Monthly Archives: June 2024

Wales News

Railway reaping the benefits of knowledge and skills transfer

The Ffestiniog & Welsh Highland Railways (FfWHR) is reaping the benefits of knowledge and skills transfer between its most senior volunteers and youngest employees.

Take Bob Smith, 81, an experienced pattern maker and former apprentice Adam Livingstone, now 27, for example.

The railway welcomed Bob to its Boston Lodge Works in Porthmadog as a volunteer in his early 70s after a career in engineering with Rover Cars in Leicester. He had retired to Penrhydeudraeth, with his wife, Lesley but word of his skillset soon reached the nearby FfWHR.

Because heavy work was becoming a challenge, Bob was paired with Adam who had just completed an apprenticeship in woodwork and was employed in the Carriage Works.

“When we began working together, Adam could see I knew my stuff and we got on like a house on fire,” explained Bob, who was 76 when he began volunteering. “We didn’t have a cross word in our years working together and I was able to pass on my skills, too. 

“Pattern making involves wood turning and sand casting to make a pattern to go to the foundry to turn out engineering parts. There was a lot for Adam to get his head around, like making patterns in contraction and taper, getting the angles right!”

Adam now runs his own business, Livingston Joinery, and is a contractor to FfWHR. “I had completed my apprenticeship and then went on to learn pattern making from Bob, skills I now use in my business.

“We already had the basics of hand tooling from the FfWHR apprenticeship and the concept of pattern making came when Bob joined as a volunteer. Having different generations working together is something the FfWHR does well.

“I am always surprised by the number of volunteers that come in later in life who, like Bob, want to carry on teaching people and passing on their skills as well as learning themselves.

“Without the railway to keep skills alive, trades like bench joinery will be lost with most people now working on site, not on traditional bench work.”

Bob said he is happy to retire now and enjoys relaxing in Spooners at the FfWHR Harbour Station. After finishing his apprenticeship at 21 and making patterns until April 2023, he clocked up over 50 years in the trade.

His volunteering is a legacy contribution to the skills at the world leading Boston Lodge Works. 

Caption: Adam Kingston and Bob Smith reminisce about making a complex pattern for a Kerr Stuart loco fuel pump.

Health

Exclusive research – Workplace Flu Vaccination could save companies £87 per employee annually

Doctorcall, the longest-standing provider of private flu vaccinations in the UK, has released exclusive research outlining potential savings for companies through workplace vaccination programmes. Research indicates that providing flu vaccinations in the workplace can save companies £87 per employee each year, more than offsetting the cost of the vaccination.

Additional benefits include reduced absenteeism and increased employee satisfaction.

Flu Vaccination Savings Calculation:

According to statistics from the Office for National Statistics (ONS), the average worker loses 5.7 workdays per year due to illness. Minor illnesses such as coughs, colds, flu, and gastrointestinal issues account for 29.3% of these lost days, equating to 1.67 days lost per year per employee. With flu responsible for roughly 20% of minor illness cases, this results in approximately 0.33 days lost per worker annually due to flu.

The average cost of a day of absence in the private sector is £522. Therefore, the cost of flu-related absenteeism is estimated at £174 per employee per year. Considering the flu vaccine’s effectiveness, which ranges from 40-60%, a 50% effectiveness rate translates to an average saving of £87 per employee annually through workplace flu vaccination.

Pneumonia:

Pneumonia cases, which often begin with flu, result in an average of 14 days of sick leave per occurrence, costing businesses £7,308 per case. Pneumonia not only causes significant absenteeism but also poses severe health risks with a high mortality rate.

Offering flu vaccinations to key workers can also mitigate this risk, as influenza can often lead to pneumonia. COVID vaccinations are also offered by Doctorcall, who delivered the first private COVID corporate vaccine clinic in the UK.

Benefits of Workplace Vaccination

·  Reduced Absenteeism: Decreasing the number of sick days taken due to flu and pneumonia, particularly unplanned absenteeism which is extremely disruptive

·  Cost Savings: Significant savings on the costs associated with employee sick leave.

·  Employee Satisfaction: Employees appreciate the convenience and health benefits of receiving vaccinations at work, enhancing overall workplace morale and productivity.

