, sitting next to the town’s historic market has undergone a refurbishment, with owners saying the venue looks ‘unrecognisable’ from its previous layout.

The Crown and Cushion has been revamped and transformed in the space of just six days, with visitors giving rave reviews to the pub for its new look.

After changing the exterior with a new coat of paint and signage last year, work has now taken place to brighten up the interior of the pub too.

The pub has been brightened up with much lighter pastel colours used throughout, complemented by feminine fabrics and patterns and lots of on-trend foliage with graffiti that incorporates features from the magnificent history of the market town.

Managers of the Crown and Cushion, Gill and Diane told us: “It’s such an amazing pub, with so much history and deserves the love that has been put into it with this makeover. We’ve seen lots of new faces at our launch party as well as the regulars returning, and everyone is absolutely loving the pub and what the company have done with it!

Crown and Cushion-bar area

The owners are also looking forward to the year ahead, with further plans to host entertainment and fun for guests.

They added: “We’ve got loads of exciting plans coming for 2024, with some great entertainment. Fun and friendly is our vibe – and that’s what this year is going to be all about.

“Head to the Crown and Cushion to see the transformation, and be sure to say hi!”

To find out more about the pub, head over to the Crown and Cushion Facebook page.

With plenty of unique ways to create a memorable night out, there is something for everyone in Chesterfield – no matter what you enjoy. Check out our visiting page for some great ideas and activities in the town: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/visiting/

Crown and Cushion interior

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Global Brands announces net zero strategy

Global Brands, an independent UK drinks company based in Chesterfield has committed to a sustainability journey to reach net zero by 2050.

The business is the largest supplier of packaged cocktails to the UK off-trade with brands including VK and Shake Baby Shake, and resides over the second largest premium tonic brand in the UK on-trade, Franklin & Sons. Global Brands acquired Hooch, Hooper’s and Reef from Molson Coors in 2023.

The sustainability journey for Global Brands commits to a path to net zero by 2050, with a 92% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset. By 2030, Global Brands will have a 40% reduction in emissions per £M turnover and the remainder offset.

The drinks business has achieved carbon neutral status this year, offsetting current carbon emissions while starting to reduce scope 1, 2 and some of scope 3 emissions. Emissions are based on an assessment by Carbon Footprint Ltd of the operational emissions across Global Brands facilities and transport activities.

Current carbon reduction strategies across the business include running operations from solar panels on the roof of the company’s 181,000 square foot warehouse, starting to switch the lorry fleet to HVO fuels, and commitments to reduce single use plastic across the business.

Key to the carbon reduction strategy is a focus on logistics and distribution – the main source of carbon emissions across Global Brands. By 2030, the entire lorry fleet will run on HVO fuels.

In the short term, Global Brands are supporting several projects that compensate for emissions that can’t be reduced immediately. To achieve this, Global Brands are investing in wind power initiatives in several developing countries, reducing and removing emissions, creating jobs and improving livelihoods, reducing dependency on other countries for energy, and protecting natural resources. These projects are across North West Africa, the Dominican Republic, and India, and are managed through Verified Carbon Standard, the world’s leading greenhouse gas crediting program.

Across the Global Brands portfolio, 100% of cans, plastic, and glass bottles are recyclable, with 90% of brands utilising 100% recyclable paper labels.

Zehra Gezer, Head of Marketing Projects at Global Brands: “At Global Brands, it’s our mission to continue creating and delivering delicious liquids and remarkable brands, enjoyed the world over.

“Many of our products such as Hooch and VK, are easy-drinking beverages for partying and fun, and these shouldn’t come with an environmental impact.

“Likewise, sourcing and infusing the most remarkable ingredients from across the globe into every Franklin & Sons product, shouldn’t be at the expense of increased emissions.

“Across Global Brands, we do recognise that we operate in a significantly single use industry, with many products in our category prioritising convenience over sustainability. But having a good time and enjoying remarkable drinks shouldn’t be at the expense of the environment.

