Forgemasters adds new Non-exec Director to its Board
Norman Bone has been appointed as Non-executive Director to the Board of Sheffield Forgemasters with immediate effect.
He is an experienced CEO and Chair with a proven track record in delivering financial results, and was Chair of aerospace giant Leonardo UK Ltd, where he was responsible for all three UK divisions; electronics, helicopters, and security.
With a wealth of experience in engagement with UK Government, MOD and UK Security agencies, Norman will support the Board in its recapitalisation programme to support UK defence programmes.
His background also includes implementation of culture change and new working practices within manufacturing operations, and he brings experience from the top tier of management at BAE Systems and global drinks company, Diageo.
The appointment will see Janice Munday, who has been with the business since 2016, step down.
Illegally dumping waste to protect his fishing lakes lands man with £9,500 fine and suspended sentence
Phillip Taylor of Scorton, near Richmond, has been given a 12-week suspended sentence and ordered to pay £9,500 for illegally dumping 2,400 tonnes of building site waste to protect his fishing lakes from flooding.
Taylor, 70, must also remove the waste, which had been taken from housing developments and dumped on Catterick Complex beside the River Swale to form unauthorised flood defences to protect his commercial fishing lakes.
The illegal dumping of excavation waste at the Catterick Complex could displace or deflect flood water elsewhere, increasing flood risk. Taylor refused to remove the waste when directed by the EA.
Paul Glasby, the Environment Agency’s investigating officer, said: “Due to climate change flooding is becoming more frequent and severe and it’s important that landowners and businesses are aware of the legal restrictions for working in or near main rivers.
“Before doing so they must first gain authorisation from the EA so we can ensure that changes do not increase flood risk to others or damage the environment.
“Taylor showed a blatant disregard for the law and the community around him. Building unauthorised flood defences or conducting unauthorised works in a flood plain is a serious criminal offence and we are determined to take action to protect flood prone communities and the environment.”
Deputy District Judge Garland said Taylor had been given ‘repeated warnings’ and told him: “It’s clear that there was a deliberate disregard for the rules in the way you went about your business, creating a potential risk.” The company which transported the waste to the Catterick Complex, Greenford Haulage & Aggregates Ltd, has previously been subject to an Enforcement Undertaking, donating £30,000 to Yorkshire Dales Rivers Trust.Building a greener workspace with sustainable office practices in 2024
In the pursuit of a Net Zero future, organisations across the UK are striving to adopt sustainable practices, and businesses across Greater Lincolnshire and Rutland are no exception. As part of its commitment to supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) in the region, Business Lincolnshire is taking proactive steps to guide businesses in creating environmentally friendly workspace through its Low Carbon Lincolnshire initiative.
Understanding the challenge
The UK’s ambitious target of achieving Net Zero carbon emissions by 2050 has prompted many businesses to expedite their sustainability goals, with some aiming for Net Zero as early as 2030.
Businesses today face a myriad of challenges when it comes to transitioning to greener workspaces. From the complexity of implementing sustainable technologies to the financial considerations involved, the path to a more environmentally friendly office can seem daunting. However, recognising the urgency of addressing climate change and the positive impact sustainable practices can have on both the environment and the bottom line, businesses are actively seeking ways to overcome these challenges.
How can businesses move towards greener workspaces?
1. Energy Efficiency is Key. Implementing energy-efficient technologies and practices can significantly reduce a workspace’s carbon footprint. This includes using LED lighting, optimising heating and cooling systems, and incorporating smart energy management tools to monitor and control consumption.
2. Sustainable Office Design. Redesigning office spaces with sustainability in mind involves choosing eco-friendly materials, maximising natural light, and creating open, collaborative environments that encourage energy efficiency and employee well-being.
3. Waste Reduction and Recycling Programmes. Establishing effective waste reduction strategies and implementing robust recycling programmes can drastically minimise the environmental impact of daily operations.