“Implementing a workplace vaccination program is a cost-effective strategy that benefits both employers and employees,” said Dr Charles Levinson, Doctorcall Medical Director “Our goal is to help companies maintain a healthy workforce while simultaneously reducing the heavy financial impact of illness-related unplanned absenteeism.”

“These findings demonstrate the high value provided by a workplace flu vaccination programme – more and more companies are using our service, and these findings show that they are making a sound investment which benefits both the company, and the employee.”

https://doctorcall.co.uk/archives/news/workplace-flu-vaccination-could-save-companies-87-per-employee-annually

 

Business, Business Advice, Engineering, Manufacturing

Cyclica: The Smart Way to Equip Your Industry

Investing in equipment and machinery to start or expand an industry usually involves considerable capital management. Therefore, when purchasing machinery, you must be careful to prevent your investment from becoming a cost. Regardless of the type of industry you work in, you have two options to consider: you can buy new or used equipment. In both cases, you will get ups and downs. However, the difference in the investment between them is considerable.

If you decide to buy used equipment, You might want to prepare beforehand to avoid wasting your money. That way, you can save yourself a lot of headaches, time, and money.

  • Start by reviewing the conditions of the equipment you want to buy, guarantees, and estimated lifespan. Keep in mind that, to the extent possible, it is best to see it working. However, a meticulous system of inspections can also work. That way, you will see the exact status of the machine. A trustworthy company will always support you through a sales representative with experience. They will provide appropriate guidance through the process and buy what you need.
  • Check reviews about the type of machinery you are considering purchasing. You can find valuable information about the useful life and maintenance costs. Also, about the possibilities of obtaining spare parts and their possible obsolescence.
  • Consider aspects such as payment and transportation facilities offered by the supplier. Some provide financing and manage agreements with transportation companies that they trust. With their help, you can ensure your equipment travels in adequate and safe conditions. In addition, they usually have preferential prices for referred clients.
  • The experience and track record of the supplier are vital in this case. In addition, it must have a good reputation and manage competitive prices, guaranteeing after-sales service.

Where is it best to purchase used machinery appropriate for your business?

You can enjoy numerous advantages of buying used machinery besides the financial benefits. Thus, you need to consider different things to make the most convenient decision for your business. And the first consideration that you must comply with is inherent to the supplier. You want someone you can trust. Aim for a supplier with experience in the business and an established reputation in the sector. This is essential, as it guarantees that you are putting your capital to good use.

And precisely, these are some characteristics for which Cyclica stands out. We are talking about the most reliable portal on the market regarding the acquisition of machinery, industrial equipment, and reconditioned spare parts. There you will find what you need for your industry, at the best price and of excellent quality. They have an inventory that is constantly being renewed. It includes more than 600 pieces of equipment from recognized brands and a complete stock of spare parts of more than 10,000 units.

Thanks to its innovative way of conceiving the business of buying and selling used machinery, at Cyclica we all win. Because they not only focus on the commercial aspect, they are also oriented towards caring for the environment. By supporting the sustainable development of the industry, by extending the useful life of any equipment, they reduce waste that is difficult to degrade. In addition, they reduce processes associated with high energy consumption and minimize the use of raw materials and polluting inputs.

 

The reasons why purchasing used machinery is a good alternative

There are several reasons why purchasing used machinery for your business is a good option. That is, as long as you follow the tips mentioned previously, especially going to a reliable supplier.

Less investment

In this case, the best benefit is usually the lower capital requirement. Nowadays, you can get perfectly refurbished equipment with a long life. The best part is that you can grab some offers from recognized brands that have received proper maintenance and have spare parts available. This will help you save a lot of money. That equipment will cost a fraction of what it would cost to buy it new. This way, you can redirect the remaining capital to cover other requirements in your business.

 

Machinery with immediate availability

This is another of the great advantages of purchasing used machinery. You will not have to wait for the distributor to order the machine you need.  This equipment is now available and in perfect condition to start operating. In addition, the previous owner has already carried out quality control. A responsible supplier will certify its proper functioning.