“We understand that offsetting emissions is only a part of reducing our carbon footprint in the short-term, and long-term action is ultimately required to become truly carbon neutral.

“However, we believe it is important to do everything in our power to balance our impact as a business in the here and now, so we are proud to support a number of projects that compensate for the emissions we cannot reduce immediately by funding an equivalent carbon dioxide saving elsewhere.

“Through an active carbon emissions reduction strategy, we’re committed to reaching net zero by 2050, and this sustainability journey will underpin and encourage sustainable growth, especially as we continue to expand internationally and supply drinks that can be enjoyed the world over to more consumers.”

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

 

hooch global brands

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Chamber lands global accreditation for workplace wellbeing

East Midlands Chamber is helping to set the bar for workplace wellbeing after landing a global accreditation – with the help of the region’s top expert in the field.

The region’s largest business representation group has achieved the WELL Health-Safety Rating at its offices in Chesterfield and Nottingham, following consultancy support from workplace consultants and office fit-out specialists Blueprint Interiors, based in Ashby-de-la-Zouch.

Administered by the International WELL Building Institute (IWBI), the rating is an evidence-based, third-party verified rating for buildings that focuses on operational policies, maintenance protocols, stakeholder engagement and emergency plans to address a post-Covid environment now and into the future.

WELL certification helps large and small businesses to take the necessary steps in order to prioritise the health and safety of their staff, visitors and stakeholders by reviewing environmental aspects such as air and water quality, nourishment, light, noise and comfort.

The WELL Health-Safety Rating focuses on stakeholder engagement, health resources, emergency preparedness and cleaning procedures. East Midlands Chamber director of resources Lucy Robinson said: “The pandemic shone a new light on how we manage workspaces in order to instil confidence among employees and visitors who use our buildings, whether it is everyday or on a hybrid working basis.

“We therefore felt it was important to adopt a recognised standard to ensure our buildings support the wellbeing of our people when they are working from the office in order to support collaboration with colleagues.

“Working closely with our patron Blueprint Interiors, we focused on areas including air and water quality management, cleaning and sanitation, emergency preparedness, health service resources, and stakeholder engagement and communication.

“As a result of these efforts, we are delighted to have received the WELL Health-Safety Rating, which we believe will enhance our offer as an employer of choice in the region while also acting as an exemplar for our 4,000-plus members.”

Workplace design consultancy and interior fit-out specialist Blueprint Interiors became the first company in the East Midlands to achieve the WELL Health-Safety Rating in 2021, and now supports other businesses to meet the requirements for accreditation.

Rebecca Beadle is a WELL-accredited professional, and lead project designer and well-being specialist at Blueprint Interiors.

She said: “We are continuously innovating in order to bring workplace consultancy, practical processes, sustainable building techniques, psychological theory, data insights and accreditations such as the WELL Building Standard together to ensure workplaces meet the needs of the people that use them. East Midlands Chamber has fully embraced all these principles and we are pleased to have been able to support it to achieve this prestigious rating.”

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

Dean Symonds and Lucy Robinson

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Rodgers Leask keep plans on track for new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill

Further details for the new rail innovation centre at Barrow Hill Roundhouse have been revealed by one of the companies involved in the project.

National engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask is leading the design team currently working on RIBA Stage 4 designs for the Derbyshire Rail Industry Innovation Vehicle (DRIIVe) in Chesterfield, which is awaiting planning permission.

The modern rail innovation and training centre will provide more than 1,400 square metres of floor space consisting of classroom and workshop training areas, and specialist research and development facilities – including a digital laboratory and commercial offices.

Appointed via the ESPO 2664 framework, Rodgers Leask’s involvement so far includes a full-service offering, comprising structural and civil engineering consultancy, geo-environmental engineering investigations and transport planning advice. The consultancy’s various experts are working to overcome the operational constraints posed by the busy industrial site, while also protecting the surrounding area’s interesting features – such as the historically significant Barrow Hill Roundhouse.