4. Employee Engagement and Education. Creating a culture of sustainability among employees is crucial. Providing education on eco-friendly practices, encouraging energy conservation, and involving employees in the decision-making process can lead to lasting change.
5. Green Procurement. Choosing suppliers and partners who share a commitment to sustainability can extend the positive impact of a business’s green initiatives throughout its supply chain.
While these tips provide a foundation for building greener workspaces, the journey to sustainability often requires tailored guidance and support. This is where initiatives like Business Lincolnshire’s Low Carbon Lincolnshire programme come into play.
Low Carbon Lincolnshire
Recognising that SMEs play a vital role in the drive towards Net Zero, constituting 99% of the UK’s enterprises and employing 60% of the workforce, Business Lincolnshire can help SMEs in our region to navigate this transition.
Through a series of fully funded workshops and supporting materials, the Low Carbon Lincolnshire programme addresses key areas such as Net Zero, Decarbonisation, Energy Management, and Sustainable Supply Chains. Delivered by the sustainable business support team at PECT, working on behalf of Business Lincolnshire and which already collaborates with over 300 organisations on sustainability and decarbonisation projects, these workshops offer a unique blend of expertise and practical insights.
By leveraging the expertise of organisations like PECT, participating businesses gain access to proven strategies and hands-on assistance, making the transition to a more sustainable office environment both achievable and impactful. This not only enhances business practices but also contributes significantly to the broader vision of a Net Zero economy by 2050.
In collaboration with Business Lincolnshire, SMEs can lead the way in sustainable office practices, turning challenges into opportunities and collectively forging a path toward a more environmentally conscious future.
To find out more about Low Carbon Lincolnshire, visit https://www.businesslincolnshire.com/start-and-grow-my-business/grant-and-support-finder/business-lincolnshire-low-carbon-lincolnshire/
Batley school sold to children’s services provider
Specialist business property adviser, Christie & Co, has sold Dale House Independent School & Nursery in Batley, West Yorkshire.
Established by Andrew and Sarah Fletcher in 1999, Dale House is an independent Prep School with a capacity for up to 120 students aged two to 11 years. It occupies a former Edwardian Sunday School that was originally built for the St. John’s Church congregation in 1907 and extended in 2002.
Set within a residential area of Batley, West Yorkshire, the property is in a good location, less than five miles from the M62. Dale House was ranked by the Sunday Times as one of the top 50 Preparatory Schools in England in 2020.
Having battled with a serious illness, Andrew and Sarah decided it was time for Andrew to step back from the bursar’s role and for Sarah to retire to help look after him after having dedicated over 24 years of service to the local community. They did not have time to engage in a lengthy and public sale offering so approached Christie & Co for assistance.
Following a highly confidential sales process with Vicky Marsland at Christie & Co, a wide range of interested parties were engaged. Despite this being a highly regarded and profitable independent school, the majority of interest came from specialist education providers and a sale has now been agreed to Polaris Community, one of the UK’s leading communities of children’s services providers.
Andrew and Sarah Fletcher, former owners of Dale House, said: “It was very sad to see such a lovely and successful school close, but we are delighted that it will remain as a school, providing desperately needed specialist services for the children in Kirklees.”
Loren Cahill, Project Manager for Polaris Community, said: “We’re thrilled with the acquisition of Dale House School in Batley. With this remarkable space, we are poised to provide the best outcomes for young people, offering a nurturing, supportive and empowering environment to learn, grow, and thrive.
“We cannot wait to open the doors to this School and witness the positive impact we will undoubtedly make in the lives of these promising young individuals.”
Vicky Marsland, Associate Director – Childcare & Education at Christie & Co, said: “I was very excited to take on this project when I originally met Andrew and Sarah. From the outset, the primary concern was to sell the school as a going concern but, after exhausting all avenues, the highest level of interest came from specialist education and care providers.