 

A wide variety of options in brands and equipment

Thanks to technology, it is currently possible to quickly access information on a specific computer. This includes prices and technical characteristics, among other aspects. This way, you can easily carry out a complete market study. Well, a responsible supplier will always have all the information you require about the equipment they offer. This will ensure that you are transparent and trustworthy in your dealings.

Thus, you will have multiple options regarding brands and types of machinery. You will find a whole catalog of options, but always remember to go to a trusted supplier. There, they will give you the advice you need. That way, you can pick the equipment that best suits your requirements and budget.

 

Preparing for the transition

The dizzying spiral of technology quickly makes any equipment obsolete. Therefore, a good plan is to prepare for upcoming transitions to other technologies. Thus, investing in new equipment can be a loss of capital. You want to be ready to face laws that change to limit the operation of modern machinery. Replacing used machinery does not have the same impact as new machinery.

As you can see, buying used machinery has many benefits, as long as you do it with a reliable supplier.

Business, Food & Drink

Hydes invites prospective tenants to become part of the family and share success

Salford-based brewer and pub retailer Hydes has received a glowing endorsement from members of its tenanted estate for its comprehensive support and flexibility. 

The family-owned independent business has been praised by some of its longest standing tenants for the continued support it provides, including minimising rents and price increases.

Hydes, which celebrated its 160th anniversary in 2023, delivered a record turnover of £34.1m last year. The financial success came despite the most challenging economic conditions faced by the hospitality sector in decades.

With its brewery in Media City, Hydes was formed in 1863 and supplies beers to wholesalers, pub companies and other brewers throughout the UK and a pub retailing estate of nearly 50 pubs across the North West of England and North Wales. It currently has 14 tenanted pubs in its estate.

Tenants Mark and Chelly Jones have operated the Stanton House in Chirk, Wrexham since 2001. The popular pub, owned by Hydes, received an extensive refurbishment last year which revitalised the business, helping to boost turnover in 12 months.

The couple, who have worked closely with Hydes to successfully establish The Stanton House as a real community hub, say that investment from Hydes, together with ongoing support and advice, has reinvigorated the pub.

Additional recent investment from Hydes resulted in the pub hosting its first live music and beer festival in May. The festival was a resounding success and is expected to become an annual community event.

Commented Mark Jones: “The support we have received from Hydes, especially over the past five years, has allowed us to fully realise the potential this pub has to offer. We have the freedom to implement our own ideas, from homecooked food to planning events and entertainment, and can rely on Hydes to support us every step of the way. It’s a fantastic example of family-run businesses working very effectively together to deliver outstanding results. We have lots of scope to help shape our own success but we know we can rely on Hydes for their valuable input whenever we need it.”

Christine Cheetham, who has five decades of hospitality experience, has operated The Royal Hotel in Atherton, Greater Manchester since February 2003. She said: “The flexible financial support I’ve received from Hydes has been amazing, at a time when the entire hospitality sector has struggled and many pubs have been forced to close. Payment flexibility, competitive pricing and generous financial support have enabled us to make the pub a success despite challenging conditions including the pandemic, cost of living crisis and all-time high energy prices.”

In addition to providing competitive pricing on products and rent, Hydes supports its tenants in various ways designed to encourage success and boost financial performance. These include, access to extensive free marketing expertise and support materials; negotiated discounts on product ranges from reputable, trusted suppliers; one year’s free membership of the British Institute of Innkeeping; investment in new bar and cellar equipment; improvements of beer gardens and interior and exterior facilities; a dedicated operations manager and regular visits from Hydes’ managing director and head of operations, and preferential rates on Sky Sports & BT Sports amongst many other benefits.

Managing director of Hydes, Adam Mayers commented: “Running a Hydes pub means tenants can become part of a regional brewer that is one of the few still owned and managed as a thriving family business.

“As demonstrated by our longest-standing tenants, running a Hydes pub can be a rewarding and enjoyable way of life. Our experienced brewery support staff give all tenants full personal support and the space to run their own business as they see fit. The fact that some tenants have been operating our pubs successfully for 20 years’ shows that creating and maintaining strong working relationships is key to Hydes.