Kriston Harvey, director at Rodgers Leask, said: “This is a very important project for the area and therefore we’re proud to be involved. Not only will it bring additional full-time jobs to the local area, it will also provide training facilities to enable people to learn new skills and open the door to highly skilled career opportunities in the rail industry. The research and development aspect of the building will see it become a prominent location for rail technology research and innovation, with fantastic links to the rail network.

“As everyone recognises the significant benefits that the project can bring to the community, engagement between the client, design team and other key stakeholders has been very positive and productive.

“Chesterfield has a clear vision for how it wants to develop over the coming years, with a strong plan for growth – it has been exciting to work with the council on this key project.”

In total the building is expected to cost around £4 million, with funding for the project being provided through the Staveley Town Deal. Development of the centre is being delivered by Barrow Hill Engine Shed Society, Chesterfield Borough Council and New Rail – part of Newcastle University.

Mervyn Allcock, general manager at Barrow Hill Roundhouse, said: “If it is approved, DRIIVe will help establish Barrow Hill as the home of the rail industry in Chesterfield and we look forward to speaking to companies about the potential benefits of being based at the centre. Any revenue from the building will be used to support the Roundhouse in achieving its aim of preserving our local Rail heritage.”

Councillor Tricia Gilby, leader of Chesterfield Borough Council and vice chair of the Staveley Town Deal Board, said: “The Rail sector offers a fantastic range of high-quality careers and DRIIVe is all about ensuing our residents can receive the skills and training they need to access these opportunities. This is an ambitious project that will create opportunities for generations to come and reflects the council’s aims to expand the local Rail sector.

“I’m delighted that Town Deal funding is being used to support the development of this building because new training facilities like this will improve career prospects and help ensure that Staveley is the place to start, to stay and to grow.”

Rodgers Leask is working alongside architect Frank Shaw Associates, building services consultancy CPW and planning consultant Planning & Design Group. A planning decision is expected in early 2024.

For more information on civil, structural, geo-environmental and transport engineering consultancy Rodgers Leask, visit rodgersleask.com.

Rodgers Leask, Barrow Hill Roundhouse and Chesterfield Borough Councill support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire. The business is also a member of the town’s Property and Construction Group.

Driive artists impression

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Chesterfield business to feature on TV’s Dogs Behaving Badly

A Chesterfield Doggy Daycare business is set to feature on Channel 5 show, Dogs Behaving Badly this year.

The show’s host, Graeme Hall visited Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare to hire the centre’s ‘field of freedom’ to train two dogs.

The space was used to teach the dogs to walk better whilst on a lead, with Rose Cottage providing a secure location with large fencing, in case the pets were playing up! The epsiode is expected to be aired in the summer of 2024.

Dawn Brown, Owner of Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare commented: “Graeme was a very chatty, great guy. He spent time with me and my team before and after the filming. He also signed books for us and we have lots of pictures with him”

“To be picked out of the whole of Derbyshire to use our field was amazing, and will definitely help us to stand out. He said they searched for a field to hire and ours came up when they researched our services. They were highly impressed with our site, our branding, and our whole different take on dog care in general. We were happy to oblige and would of course welcome further filming if required whilst in our region.”

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care can offer dog owners a full day of enrichment for their beloved pets, covering basic physical emotional and social needs, which ultimately results in a happy dog at the end of the day.

The centre also offers a luxury doggy hotel with TV, air conditioning, and sofas. However, the dogs only enjoy this luxury at night time, because in the day they are far too busy making the most of Rose Cottage’s 5.5 acre site. All walks are done on-site too, with safety always being the top priority.

Rose Cottage Doggy Daycare supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

dogs behaving badly visits rose cottage

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in , , , ,

Conference to showcase skills support on offer to Chesterfield firms 

Businesses in Chesterfield and North Derbyshire are being urged to capitalise on the support available to assist with improving the skills of their employees.

