All posts by NTSI Publishing Team

Business, Business News

Leading with inclusion: Women pioneering change at Hospital Innovations

Hospital Innovations, a leading UK medical supply company, is set to mark International Women’s Day on March 8th, 2024, by reaffirming its commitment to the theme of #InspireInclusion

At the helm of this initiative are Sarah Lister-Sims, Kate Fisher, and Rachel McClure, leaders within the Pontyclun-based organisation, which boasts a leadership team where women hold 50% of key positions.

Sarah Lister-Sims, serving as Managing Director since 2008, has been instrumental in shaping the company’s trajectory within the UK Human Tissue market. Drawing from her extensive experience across various male-dominated industries, Sarah champions ethical practices and gender parity within Hospital Innovations and the broader industry landscape.

Sarah said: “I have spent my whole career in male dominated industries – retail, oil and gas, and blow mould manufacturing, prior to medical. I have personally experienced bias and the focus on obstacles, not just for women, but also for young people, especially young females.

“It is important to encourage each other and to be proud of being ambitious. As we experience success, we have a duty to be part of the solution and not just point out obstacles or other women’s shortfalls.

“Here at Hospital Innovations, we have an equal opportunity policy which I am proud to say is alive and well.  Both men and women are empowered and encourage each other. There is no bias to getting hired or being promoted, as we evidence. I am proud of our inclusive work culture that finds solutions for the challenges that women experience whilst working.

“Our senior men recognise the female talent pipeline as much as we do; and together we are able to celebrate our differences, working together in a stronger fashion. Our male colleagues act as champions to help women advance and succeed. I really believe that they agree women should not be the exception in any decision-making process; hence the 50/50 ratio that we have.”

Kate Fisher, appointed Operations Manager in 2020, oversees the functioning of supply chain operations across multiple sites, ensuring efficiency and adherence to regulatory standards. With a strong commitment to ethical conduct and operational excellence, Kate plays a pivotal role in maintaining Hospital Innovations’ reputation for reliability and quality service delivery.

Kate stated: “I’m fortunate to have a fantastic team at each of our supply chain sites, who represent a mix of not only genders, but also ages and ethnicities. We are proud to celebrate diversity within our modern-day workforce.

“I’m confident in the knowledge and experience that I bring to my role but welcome ideas and suggestions from my team to improve the processes we perform and the service that we offer to our customers. I strongly believe that a diverse team is integral to the generation of new ideas, across a mix of different strengths and views.

“I have two young daughters and hope to inspire them and to show them that they can follow whatever career path they choose in the future”.

Rachel McClure, serving as Medical Education Manager, brings over two decades of experience to her role, advocating for education and inclusivity within the orthopaedic sector. In her role, Rachel is responsible for enhancing medical education initiatives, facilitating knowledge sharing, and promoting best practices in the field of Human Tissue allograft.

Rachel remarked: “I have been passionate about IWD and their work for many years. I believe in inspiring inclusion by leading as an example. It’s up to all of us to break down gender bias and encourage those around us to fulfil their potential.

“I’ve witnessed firsthand the transformative power of inclusivity, and I’m committed to playing my part in driving positive change. By championing diversity and equality in my actions and leadership, I hope to inspire others to join me in the journey towards a more inclusive and equitable workforce.”

International Women’s Day (IWD) is a global day celebrating the social, economic, cultural, and political achievements of women. It is observed annually on March 8th and serves as a call to action for accelerating gender parity and promoting women’s rights worldwide. IWD has been celebrated for over a century and is recognised as a significant occasion to raise awareness about gender equality issues, celebrate women’s accomplishments, and advocate for positive change.

About Hospital Innovations:

Hospital Innovations is a Human Tissue Authority (HTA) licensed supplier of specialist products, including human tissue and specialist medical instruments, used in orthopaedic and corrective surgeries, working in partnership with five of the world’s leading tissue banks.

Transport

Veezu supports Meersbrook Bank Primary School’s playground renovation project

Veezu has donated £1000 to Meersbrook Bank Primary School to aid the school’s ongoing efforts to enhance their outdoor spaces.