“We offer the freedom for tenants to run their own business, whilst being on-hand to provide support and expert advice whenever it is required. The best of both worlds is there for the taking: the freedom to realise their own personal vision, with the backing and resources of an award-winning brewer and pub retailer.”

With an existing estate of successfully managed houses across the North West, Hydes has many support departments available to tenants that other pub operators cannot offer.

Adam Mayers added: “We really enjoy building relationships with each of our operators and revel in seeing them achieve their goals. We’ll be there with the right kind of support when it is needed with a bespoke approach, tailored to meet individual needs across every area of the business. No matter what challenges arise, we ensure that someone is always on hand to provide valuable insight and expert advice to support them in maximising their business.”

To find out more about Hydes Brewery visit https://www.hydesbrewery.com/

Retail & E-commerce, Tech, Technology

6 Reasons for Using Custom Magento Themes for Your Store

There are prebuilt Magento themes available to choose from that work well from the start, so looking for a custom-made one may sound like extra work. However, there are good reasons to choose one tailored specifically for your shop over a ready-made option, and we will discuss why in this article.

What are Custom Magento Themes?

The visual layer of a website plays a pivotal role in its overall success, as it is the first thing customers see when they visit your online store. Themes are specifically designed front end templates that are created to match the unique branding and style of your business. Usually made by experienced designers and developers who understand the intricacies of the Magento platform, custom designs can be utilized to improve the functionality of your website.

By investing – money, time, or effort – in a custom theme, you can ensure that your online store stands out from competitors and provides a seamless and visually appealing shopping experience for your customers. In fact, the visual layer is not the only part of a custom theme; it also includes various features and functionalities that may change the way the store operates and how customers interact with it.

From intricately designed and coded designs to customizable themes like the popular Hyvä. Hyvä Theme benefits are vast, and all stores, regardless of their niche, can make use of them to upgrade their online presence and drive more sales.

How to Get a Custom Magento Theme?

There are different ways to acquire a custom Magento theme for your online store. One option is to make one yourself, using tools available online for designing and customizing themes. The other option is to hire a Magento professional to create one for you.

While the first option is considerably less expensive, it also involves a steeper learning curve and may require a long time to polish the theme to perfection. Choosing a Magento development services company to handle the customization can save you time and ensure a professional-looking result. The costs of hiring professional web designers and developers may be higher, but it may be a more worthwhile choice if you do not want to invest the time and effort into learning how to design a theme yourself.

Benefits of Using a Custom-Made Magento Theme

You may wonder what exactly sets a custom-made Magento theme apart from pre-made options. How will you benefit from choosing a custom-made theme? Why is it worth it to invest your time, effort, and money in the visual presentation of your online store?

Magento support services can help you if you encounter any technical difficulties or need assistance installing your theme, so you do not have to worry that you will not be able to sort out any issues that may arise during the process on your own.

Let’s take a look at several reasons why using a custom-made Magento theme can work better for you.

Reason 1: Better Brand Identity

Building a strong brand identity heavily relies on visual recognition. Making your website reflect the overall aesthetic and values of your brand and its history through a custom-made theme can help create a unique but cohesive brand image. Shoppers will find it easier to remember and distinguish your store from the competition if they recognize your aesthetic and branding elements easily.

Reason 2: Enhanced User Experience

A custom-made Magento theme allows you to not only change the visual side of your website but also some of its functionalities. A well-designed Magento theme can affect the user experience, for example, by improving navigation, making the checkout process smoother, and ensuring that the website is responsive on different devices.

Reason 3: Improved SEO Performance

By using a custom Magento theme that makes your site load faster, you can make it more optimized for search engines. Doing so will increase your visibility and bring more organic traffic to your site. In effect, it has the potential to drive more sales, as a higher search engine ranking means more potential future customers will find your store.

Reason 4: Easier Website Management

If you are skilled in web development, creating your own theme would likely be no problem. However, using a custom Magento theme can make website management easier for those who may not have the technical expertise. This can save you time and resources in the long run, allowing you to focus on other aspects of your business.