The Chesterfield and North Derbyshire Skills and Employability Conference will highlight the support available for businesses to upskill their workforce, further enabling local organisations to grow organically. The event is being hosted at Chesterfield’s Winding Wheel Theatre, on Thursday, 8th February 2024 (8am-11am).

Book your free place at the event here.

Research conducted by East Midlands Chamber found that 72% of local businesses have difficulties in recruiting suitable staff. Meanwhile, The Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (2022), found that nearly two-fifths of organisations (38%) are increasing efforts to meet their needs by developing more talent in-house. Upskilling existing employees is the most common response to solving recruitment issues.

Attendees will hear how local businesses have benefited from investing in upskilling existing employees, including through apprenticeships. BHP Chartered Accountants will share how they have promoted more than 70 of their own staff into more senior roles within the last year, alongside taking on more than 40 new trainees.

Chesterfield Borough Council will also reveal more details about its new skills brokerage service for businesses. Funded through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the service aims to give firms a single point of contact for impartial advice and support on how to fill vacancies and reduce skills gaps within their organisations.

College student construction

Cllr Tricia Gilby, Leader of Chesterfield Borough Council commented: “We’re proud to support the annual Skills and Employability Conference because we believe it helps businesses to share best practice and encourages them to work together to develop the skills of our residents, creating a resilient workforce who are able to capitalise on new opportunities and help local businesses to grow. This year the conference will be heavily focused on the support that local businesses can access and I’d encourage any business owner to come along and find out more about the help available to them.”

Michael Timmins, Chair of the town’s Skills and Employment Partnership and Director at AECOM, said: “The annual Skills and Employability Conference continues to prove popular with firms across the town, enabling them to gain the latest information on the initiatives taking place to ensure we keep producing a strong and talented workforce for our organisations to thrive. As a collective, our town must continue to play its part in unlocking the potential of our people, so I would urge any business owner in the area to attend the conference and see how we can support you to grow.”

The Chesterfield & North Derbyshire Employability & Skills Conference is delivered by the Chesterfield Skills and Employment Partnership in association with Chesterfield Borough Council and Destination Chesterfield.

employ event 873

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Win food and drink vouchers for Peddler Chesterfield by taking part in our survey

Chesterfield residents and visitors are being invited to share their views on the town through the latest Love Chesterfield surveys.

The Love Chesterfield Surveys include a consumer and business survey, which are published on a quarterly basis to provide feedback on what has been happening in and around Chesterfield.

Love Chesterfield is a campaign organised by Chesterfield Borough Council in partnership with Destination Chesterfield to promote and support high streets and town centres across the borough of Chesterfield.

The short surveys will ask you two different sets of questions, depending on if you are a consumer or a business owner.

The consumer survey will ask you to update us on what events or venues you have attended and services you have used recently in our communities.

The business survey will ask about your performance and any changes you have noticed in the last three months.

Please spend a few minutes to complete the relevant questionnaire. The results will allow us to monitor the performance of the town, the success of marketing campaigns and business support and will help to shape future activity to support high street businesses across the borough.

The survey will close on 19 February 2024.

At the end of the consumer questionnaire, there is an opportunity to win food and drink vouchers for two people at the next Peddler Chesterfield event on Friday 22nd March or Saturday 23rd March.

Businesses who complete the survey, will have the chance to enter a prize draw to win advertising for your business in the Destination Chesterfield business or leisure e-shot (worth £100).

  • The Leisure E-shot which is sent to nearly 8,000 contacts on a weekly basis or
  • The Business E-shot which is sent to almost 5,000 contacts on a weekly basis.

A winner will be drawn in Spring 2024. To qualify for the prize draw, you must have filled out the previous surveys in May, July and October 2023 as well as this survey.

The email the banner ad will feature in will depend on the type of services and products the winning business delivers – the most relevant email will be selected by matching the business end consumer with the email’s audience.