Meersbrook Bank embarked on their playground renovation project last year, raising funds through sponsored cycles, bake sales and corporate sponsorship. Over Christmas the first phase was carried out, partially replacing dangerous surfacing in the foundation unit, and introducing a play tower, construction area and water play area. With six phases in total, the project is estimated to cost around £200,000.

The Funded by Veezu donation has been allocated to the purchase of wooden playground equipment for pupils to play, socialise, and develop essential skills outside the classroom environment.

Sacha Skinner, Regional Marketing Manager at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to be supporting Meersbrook Bank on their mission to create a safe and fun outdoor environment for students. The wooden playground equipment is a great addition to the playground, and we can’t wait to visit again and see the complete renovation.”

Mrs Harvey, Head Teacher of Meersbrook Bank Primary School, expressed her gratitude for the donation, stating: “Outdoor play is a crucial part of primary education and has huge benefits for children’s physical and mental health and wellbeing.

“The children are working hard to organise their own fundraising activities, but corporate sponsorship is vital to complete this project. We are extremely grateful for Veezu’s generous donation which has contributed to the enhancement of the outdoor play experience.”

For more information about the Funded by Veezu initiative, please visit: https://www.veezu.co.uk/funded-by-veezu

Cardiff, Events

Swiss Ambassador highlights close working relationship with the UK in Cardiff Business Club address

His Excellency Markus Leitner, Ambassador of Switzerland to the United Kingdom, addressed Cardiff Business Club at a lunch event sponsored by Eversheds Sutherland, on 27 February at Sophia Gardens.

Leitner spoke about the strong working relationships between Wales and Switzerland through programmes such as the electrification of the railways and the supply of a large number of trains as part of the significant redevelopment of the Transport for Wales network, focusing on the many links and partnerships between the UK and Switzerland.

His speech shed light on the Swiss government’s four focuses for our two countries to work more closely together in the near future, highlighting a modernised free trade agreement and improved mobility alongside a focus on financial services and science and research.

With negotiations currently in place for a modernised free trade agreement, Leitner said mobility needed to be improved in order to ease the trade process for the service provider, ensuring easier and freer trade between the two nations.

He highlighted that both countries hold major financial centres, mentioning Cardiff’s fintech industry, and said that there needs to be an agreement between these financial centres to work in tandem. With life sciences taking specific focus, the Ambassador supported the Government’s aims and outlined that the onus is now with the private sector to support his Government’s plans.

He touched on Brexit and how Switzerland can lead by example as a European country that is thriving outside of the European Union, thanks to its strong currency and dominant economy, alongside their policy of neutrality. Switzerland is fully committed to its policy of neutrality, which is not the same as indifference, he said. The Ambassador reiterated that the country is fully committed to international law, support to the civilian population and eventually peace in Ukraine.

 

 

One of the biggest challenge Switzerland faces is its relationship to the EU, as in some ways it was more integrated than some of its members, the Ambassador said.

Switzerland opted for access to the single market through five agreements, which should be updated and expanded by two more agreements. While the British and the Swiss starting points towards the EU might be different, a reinforced cooperation between the UK and Switzerland remains important.

Accountancy & Accounts, Accounts and Accountancy, Business, Business Advice

ACCA calls on chancellor to deal with double whammy of frozen thresholds and weak growth

  • Additional people and businesses are being pulled into higher tax bands, adding to an already overburdened HMRC service
  • Frozen thresholds can result in companies not being as productive and instead capping their profit under thresholds to avoid taxation
  • UK economy remains weak, and small businesses are concerned about continuing inflation hitting their bottom line

 

In an open letter to the chancellor, leading global accountancy body ACCA highlights key concerns flagged by their 98,000 UK members, and what they want to see addressed in the Spring Budget on the 6th March 2024.

 

This includes concerns over the UK’s economic strength and attractiveness for investment, the impact of inflation on small businesses, and the continued freezing or reduction of allowances and thresholds, including personal allowances, PAYE and VAT thresholds, savings allowance and the dividend allowance.