Reason 5: Higher Conversion Rates

While many factors contribute to conversion rates, having a visually appealing website that functions properly can surely help increase the likelihood of visitors making a purchase and returning for more. Additionally, a custom Magento theme can be optimized for mobile responsiveness and user experience, increasing the chance of conversions from users accessing your site on phones and tablets.

Reason 6: More Integrations

Custom Magento themes can be built to allow for easy integration with more third-party tools and software than the prebuilt ones. Integrating different payment gateways, shipping providers, and marketing tools can greatly enhance your store’s functionality. Properly implemented integrations can also streamline the shopping process, leading to a better customer experience.

Getting the Most Out of Your Custom Magento Theme

A tailored Magento theme provides much more than just aesthetics. Custom designs come with multiple benefits, from easier website management and higher conversion rates to better third-party app integrations. A new, well-designed theme can make it easier to accomplish your goals, whether they are to increase sales or enhance the overall user experience.

Investing in a custom design, regardless of whether you learn how to code it yourself or hire a professional to do it for you, can go a long way in enhancing the functionality and performance of your online store. With the right theme, you can get the most out of Magento, stand out from your competitors on the market, and build a distinct brand identity to help you attract and retain customers.

 

Business, Cycling

Leading Lawyer Gears Up To Represent Great Britain Age Group At Duathlon European Championships

A Yorkshire lawyer is proving she’s fit for business after qualifying to represent Great Britain in the Duathlon European Championships.

Victoria Boid, a Partner in the Corporate team of leading Yorkshire law firm Ison Harrison, will be taking on the gruelling challenge in Portugal.

Victoria, who has been training for the event for seven months, has previously competed in duathlon and triathlon championships but this is the first time she’s represented Great Britain in the European Championships.

The 2024 Europe Triathlon Duathlon Championships are in Coimbra, Portugal running 14-23 June. In addition to racing for Great Britain in Portugal, Victoria is also racing to qualify for the 2026 World Championships. She has previously achieved success in Thruxton, where she qualified for GB.

Victoria joined Ison Harrison in January last year and is also a fitness instructor at a gym in Harrogate. She qualified as a personal trainer in 2003, the same year as achieving her law degree.

Based at Duke House, the firm’s city centre headquarters in Leeds, Victoria also works out of the firm’s Harrogate office.

A specialist corporate mergers and acquisitions lawyer advising both buy and sell side clients with over 17 years’ experience gained in the commercial sector, Victoria trained in London and has worked internationally.

Having completed numerous client secondments over the years, Victoria has extensive experience of advising and representing owner-managed businesses, large corporates and financial institutions. Her current role involves supporting mid-market M&A activity in Leeds across a variety of commercial sectors and a diverse range of clients including those backed by private equity.

Victoria, who is an Olympic distance competitor, said: “To qualify for the European Championship and represent Great Britain is a dream come true. I entered the final race of the season last year after training for a solid 10 weeks and qualified. I placed third in my age group on the day which secured the opportunity for me to compete against up to 30 other world-class and elite athletes in the duathlon which comprises a 10km run, 40km bike and 5km run with no break aside from a shoe change and bike rack.”

“This will be a huge challenge but I can’t wait to compete and give it my best shot. I couldn’t do it without the support of my friends and colleagues at Ison Harrison who have encouraged me all the way and provided me with the most positive support in the lead up to the championships and throughout the intensive training.”

Ison Harrison became one of the first regional law firms to become a 100% employee-owned business in January 2022 after the three main shareholder directors agreed to sell the business to an Employee Ownership Trust.

The firm, which employs more than 250 staff across the region, posted a record turnover of over £22 million last year, up 16% from £19 million in 2022, as well as achieving numerous other business milestones. In the firm’s commercial division, which Victoria works in, turnover increased from £1.35m to £2.7m.

Victoria added: “The culture of the firm enables our employees to not only fulfil their potential as lawyers but to enhance other aspects of their life, positioning the firm ahead of its competitors. People love to work here and our clients are provided with a service reflective of that.”

Managing director Jonathan Wearing, commented: “We’re all very proud of Victoria and wish her well representing Great Britain at the European Championships. She is an outstanding lawyer and real team player, so we’re all extremely confident in her determination to succeed.”