Complete the surveys here:

Business: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/blpp4h

Consumer: https://chesterfieldboroughcouncil.welcomesyourfeedback.net/weg9pr

Birdseye view of Chesterfield market place with stalls and people

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Chesterfield firms continue to play their part in the local community

Businesses which support Chesterfield through the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions are continuing to show their support for good causes in the local area.

See how the business community is helping to support various charities and good causes in our latest roundup.

Central Technology and Hopkinson Waste Management help to combat loneliness in North Derbyshire

Two white males having a meeting on yellow sofa, notebooks in hand at Central Technology, Dunston

Two Chesterfield businesses have recently shown their support for Brightlife, a charity which helps to prevent loneliness and isolation across our area.

Central Technology has launched an initiative, where for the upcoming months, any customer satisfaction survey completed will contribute to supporting the charity.

The firm aims to aid BrightLife in expanding its telephone befriending service, a lifeline for many.

Mark Cass, BrightLife’s Business Development and Marketing Manager, expresses his thanks: “We are thrilled that CT is backing our cause, making a tangible difference in the lives of those affected by loneliness. The ongoing cost of living crisis, recent heavy flooding and bad weather has proven to be a constant reminder to us of how important it is that we support older people who are vulnerable and isolated.

“We know from our own research that these individuals are often overlooked and represent a generation that is the last to complain. Our goal is to raise £50,000 to extend support in the area. It costs £6 to make one call, and a donation of £300 sustains weekly contact for an older person over 50 weeks of the year. We welcome the support from CT and their customers.”

Hopkinson Waste Jules and Adam

Elsewhere, Chesterfield’s Hopkinson Waste Management recently partnered with Liverpool-based PIN IoT in support of Brightlife, raising over £1,000.

Jules Gaylor, Managing Director for Hopkinson Waste commented. “By working together to raise funds for BrightLife we’re able to extend our partnership with PIN IoT beyond our normal skip hire operations. Our joint effort means we’re able to raise more funds and do more good to support the local communities in which we operate.”

College Santa Dash raises funds for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice

Chesterfield College Santa Dash participants

Just before Christmas. Chesterfield College’s annual Santa Dash took place at Queens Park in Chesterfield. Over 100 students and staff members joined in the fun, dressed up in festive attire and with their fundraising donations.

Courtney Beddingham, a regional fundraiser for Bluebell Wood commented on the charity’s partnership with the college: “I got in touch with the health and social care department initially to see if any of their students wanted to volunteer at the hospice. They came for a tour in the summer and really enjoyed their visit. From there, the college chose us as their Principal Charity of the Year.

“It’s really nice to see the younger generation learning about charities and the things we do. I think a worry for me is that the older generation is typically the giving generation. It’s a pleasure to raise the awareness of Bluebell Wood. We are currently supporting children the same age as the students, so it’s important for them to see how we are helping those children.”

After the race, awards were presented for the fastest three males and females, the best-dressed individual, the best-dressed team and also the most money raised.

Regional law firm raises £14,475 for Blythe House Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust

brm-solicitors-blythehouse-helens-trust-will-month-2023-hi-res

Chesterfield and Sheffield law firm BRM has raised an impressive £14,475 during its annual Wills month for North Derbyshire-based Blythe House Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust.

The partnership, now in its fifth year, sees BRM clients make a voluntary donation to Blythe House and Helen’s Trust in exchange for a free Will writing service.

This year’s Wills month marked BRM’s most successful yet, and thanks to the generosity of the firm’s clients, BRM has raised over £54,000 for the charity since 2017.

The money raised will go towards providing highly specialised end-of-life care and support for patients and their families.

The charity provides hospice care in the comfort of patients’ homes across North Derbyshire – including Chesterfield, North East Derbyshire, and the outskirts of South Yorkshire and Nottinghamshire.

Becca Gregory, Fundraising Manager at Blythe House Hospicecare and Helen’s Trust, said: “We are incredibly grateful to the whole team at BRM for supporting the hospice once again this year.