 

Frozen allowances and thresholds are likely to add to an already stretched HMRC service by bringing more people into the tax net and increasing the workload of HMRC. As previously reported in 2023 by ACCA, 93% of financial professionals demanded drastic change from HMRC services, with more than half reporting that poor service from HMRC was affecting their clients and businesses as a result.

 

Combining an overwhelmed HMRC service with the impact it has on small businesses, agents and taxpayers and the weak UK economic positioning on the global stage, ACCA’s letter to the chancellor focuses on a call for practical action that promotes sustainable, long-term growth for businesses and individuals.

 

Glenn Collins, head of technical and strategic engagement, ACCA UK, said: “The government should be as concerned as we are about the unintended consequences of frozen thresholds and additional complexity – allowance freezes can catch out many taxpayers. Many taxpayers end up overpaying or underpaying tax.

 

“Increasingly, the impact of the freezing of allowances look like an artificial barrier to growth as well as harming the UK’s position as a competitive place to do business on the global stage.”

 

ACCA points out that the VAT threshold is a particular area of concern for small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs), especially in already troubled sectors. With inflation running so high over the last couple of years, any frozen threshold will bring more individuals and business into higher tax brackets – often for the first time – meaning they will have to register and file tax returns, creating more work for HMRC at a time when its service levels are buckling.

 

The ‘artificial barrier’ is created as companies can avoid going up a tax threshold by capping their profit and productivity just under that – ultimately slowing UK economic growth as a result. Without proper government incentivisation to grow and prosper, businesses will continue to stagnate – something reflected in the recent recession figures that were released.

 

Collins added: “The government should review the impact of tax thresholds and complexity on business growth with a particular focus on key sectors. Raising thresholds to be in line with inflation would allow people to be taxed more fairly, rather than having to introduce broad-brush tax cuts which when you look at the bigger picture, are cancelled out by the frozen thresholds.”

 

Visit ACCA’s website for more information.

 

Transport, Travel

Veezu takes the stage as official ride partner for Wolverhampton Grand Theatre

Wolverhampton’s leading private hire operator, Veezu, has launched their partnership with Wolverhampton Grand Theatre as official ride partner.

 

Veezu, formerly known as Go Carz, kicked off the partnership on 1 December to coincide with the panto season, one of the busiest times of the year for theatres. Veezu offered convenient and reliable journeys to guests visiting the theatre as well as cast and staff with a taxi booker device and QR codes linked to the booking app.

 

Now, as official ride partner and member of the Theatre’s renowned Business Club, Veezu will be continuing its support by allowing theatre-goers greater access to safe, reliable, and easily-accessible journeys.

 

Jane Cole, Head of Commercial and Events at Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, said: “We are proud to welcome Veezu as Premium members of our esteemed Business Club. We are honoured to have a company of Veezu’s calibre join our community of forward-thinking businesses.

 

“This collaboration reflects our commitment to fostering meaningful partnerships that contribute to the growth and success of both the arts and local businesses. We eagerly anticipate the positive impact that Veezu’s presence will bring to the Grand Theatre and our vibrant Business Club.”

 

Graham Hoof, Regional Operations Director for Veezu in the Midlands, said: “We are delighted to be solidifying this partnership as official ride partner. Providing convenience, safety and reliability to the local community is at the forefront of what we do, so we are proud to continue to support the theatre with rides for staff who are working late, as well as providing safe travel for theatre goers.

 

“We are also proud to be partnering with a theatre for the first time. We believe in the importance of the arts, and especially the work of Wolverhampton Grand Theatre, and this partnership will reflect our dedication to helping keep the arts alive in the local community.

Accountancy & Accounts, Events, Sustainability, Wales

ACCA celebrates St David’s Day with a focus on building on heritage for a sustainable future

National Day marked with business leaders hearing about sustainability and transformation

 

ACCA Cymru/Wales marked St David’s Day by bringing together the business community in Wales to celebrate the contribution commerce makes to the community and celebrate Wales’ national day.