“We’re supporting Victoria all the way as we do with all our employees and since the firm switched to a full employee ownership model, this has been a hugely positive experience for everyone at the firm, making it much easier to really get behind these kinds of inspirational achievements and initiatives that get the whole firm engaged.”

Business, Health

Bupa Foundation launches Healthy Cities campaign to boost urban access to green spaces and promote health in the UK

Schools, charities and community groups invited to apply for green grants during June

Today, Bupa Foundation has announced the launch of its 2024 Healthy Cities campaign, which encourages people to adopt healthy, long-term habits in their daily lives while preserving and regenerating green spaces.

During June, Bupa’s employees, partners, and customers will participate in a 30-day walking challenge to promote the benefits of being outdoors in nature and fundraise for green initiatives. The collective effort will unlock up to £750,000 from the Bupa Foundation to support local green projects across the UK.

Bupa is encouraging schools and charities to apply for this funding through its Green Community Grants scheme. Applications for up to £2000 to fund green projects are open and can be made throughout June at bupafoundation.org/green-community-grants.

Healthy Cities runs across 24 countries and is part of Bupa’s commitment to supporting one million people in improving their health each year by 2025 through environmental restoration and regeneration.

Last year, Bupa Foundation supported over 230 projects across the UK, directly benefiting more than 142,000 people. Schools, community groups and charities received funding for outdoor classrooms, sensory gardens, food banks, allotments, playgrounds and other green space improvements. Globally, the challenge involved 80,000 participants from 24 countries, resulting in a £2 million investment in projects such as forest creation, school green grants, coastal clean-ups, and ecosystem restoration.

One of last year’s grant recipients, Stephens and George Centenary Charitable Trust, shared, “The funding from Bupa’s Green Community Grant has transformed our space from a mere patch of grey and concrete land into a vibrant area of community activity, where people of all ages and backgrounds come together to connect, learn, and grow. Its positive impact resonates not only in the physical transformation of the space but also in the smiles, laughter, and sense of belonging it brings to those who use it.”

Anna Russell, Director of the Bupa Foundation, added: “Our Healthy Cities challenge focuses on encouraging people to adopt long-term healthy habits that contribute to our own individual health while preserving and regenerating our green spaces around us. 

“We are pleased to offer even more grants to organisations across the UK in 2024 to help improve their outdoor spaces and benefit the community. I strongly encourage local groups to apply for this funding, as it’s a good opportunity to make a meaningful impact on both people and planet health.” 

Additionally, Bupa and the Bupa Foundation will support the ‘We Invented the Weekend’ free festival in Salford on 15 and 16 June. At the festival, Bupa will host a ‘We Get Healthy’ stand, featuring Bupa clinicians and activities such as organised runs, dance-a-thons, and a family-friendly mini-marathon. Everyone’s efforts will unlock additional funding for local green causes, furthering the mission to make cities healthier.

For more information about the Healthy Cities campaign and how to apply for the Green Community Grants, visit bupafoundation.org/green-community-grants.

News

Organic farm estate prepares for fun-filled summer of Rhug

VISITORS from across North Wales and beyond are preparing for a fun-filled summer of Rhug.

The 12,500-acre organic farm estate, based near Corwen in Denbighshire, has unveiled a series of events that will attract thousands of people over the coming months.

As well as the always popular Open Farm Sunday, to be held on June 9, Rhug Estate is preparing for its first ever summer fair.

Taking place on Saturday June 8, the packed programme includes a barbecue and entertainment, competitions, children’s activities, a photo station and appearances by Mynydd Sleddog Adventures and a legion from the Roman Living History Society.

Entry is free and there will be an abundance of stalls featuring local producers such as Coastal Craft Design, Sail Bags, Tired Mums Coffee, Bathing Beauty, Wildlife by Mouse, Kirsty Williams Ceramics and CraftyMooStudio.

Rhug Estate owner Lord Newborough is looking forward to the inaugural event and said: “This is an opportunity for us to capitalise on the success of the Open Farm Sunday by extending our land and facilities for the whole weekend.