“Not only have we been working with the firm for our Wills month for many years, BRM has been a long-term supporter of ours since 2017.

“We are so grateful for all of their support and generosity. The money raised will go towards providing patients with care in their own homes and helping to make them and their families as comfortable as possible.”

Rob Woodhead, Executive Director of Wills and Probate at BRM Solicitors, said: “It is a great pleasure to have hosted yet another successful Wills Month in support of Blythe House and Helen’s Trust.

“We’re delighted that we’ve successfully raised almost £55,000 for the charity. These funds will play a crucial role in supporting the organisation as it continues to deliver essential services to the people of our communities.

“Creating a Will not only grants peace of mind but also ensures that your financial legacy is entrusted to those you care about.”

BRM Solicitors, Hopkinson Waste Management, Central Technology, Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice and Chesterfield College support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Chesterfield Champions kickstart 2024 with new hires and promotions

Several businesses in Chesterfield, part of the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions, have started the year with positivity, by announcing new hires and promotions.

Find out which firms have been announcing growth in the town by reading our roundup below:

Banner Jones welcomes six colleagues onto trainee scheme

Banner Jones trainees

With 3 of its current trainee Solicitors due to qualify this month, regional law firm Banner Jones has welcomed six more colleagues from across its Chesterfield, Sheffield and Mansfield offices onto its Trainee Scheme.

Reflective of the firm’s ongoing commitment to investing in its staff, all of the candidates have completed their LPC and are now undertaking their Period of Recognised Training, following which they will be fully qualified solicitors.

Over the period of their training they will gain an understanding of several areas of law, spending a period of time in a contentious area of law, a non-contentious area of law and the Company’s compliance department.

Banner Jones’ Trainee Scheme, which is fully funded by the firm, aims to provide an opportunity for those with a desire and interest to learn new skills to further their careers, whilst also training to achieve a recognised legal qualification.

In addition to providing support to this cohort of trainees, the firm is also supporting Tim Barley in his Level 7 Solicitor Apprenticeship, Claudia Risorto, who joined Banner Jones in September, and is undertaking her Law Degree Apprenticeship, and various other members of staff to undertake CILEx and Licensed Conveyancing qualifications.

Commenting on the announcement Banner Jones’ CEO, Simon Wright, said: “We’re delighted to be training such a large number of colleagues to qualify as Solicitors, in addition to providing support to those undergoing various other qualifications.

“It is important to us that all of our staff enjoy working for Banner Jones, and that they have every possible opportunity to further their careers during their time with us.

“Our trainees and apprentices are an integral part of our future, and we wish them every success moving forward with their studies.”

Training Principal, Katie Ash, added: “With recruitment so difficult at the moment, and having always sought to support our employees’ development and ambitions, the decision to extend our training programme to nurture even more of our own talent was a natural one.”

Banner Jones is an award-winning regional law firm which boasts specialist departments across the full spectrum of legal services, including family law, employment law, conveyancing, dispute resolution, company formation, business sales and purchases, commercial agreements, commercial property, debt recovery and personal injury claims.

BRM bolsters dispute resolution team with four key appointments  

BRM Dispute Resolution team 2023

Chesterfield and Sheffield-based law firm, BRM is delighted to announce the appointment of Director Simon Lockley, alongside Kirsty Coggin as Senior Associate, Annabel Denby Hollis as Senior Solicitor and Adam Mayer as Chartered Legal Executive, to the firm’s Dispute Resolution team.

The appointments will position BRM with the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.

Simon joins BRM with more than 30 years litigation experience with his most recent role being Head of the Sheffield Office at Lupton Fawcett.

Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam are joining Simon in the move after a combined 15 years with Lupton Fawcett and have started at the firm this week. Annabel will join BRM on 15 January 2024.

Simon is regularly instructed by both corporate and individual clients in high-value litigation and specialises in company and shareholder disputes, complex contractual claims and professional negligence.