“It was extremely difficult for Andrew and Sarah to decide to sell with vacant possession but, ultimately, they had to make a decision that allowed them to move on to the next chapter of their lives. It’s been a pleasure working with them and I wish them both a very well-deserved retirement, being able to spend more time with their family and friends.
“Whilst there are a select number of large independent school providers in the UK that remain the subject of strong investment, unfortunately, we have seen those smaller schools struggling to compete when the time comes to sell and retire.
“As the SEND schools sector continues to thrive due to the growing demand for suitable settings that support the needs of children who are unable to access mainstream education, the demand for vacant possessions on independent schools has increased.”
Dale House Independent School & Nursery was sold for an undisclosed price.
Grants of up to £75k to be made available to get foreign recognition for UK professionals
More UK professionals will be able to provide their services around the world thanks to new government funding to help get UK qualifications recognised overseas.
Grants of up to £75,000 will be awarded to UK regulators and professional bodies as part of the Recognition Arrangements Grant programme. The fund can help them strike deals with counterparts around the world to help make it easier, quicker and cheaper for UK professionals to have their qualifications recognised overseas.
The UK is the world’s second-biggest exporter of services in the world – behind only the US – and the nation’s services exports are currently at a record high.
However, qualifying as an architect, accountant or lawyer in the UK doesn’t generally qualify professionals to practise abroad which means UK companies miss out on opportunities internationally. The Government is therefore pledging £500,000 to help facilitate agreements which can reduce the need for professionals to gain additional qualifications in foreign countries or go through potentially costly and burdensome bureaucracy.
Minister for Trade Policy Greg Hands said: “Obtaining professional qualifications in foreign countries can be expensive and slow for professionals like lawyers and accountants who want to export their world-class services overseas.
“Part of the answer is to secure mutual recognition agreements between the UK and other countries, to acknowledge each other’s professional qualifications.
“This new round of funding will help open new doors for UK-qualified professionals, allowing them and their firms to focus on winning contracts, exporting their expertise abroad and growing their businesses.”
This third round of funding follows previous successful rounds which led to:- Agreements between the UK’s Financial Reporting Council and their New Zealand and Swiss counterparts for auditors, allowing UK audit firms to sell their services more easily in those countries.
- Work towards arrangements in sectors like legal services, accountancy and architecture with a range of jurisdictions such as Morocco, Hong Kong, and India.
New head of Aon’s Leeds and Sheffield offices
Aon plc, a professional services firm, has named Paul Winrow as head of office for Leeds and Sheffield.
Paul succeeds Karen Wilczek, who has retired following a career of over 37 years with Aon. In his new role, Paul assumes overall responsibility for the firm’s Leeds Embankment and Sheffield offices, and the 36-strong Corporate Commercial Risk Solutions team.
This expands Paul’s current role as the head of office of the firm’s Leicester Corporate Commercial Risk Solutions office.
Drawing on 22 years’ industry experience, Paul will implement the national and regional strategy, develop colleagues, and drive a positive and supportive culture to ensure clients receive the highest level of service to achieve their goals.
Paul joined Aon in 2016 as client director overseeing a portfolio of clients. Over time, his remit expanded to include managing colleagues and joining the Leeds and Sheffield office management teams, before being promoted to head of office for Leicester in October 2022. Prior to joining Aon, he held roles with Willis Towers Watson and Marsh.
Paul Winrow said: “I am proud to have been appointed head of Aon’s Leeds and Sheffield offices at such an exciting time for the firm and following a busy and successful 2023.
“I am surrounded by a talented and knowledgeable team, and I’m looking forward to developing colleagues to ensure that they can continue to support our extensive roster of clients with their commercial insurance needs.
“It has always been my ambition to progress into a leadership role and Aon has provided me with the opportunity to achieve this goal. I am really looking forward to building on all Karen has achieved and working with my colleagues and clients across Leeds and Sheffield.”
New President for Sheffield Chamber of Commerce
Sheffield businessman and communications specialist Alexis Krachai has been appointed as Sheffield Chamber of Commerce’s newest Chamber President.