“We welcome people from all over the country to our farm shop, drive thru and café – which will also be available throughout – and are sure even more will join us for this amazing selection of attractions and activities.

“There is something for everyone, so fingers crossed for sunshine! We hope to see you all here soon.”

This year, Open Farm Sunday takes place from 10am-4pm and entry is free; among the highlights will be sheepdog demonstrations, sheep shearing, farm machinery, and food and drink stalls.

Those in attendance can learn more about life on a working farm and meet the animals, including sheep, deer and Rhug’s herd of North American bison, the largest in the UK.

Volunteers from Wales Federation of Young Farmers (Wales YFC) will be on hand to give information and guidance.

The Estate’s upcoming calendar also includes a series of farm walks, Animal Encounters, Merioneth County Show, wine tasting sessions, and the always well-attended Corwen Shears.

For more information, email events@rhug.co.uk and visit the website www.rhug.co.uk. You can also follow them on social media at @rhugestate.

Accountancy, Accountancy & Accounts, Accounts and Accountancy, Business News, Cardiff, Leadership

Kilsby Williams announces major Partner promotions

Tax and accountancy specialist Kilsby Williams has announced a major enhancement of its leadership team, doubling its partner group to 11 with six new internal promotions to partner.

Lucy Creese, Stuart Evans, Dafydd Ford, Rob Meredith and Kaye Morris have been promoted from within the firm’s fast growing Tax, Growth and Transactions departments, while Huw Sheppard from the Audit, Accountancy and Payroll teams completes the leadership group.

Simon Tee, managing partner at Kilsby Williams, said: “This is an incredibly exciting time for our business and we are proud that we are able to expand our leadership team with six outstanding internal promotions. We have been growing at a fantastic rate over the last few years and the capabilities and ideas our new partners bring will ensure we can continue to do so in the future.”

The announcement coincides with an exciting new brand identity and website.

The brand refresh has seen the firm retain the respected Kilsby Williams name and diamond logo, supported by a fresh colour palette and updated design across its new website with improved functionality, and at its Newport headquarters.

The website’s significant functionality overhaul now offers existing and prospective clients a seamless experience, showcasing the firm’s tax and accountancy expertise, case studies and thought leadership in a more user-friendly way. The new site allows the firm to better interact with its client base of entrepreneurs, local fast growth businesses, and national and international groups.

Simon Tee added: “With the continued use of the Kilsby Williams name, there is a classic feel to the new branding, representing the firm’s determination to stay true to its history and culture. These have been the bedrock of the firm’s success and made us a recognisable, trusted partner to our varied client portfolio for over 30 years.

“Whilst retaining our heritage, we have also developed a modern, forward-thinking new look that fully embraces the firm’s current evolution and growth as the largest independent firm in the region and improves our clients’ experience.”

Established in 1991, Kilsby Williams works with clients locally in south Wales, extending across the UK and globally. Their clients range from sole traders to international quoted groups.

Appointments, Business, Business News, Insurance, Jobs

Howden makes experienced appointment in south Wales as Welsh operation continues to grow

HOWDEN, the global insurance group, has welcomed Chris Harvey to its south Wales team in line with its continued growth.

Chris joins the team as commercial account executive, having previously worked in commercial insurance roles at Towergate and Jelf. Most recently, he was a director and shareholder at a Rhondda-based, rapidly expanding family-owned business.

In his new role, Chris will use his wealth of experience to assist commercial and corporate clients with all aspects of their insurances.

On his appointment, Chris said: “I am thrilled to have joined the Howden team in south Wales, at what is a very exciting time for the business’ Welsh presence. I was drawn to Howden due to its customer centricity.

“We are not restricted by having to place business with certain insurers, and every day is about going above and beyond to achieve the best result for our clients. Howden is very focused on looking after both its employees and clients, which is an important factor to me.

“My main goal is to help as many businesses in Wales as possible, with honest and friendly advice that makes their lives easier.”

Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director, said: “Chris is already an invaluable addition to our Welsh team, and has shown exceptional skill at this important time in our growth journey.

“Chris’ board-level experience within a fast-growing business puts him in a great position to help our clients, and we are delighted to have him on board as we continue to build a solid community in south and west Wales.”