Simon also has extensive experience in claims against employees and directors for breach of contract/duty, civil fraud and insolvency litigation.

Listed as a key individual in his field in the Legal 500 UK, Simon is regarded as ‘highly rated by clients’ and ‘technically superb’.

Simon said: “BRM is an ambitious, modern and forward-thinking firm and I am delighted to be joining its Dispute Resolution team as a Director.

“The firm is business-focussed and has a fantastic reputation in Sheffield and Chesterfield as well as the wider city region”.

“BRM is making a real statement and both my team, and I are looking forward to being part of the firm’s growth in Sheffield and its ambitions for the future.”

Rob Cooke, Head of Dispute Resolution and Executive Director at BRM, said: “We’re extremely pleased to welcome Simon, Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam to the Dispute Resolution team here at BRM.

“As we have previously worked together, I know first-hand the fantastic reputation Simon has both in the city and the profession and the positive difference he will make to our team.

“Kirsty, Annabel, and Adam will bring their collective experience to the team and will position us as the largest Dispute Resolution team in the region.”

Kirsty joins the firm as Senior Associate and was recently rated as a ‘Key Lawyer’ in the Legal 500.

She said: “BRM is dynamic and forward looking. I am thrilled to bring my experience to the firm and be part of its growth and exciting vision for the future.”

New Director joins UKATA

UKATA Banner trade show

UKATA has announced the appointment of Ali Rees (Evans) to the Board of Directors from 1st November 2023.

The Board of Directors comprises of elected individuals from the membership of the association, and whose function is to provide strategic direction and governance.

UKATA Directors have a responsibility to understand the environment in which the association is operating and to lead the association in fulfilling its purpose as effectively as possible with the resources available.

Ali’s role as a learning and development professional for the last 22 years has given her significant insight and experience in ensuring all learning interventions are effective and provide valuable return on investment. Since working in local authority, Ali has been delivering asbestos training and creating a pool of resources to assist with duty holder responsibilities for a portfolio of 600 premises and 100 housing stock.

As director, Ali will use her skills in business, HR, organisational development, and performance management to support UKATA to move forward and maintain its status as a leading trade association.

Speaking of the new appointment, UKATA Chief Operating Officer, Craig Evans said “Following our board meeting in October 2023, the board of directors have unanimously agreed to co-opt Ali Rees (Evans) from Caerphilly County Borough Council as a non-licensed director of UKATA. Ali has always been very supportive of UKATA, and we very much look forward to working with her more closely”.

Ali commented “I’d like to thank UKATA for giving me this opportunity. I am very much looking forward to working with them in our collective aim of ensuring effective management of asbestos in the UK through positive training solutions”.

BHP strengthens its Charities team with two senior promotions

Nicola Adams BHP Charities team

BHP, one of the largest independent accountancy firms in the North of England, has announced two key promotions within its Charities team.

Neil Baldwin, from the firm’s Cleckheaton office, and Nicola Adams, who is based within its Chesterfield office, have both been promoted to Director RI (Responsible Individual), meaning they are able to sign off client audits on behalf of the firm.

Nicola joined the firm straight out of school in 2007, and became a Chartered Accountant in 2012, having completed her AAT qualification. Nicola was previously on the audit committee of Chesterfield College and has been a trustee of Derwent Rural Counselling Service for over 10 years, including being Chair from 2016 to 2018.

Jane Marshall DL, BHP Partner and Head of Charities and Not for Profit, said: “At BHP, we’re committed to supporting and developing the skills of our people for the long term. To see Neil and Nicola, who both joined the business at the start of their careers, take the next step on their journey is fantastic and a testament to their hard work on behalf of our charity clients.

“I look forward to continuing to work with them to support our clients as we navigate the continuing challenging economic environment.”

Nicola said: “I am extremely proud to have achieved this promotion at BHP. A Responsible Individual role was always something I personally wanted to achieve in my career. BHP has given me the support and opportunity to do this, and I am looking forward to taking on new responsibilities and putting pen to paper on audit reports.”