Alexis brings a wealth of knowledge and experience to the role, as both Managing Director of specialist communications agency Counter Context, and a leading figure in the region’s business community.
Alexis’ 36-strong agency, which is headquartered in Sheffield, provides consultancy, public affairs and communications services to government and some of the UK’s most transformative property, energy and infrastructure companies.
He is also well-known across the city as a strong advocate for private sector leadership and driving change across the economy.
Alexis is a Non-Executive Director on the Chamber’s board. He led the organisation during the pandemic as Co-Interim Chief Executive, alongside the now permanent Chief Executive Louisa Harrison-Walker.
Alexis continues to fly the flag for Sheffield, promoting the city and shaping an agenda to make Sheffield the best place in the UK to start and grow a successful and sustainable business.
Between 2017 and 2021, Alexis led on the set up of the Sheffield Property Association (S-PA), the only formally constituted property association outside of London.
In 2019, he played a central role in the formation of the Sheffield Culture Collective which was convened through the S-PA’s leadership to drive investment in culture across the city and create the conditions for Sheffield to attract more government funding for culture. During the pandemic, he also co-chaired Sheffield’s Covid-19 Business Recovery Group which formulated the first economic (recovery) plan approved by Sheffield City Council in over a decade. Most recently, he has worked with colleagues across the city to oversee a process formulating a series of Sheffield City Goals.
Alexis took over from the outgoing President Karen Mosley, Managing Director of HLM Architects, at the Chamber’s AGM this week. The AGM took place at Henry Boot PLC’s new office in Isaacs Building, part of the Heart of the City development.
At this event, Alexis outlined his plans for his upcoming two-year term, with a focus on supporting businesses and spearheading cultural investment in Sheffield.
His priorities include representing Chamber members when they need support and a strong voice to advocate for their interests with local and central government. He will continue to bring constructive challenge to drive change in the city economy and help deliver wider prosperity.
In his term, Alexis will be focussing his efforts on advocating that Sheffield has a long-term plan to retain and attract talented people by driving greater investment into culture across the city.
Alexis Krachai, new Chamber President, said: “I am honoured to take on the responsibility of being President of the Chamber and representing our members. Sheffield has momentum but, like many cities, it must wrestle with many challenges that will impact on businesses and the wider economy over the coming years.
“I am naturally optimistic and upbeat. Together there is nothing we cannot achieve in Sheffield, but we must not dodge the difficult conversations about how to build greater strength and resilience in our economy. Without a stronger economy we cannot address the inequality in the city or face the mounting challenges like energy and food price rises and the impacts of extreme weather.
“My focus on driving investment in culture stems from so many conversations over the years – culture will be the answer to many of Sheffield’s questions. Investment in culture is what brings people together and makes for an amazing place to live and work. Investment in culture is all about celebrating diverse communities and ensuring our city and district centres are always buzzing. Over time, a buzzing city creates more jobs, more businesses and wider prosperity.
“Sheffield does not get enough funding for culture from government. The solution to that starts with us locally. I will be working hard to make the case that local businesses have such an important role to play by investing in culture and making Sheffield one of the most exciting and interesting places to be 24 hours a day, 365 days a year.
“There are many challenges across the UK and the wider world but Sheffield has momentum. For me the Presidency is all about having a positive impact and working with others in the business community to help build on that momentum, whether it involves lobbying for our business community, grasping opportunities, or asking the difficult questions.”
Kirklees Council’s Cabinet approves sale of land for housing
Kirklees Council’s Cabinet has just approved the strategic sale of land in Almondbury for housing development.
The land, on Fenay Lane, could potentially deliver around 160 new homes. Kirklees Council identified it as part of its housing growth strategy, which was approved by Cabinet in November last year.
By strategically choosing a housing provider to sell this land to, a well-resourced development partner will be able to develop these new homes on Fenay Lane – helping the council address the national housing shortage without ongoing investment from it as a council.