 

Anne Jessopp, CEO of Llantrisant-based The Royal Mint told the 170-strong audience at a breakfast in Cardiff how a business founded in AD 886 is working hard to make sure it is around for another 1,100 years, transforming the business around its rich heritage.

 

While facing challenges – not least the continuing decline in coin usage – Jessopp set out for the audience of business professionals how The Royal Mint could harness its rich history to ensure it has a dynamic future. It is becoming a leader in reclaiming precious metals from electronic waste such as laptops and mobile phones.

 

With an annual revenue of £1.9 billion and customers in 120 countries, and an unrivalled expertise in precious metals, Jessopp talked about how she set about reinventing and transforming The Royal Mint.

 

The Royal Mint is committed to becoming a leader in sustainable precious metals. Later this year it will open a multi-million pound plant to recover gold from UK electronic waste. The pioneering facility will use patented chemistry to recover gold and other metals from circuit boards, generating hundreds of kilograms of precious metals per annum for The Royal Mint.

 

Jessopp said: “One of the ways we understand our purpose is the value we place on British crafts.  Our new business ventures not only contribute to our overall business success but also provide opportunities. We are moving our people into more sustainable skilled roles as well as nurturing new and diverse talent.”

 

Picking up on Anne Jessopp’s themes, ACCA Global Council member Helen Morgan spoke about the role that accountants play in supporting businesses and organisations of all sizes and in all sectors in challenging times.

 

As well as reflecting on key business issues the event heard about the unique work of the Sir Gareth Edwards cancer charity. The charity supports young people aged 15-35 who live in Wales, are receiving treatment for cancer and who are struggling financially.

 

Lloyd Powell, head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, said: “It was a pleasure to hear from Anne Jessopp as she leads such an important Welsh-based organisation. Anne’s message about a clear vision, international trade, sustainability, skills and business transformation resonates with ACCA and all our members in Wales.

 

“We were delighted we worked on this event with our longstanding partners Menzies and University of South Wales. It was great to see so many guests. It is so important for the business community to come together to ensure we continue to work towards a prosperous future for Wales.”

Awards, Education, Events

10th Moving Image Awards Celebrates Rising Stars in Filmmaking

YOUNG filmmaking prodigies were celebrated at the 10th annual Moving Image Awards at a ceremony held at the British Film Institute on 26 February.

 

Proud students, parents, and teachers from across the UK gathered at the prestigious event to celebrate the work of young directors, screenwriters, and producers.

 

The Moving Image Awards, which launched in 2014 in collaboration with the British Film Institute, recognises and celebrates the best moving image productions from students undertaking Eduqas qualifications in Film and Media across the UK.

 

Categories this year included Best Short Film, Music Video, TV/Film Extract, Screenplay, One to Watch and Student Jury Prize.

 

Cherry Ellis, from Steyning Grammar School in West Sussex, took home the coveted Student Jury Prize title at this year’s awards for her film titled ‘The Deep Mind Experience’. The film is an experimental stop frame animation, where the protagonist is taken on a psychedelic dream-like journey inside his own subconscious mind.

 

The judges commended Cherry on her use of contrasting images, colour and music to reflect the mundane real-world vs the colourful and beautiful world of the subconscious mind.

 

Following her win, Cherry said: “I am so surprised to have won this award! After they announced all the winners I didn’t realise there was going to be another category, so I was so surprised and so happy when they called my name! I wanted to create a story that was a form of escapism and wanted to emphasis the difference between the mundane everyday life and the crazy, wacky other worlds.”

 

Winners:

Further awards went to:

 

Short Film:

Ricardo Sokolowska-Pedrosa from Dover Grammar School for Boys, for ‘Uninhabitable’, a short documentary about poor-quality accommodation and unscrupulous landlords taking advantage of vulnerable people in Dover.

 

Judges’ comments: “Excellent for all three categories: technical competence, form and genre, creativity, and resourcefulness. Great topic and excellent storytelling within the genre.”

 

Music Video:

Callum Doddington from St Bartholomew’s School in Berkshire for Erase/ Replace, a music video for band ‘Seize’, consisting of shots of band members as well as montage shots filling in as ‘clues’ to the bigger picture of what ‘happened’.