Six new board members appointed by East Midlands Chamber

Five of the new board members, from left - George Oliver, Martin Barnett, Sandra Wiggins, Anjuu Trevedi and Maz Patel

Stuart Dawkins will remain as president of East Midlands Chamber for another year after the business representation group held its annual general meeting (AGM) in December.

The former FTSE 100 bank communications director continues in the honorary role after Dawn Whitemore, who was due to succeed him for 2024, chose to defer her year as president until it is compatible with her position as chief executive of SMB College Group.

Craig Brothers, owner of Nottinghamshire-based digital transformation consultancy Six Degrees Associates, was inaugurated as vice-president, with Dawn now set to succeed him as president at the AGM in 2025.

Six individuals were also elected to the Board of Directors, a group of 17 experienced business leaders representing different fields and sectors who provide strategic direction to the senior leadership team in driving forward the chamber of commerce for Derbyshire, Leicestershire and Nottinghamshire.

The new board members are:

  • Martin Barnett, chair of TTK Confectionery (trading as The Treat Kitchen)
  • George Oliver, owner of 1284
  • Maz Patel, managing director of Scope Construction
  • Amit Sonpal, director of commercial banking at Barclays Bank
  • Anjuu Trevedi MBE, head of knowledge exchange and innovation at De Montfort University and senior partnerships development manager at Twycross Zoo
  • Sandra Wiggins, manufacturing mentor and leadership coach at Authentically Balanced.

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

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Workpays outlines steps to become a leading training provider in sustainability

Chesterfield training provider, Workpays has outlined the steps it has taken to be a leading training provider for sustainability.

The company has achieved Bronze Level accreditation as a Carbon Literate Organisation with its Managing Director and Director of Excellence, who have led the drive, receiving CLO accreditation. Throughout 2024, the company will roll this out to all staff through its internal Workpays Academy.

Managing Director, Alex Glasner commented: “We want to train a generation of people into careers focussed on sustainability. Therefore, we’re delighted to become the nation’s first training provider not only to offer several specialised green-focused courses, but also to embed green skills into each one of our courses. All Workpays’ courses consist of units such as Environmental Awareness, Domestic Energy Efficiency, and Sustainability.”

The organisation has made sector-specific modules to ensure learners can better understand the importance of sustainability within their area of study and interest, ranging from vocational awards and certificates to green-themed sessions for English, ESOL, and Digital Skills, giving a better understanding of how the sector can be improved and where changing legislation may affect learners’ future careers.

All of Workpays’ courses include a wide range of fusion skills (12 skills identified to be fundamental to the future world of work from research and studies done by NESTA and presented within the Education for Sustainable Development Toolkit supported by the Education and Training Foundation). Every course provides important future-proof skills such as problem-solving, higher-level analysis, and evaluation.

These awards and certificates are fully funded and Workpays has formed a newly-created green progression pathway that learners and apprentices can move through to gain the qualifications they need to find a green career or to gain a better understanding of how to be a sustainable leader.

The Sustainable Leader apprenticeship pathway has been designed to relate sustainability to standards such as Team Leader, Operations Manager, and Improvement Technician to help apprentices understand how to improve their workplace and meet the SDGs, giving real-life examples and experience.

Full green courses include:

  • Entry Level 3, Level 1, and Level 2 Awards in Progression
  • Entry Level 3 Certificate in Progression
  • Entry Level 3 and Level 1 Award in Mental Wellbeing
  • Level 1 and Level 2 Awards in Personal Wellbeing

Alex added: “Workpays is committed to being a specialist in green courses, sustainability, and leading the way in providing high-quality inclusive education for all. We have been asked to join and represent training providers within the FE sector in several forums and groups such as #SustainFE helping other institutions and organisations map and create relatable curriculum content for sustainability. Workpays will continue to build on this in the new year.”

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

eco busines green recycle suatinability

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