Now that Cabinet has approved the sale, the council will choose a housing provider to sell the land to.
It will choose this provider based on their priorities, which Kirklees Council wants to closely align with its own – creating as many new affordable homes as possible, and making sure all new housing is energy efficient.
Before the land is sold, this provider will also be approved by Homes England.
Councillor Graham Turner, Cabinet Member for Finance & Regeneration, says: “Across Kirklees, we’re aiming to create well over 2,000 new homes by 2030.
“Part of achieving this goal is strategically selling portions of land to trusted developers who can bring this to fruition, without ongoing financial input from us as a council. Throughout these decisions, we always work on the basis that our development partners should share our values and have the best interests of local people and communities at heart.
“By working with trusted partners and utilising our own land, we can ensure that the right mix of housing is delivered to meet the needs of our residents. This new development should bring around 160 new quality homes to the beautiful village of Almondbury – piece by piece helping us address the current shortage of housing, not just locally but nationally.”
CEO “pleased” with 2023 trading at Team17
Team17 Group’s new CEO is “pleased” with how 2023 trading closed, finishing the year with positive momentum across the games label’s portfolio.
In a trading update for the twelve months ended 31 December 2023, the Yorkshire-based business noted that all parts of the Group performed well over the key Black Friday and festive trading periods.
As a result, management continues to expect FY 2023 adjusted EBITDA to be at least £28.5m.
Steve Bell, CEO of Team17, said: “Having joined the business in September 2023, I am delighted to now formally take over as Group CEO, having spent the last four months fully immersing myself across the Group, with our people, portfolio of games and developers.
“I am pleased with how FY 2023 trading closed, finishing the year with positive momentum across the portfolio. I am extremely excited about the prospects for the Group in 2024 and beyond.”
Six-figure investment helps Barnsley firm go green
Barnsley firm Andel Ltd has put environmental sustainability high on the agenda after making a significant investment to make its operations greener.
The Dodworth-headquartered firm has secured a second round of financial backing from NPIF – FW Capital Debt Finance, which is managed by FW Capital and is part of the Northern Powerhouse Investment. The six-figure investment is supporting Andel’s growth strategy which includes its journey to net zero.
It has introduced several green initiatives, including replacing its fleet of vehicles with electric cars, installing EV chargers at its head office for all staff, reducing its fossil fuel derived gas and electricity usage by 100%, and creating a wildflower meadow at its head office.
Founded in 1992, Andel has steadily grown to become one of the global market leaders in the design, development and application of specialist leak detection, water sustainability, flood defence and environmental protection systems. Based in Barnsley, Andel has operatives throughout the UK and subsidiaries in The Netherlands and Romania.
Mark Harris, commercial director at Andel, said: “In 2020 we made a pledge to become Net Zero by 2025 and we’re well on our way to achieving this.
“Andel has gained an enviable reputation in our field for innovation and cutting-edge research and development. We’d like to compliment this by showing how important environmental sustainability is to us and do what we can to reduce energy consumption and waste.
“Throughout our journey we have been supported by Lindsey McMenamin and the team at FW Capital who have understood our ambitions and provided funding to help with the growth of the business. Sustainability is a key part of Andel, but with it comes short-term challenges and costs.
“The support from FW Capital has helped enormously, giving us a degree of financial flexibility, and allowing us to focus our efforts on future proving the business.”
Lindsey McMenamin, portfolio manager at FW Capital, added: “Andel has made some important and impressive changes to their business. They have demonstrated a strong environmental commitment and I’m pleased to support them on their journey to becoming net zero.
“Being able to work with businesses like Andel who are championing green operations is extremely rewarding and is aligned with NPIF and FW Capital’s ongoing commitment to investment in sustainable businesses in the regions it operates.
“Their efforts have also been recognised recently at the Barnsley and Rotherham Business Awards 2023 where they won the Sustainability Award.”