 

Judges’ comments: “A well filmed and edited music video. Well-structured with consistently excellent technical codes and editing. Very creative in the representation of the band and the enigmatic narrative. Excellent use of narrative motifs. A range of filming techniques used. Excellent lip synching and filming of actual performance.”

 

Screenplay:

Nathan Mitchell from Strode’s College, Egham for Motorway Pastures, a screenplay about a hitchhiker who begins to see the increasingly impossible, all while the ‘corn laughs and the sky splits.’

 

Judges’ comments: “Excellent horror film – clear control of time. Good visualisation and parallel storytelling. Brilliant.”

 

Film/TV Extract:

Harvey Miller from St Bartholomew’s School for AVA, a short pre-title and title sequence for the TV show ‘AVA’ that encompasses the essence of suspense and technological intrigue, and draws inspiration from the series ‘Humans’, ‘Utopia’ and ‘Black Mirror’.

 

Judge’s comments: “Pacy editing to the opening which quickly engages the audience and establishes genre. Excellent use of camerawork to set up imminent danger and suggest the foreboding narrative. Genre conventions are well employed and add to the drama of the sequence.”

 

One to Watch:

Ruby Hagan from Upton Hall School FCJ in Birkenhead for Laika, a short experimental animation detailing the life of one of the first creatures in space: “Laika the Space Dog”.

 

Judges’ comments: “A beautiful inventive animation based on the real-life story of Laika, the Soviet space dog who orbited earth in 1957. The film combines animation styles, including line drawing and painting to stunning effect.”

The winning videos are available to view on the Moving Image Awards YouTube channel.

The event has garnered acknowledgment from educators and professors of film and media studies at various institutions throughout the UK, along with prominent figures within the film industry. Among this year’s guest speakers were film critic and former President of the UK Critics’ Circle Anna Smith, writer and director Lorna Tucker, feature film script editor Kate Leys and Metro chief film critic Larushka Ivan-Zadeh.

Larushka Ivan-Zadeh said: “Today’s award ceremony has been absolutely amazing. It’s always so inspiring! I believe the biggest challenge facing young people today is getting over their own limits and beliefs about being filmmakers. What we’ve taken away from today is that actually, the industry is an amazing place. There is enough work for everyone, you just have to really find your voice and believe in yourself. You have to believe that people really want to hear what you have to say and produce. Go for it!.”

Anna Smith said: “To the students who want to pursue a career in Film or TV I would just say, keep knocking on those doors – don’t give up! You must be very determined but also willing to learn all the way. Don’t be afraid to ask for advice from someone you find inspirational.”

Jenny Stewart, Eduqas Film Studies Subject Officer, said: “We are delighted to celebrate the 10th anniversary of the Moving Image Awards. The talent showcased this year is testament to the continued success and growth of the WJEC Eduqas Film and Media qualifications, and the hard work and innovation of young filmmakers and their teachers. We wish all entrants a huge congratulations on your achievements in film and media production.”

Ian Morgan, Eduqas Chief Executive, added: “The Moving Image Awards are always a highlight in my calendar. For a decade now, we’ve been recognising exceptional filmmaking talent, and this year was no different. Each and every entrant should be immensely proud of their achievement, no matter the result.

“We are also incredibly grateful for the unwavering support of our judges. Their dedication and commitment have been instrumental in making this event the resounding success it is today.”

For more information on the Moving Image Awards, visit: http://www.movingimageawards.co.uk/

Cardiff, Insurance, South Wales

Cardiff Capital Region London event showcases South Wales investment opportunities

INVESTMENT opportunities in South Wales were the focus of a London event (Monday February 26) which promoted the benefits of co-investment with the Cardiff Capital Region (CCR).

The ‘Investing in the Cardiff Capital Region’ event, part of the annual Wales Week London programme, aimed to develop the dialogue with the investment community in Wales, London, and beyond, exploring opportunities around co-investment with the CCR’s portfolio of funds such as the Innovation Investment Capital and Strategic Premises Fund, and also the soon-to-be launched Northern Valleys Initiative.

More than 85 attendees including investors and developers, heard about the competitive advantages in the Region, its cluster strategy, the creation of the new Investment Zone, and the major redevelopment of the former Aberthaw Power Station site.

The event was hosted by Baroness Wilcox of Newport, and CCR director Kellie Beirne facilitated discussions between an expert panel comprising Wales Office Minister Fay Jones MP; Lucy Cohen of Mazuma, which recently received capital funding from the CCR’s Innovation Investment Capital to help boost its operations; Michael Magee, a Partner at PwC; and George Richards, senior director at CBRE.

Councillor Mary Ann Brocklesby, Leader of Monmouthshire County Council and Portfolio Lead of Research and Innovation, also spoke about the importance of sustainable growth allied to innovation.

Cllr Brocklesby said: “South Wales offers so many exciting investment opportunities, and the Cardiff Capital Region is an enabler and collaborator that can help make these happen.

“We encourage investors and developers from Wales, the UK, and beyond, to talk to us about how we can work together to bring out economic and social benefits in the region.”

Wales Office Minister Fay Jones said: “The CCR has consistently been a catalyst for investment and innovation across South Wales. This event highlighted the breadth of investment opportunities that the Cardiff Capital Region provides, showing why the UK Government is proud to support its on-going work and invest in its future.”

Lucy Cohen is the co-founder and CEO of Bridgend-based online accountancy firm Mazuma, which recently received a multi-million pound investment from the Innovation Investment Capital (IIC), funded by CCR.

She spoke about what the investment meant for her firm, which is one of the leading providers of accountancy services for micro businesses in the UK, and differentiates its business through a subscription model that allows subscribers to choose from a range of accountancy packages, and benefit from its proprietary technology through MazApp®.

Lucy said: “With the addition of this new investment from IIC Mazuma will accelerate the development of its new accountancy technology solutions, expand the marketing and sales teams in Bridgend, and invest in the firm’s infrastructure and operations to support growth.

“The CCR shares our goals and vision. We can now accelerate the development of our proprietary technology, and leverage our position to pursue long-term strategic goals.”

The Mazuma investment is IIC’s second investment, with the first in being AMPLYFI, the Cardiff-based disruptive generative artificial intelligence business. To date, the fund has received more than 160 applications for funding from potential investee companies across South Wales.

Launched in November 2022 and backed by UK Government funds with an initial £50 million from CCR, the fund is looking to invest long-term capital in sustainable growth opportunities across the ten unitary authorities that comprise the CCR. Its General Partner is Capricorn Fund Managers (CFM), which is responsible for managing the fund and the overall portfolio and risk management, with PwC supporting CFM in advisory matters, including investment research and sourcing.

The ‘Investing in the Cardiff Capital Region’ event was held as part of the Wales Week in London programme which aims to highlight and showcase opportunities in the country.

Disclaimer

Capricorn Fund Managers Limited (Capricorn) is the alternative investment fund manager (AIFM) for Innovation Investment Capital (IIC) and is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 505252).

PricewaterhouseCoopers LLP (PwC) is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FRN 221411). It is able to offer a limited range of investment services to clients (if they are an incidental part of PwC’s professional services) as it is a member of a relevant Designated Professional Body. PwC is acting on behalf of Capricorn for the provision of advisory and operational services in support of the IIC.

Any information provided by PwC in relation to the IIC is for general guidance only and does not constitute professional advice. You should not act upon any such information without obtaining professional advice. No representation or warranty (express or implied) is given as to the accuracy or completeness of such information, and, to the extent permitted by law, PwC, Capricorn and The County Council of the City and County of Cardiff on behalf of Cardiff Capital Region (“CCR”) and their respective members, employees and agents do not accept or assume any liability, responsibility or duty of care for any consequences of you or anyone else acting, or refraining to act, in reliance on such information or for any decision based on it.

Please note that data collected for the purpose of your investment proposal to IIC will be shared with Capricorn in their role as alternative investment fund manager (AIFM) for IIC.

© 2024 PwC. All rights reserved. PwC refers to the PwC network and/or one or more of its member firms, each of which is a separate legal entity. Please see www.pwc.com/structure for further details.

Newport, Transport

Veezu becomes official ride partner for Dragons RFC and Newport County AFC

Veezu, the UK’s fastest-growing private hire private hire technology platform, is the official ride partner for Dragons RFC and Newport County AFC.

 

Dragons RFC, based in Newport, is one of the four professional rugby union teams in Wales and shares a home at the Rodney Parade Stadium with Newport County AFC, the professional League Two football club.

 

With the introduction of the Veezu brand in the region last month the company is looking to strengthen its connections in South Wales with sporting partnerships that matter to the local communities where it operates.

 

As official ride partner, Veezu will be offering reliable, safe and convenient travel to and from Rodney Parade stadium for fans on match days.

 

Jack Price, Regional Operations Director at Veezu, said: “We are delighted to partner with Dragons RFC and Newport County, helping shape a great matchday experience for fans. With local community at the heart of Veezu, it’s great to be able to continue to support local clubs year-on-year, and invest in our community.”

 

David Watts, Commercial Executive at Dragons RFC, said: “This new partnership will be of real benefit to visitors to Rodney Parade, whether on a match day or in the working week.

 

“A big area of focus for Dragons this season is our environmental impact, so it’s fantastic to join forces with Veezu who align closely with our values and have a real focus on sustainable growth.

 

“We’re excited to continue to grow and develop our partnership with Veezu in the coming years, and our supporters should look out for future updates on the partnership and further benefits for them.”

 

Louis Cartwright-Walls, Media Manager at Newport County, said: “Partnering with Veezu will bring great benefits to our dedicated fans at Newport County AFC by ensuring safe and reliable transport for all.

 

“Being a local team, community is very important to us so it’s a joy to see Veezu sharing those values and connecting with the community through their ongoing support. We are very much looking forward to what this partnership has in store, and how we can work together to give back to fans and create unforgettable experiences.”

Business, Charity Events, Charity News, Events, News from Wales, South Wales, Swansea

Howden official Swansea office opening flanked by rugby star

The official opening of a new Howden office in Swansea was flanked by Welsh rugby legend Tom Shanklin at an event last week, Thursday February 22. 

Howden, the international insurance intermediary group, began trading from the new office in Axis Court, Riverside Business Park, Swansea, last month, with this event marking the official opening of the new location. The office has already welcomed 14 skilled brokers since the beginning of the year, with plans to recruit more talent in the coming months.  

The official opening event saw Tom, who won 70 caps for Wales between 2001 – 2010, share his experiences with Welsh rugby and the British & Irish Lions—an association that aligns with Howden’s headline sponsorship for the upcoming Lion’s tour. 

Guests at the opening event also participated in a raffle in aid of Wales Air Ambulance Charity, with prizes including 4-ball at the Celtic Manor, a £250 Gaucho voucher, and a Fortnum and Mason hamper.  

The creation of an office in Swansea is part of Howden UK & Ireland’s commitment to further strengthen its foothold in the South and West Wales region, providing risk advisory services to businesses. 

On the event, Gary Stevens, Regional Managing Director, said: “Embracing the spirit of Welsh resilience and teamwork, the official opening of our Swansea office alongside rugby icon Tom Shanklin signifies not only our commitment to the region but also our shared values of excellence and community. Just as in rugby, where teamwork and strategy are paramount, at Howden, we are dedicated to working closely with our clients to navigate risks and achieve success together. 

“The swift momentum of our Swansea office speaks volumes, and we’re thrilled to have assembled such a skilled and seasoned team, with more to join in the coming months.” 

 

About Howden  

Howden is a leading global insurance intermediary group with employee ownership at its heart.  Founded in 1994, it operates in 50 countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, the USA, Australia and New Zealand, employing 16,000 people and handling $38bn of premium on behalf of clients. 

  

For more information, please visit www.howdengroupholdings.com