All posts by Lisa Baker

News

Leadership programme supports growth of music studio for disadvantaged kids

A RENOWNED leadership programme hit all the right notes with a talented music studio manager.

Wrexham Sounds has gone from strength to strength since opening its doors in February, providing disadvantaged children and young people with music-based activities, courses and lessons.

Schools, agencies, charities and families use the Rhosrobin-based social enterprise, which draws on a talented team of freelance tutors to deliver its services.

At the helm is General Manager Olivia Gallagher, a member of the current cohort of CMI Level 7 learners on the popular 20Twenty leadership programme, delivered by Bangor University at Holt Lodge, Wrexham, to organisations in north Powys, Flintshire, and Wrexham.

The 26 year-old says the interactive workshops, study sessions and networking with representatives from different industries has been invaluable.

“As Wrexham Sounds grows, I am also growing professionally, learning new things all the time about this sector and gaining vital experience,” said Olivia, a former St Joseph’s High School pupil.

“I thought it would be an interesting programme that could help me develop my leadership and management skills, and that has definitely been the case.

“As well as the online and in-person seminars and workshops I’ve enjoyed interacting and sharing ideas with other members of the group, who come from a variety of backgrounds.”

A former PGCE student at Aberystwyth University, Olivia also has a degree in Interactive Arts from Manchester Metropolitan University and studied at the University of Lapland as part of the Erasmus Programme.

She added: “As an organisation we have formed strong connections in the public and private sectors, as well as with educators, third sector organisations and charities.

“Since opening we’ve made huge strides and as many have during the pandemic, navigated some challenges as well.

“Being on the programme has already given me added confidence and the lessons and guidance I’ve received have had a positive impact on how I approach my role strategically.

“With it also contributing toward an MBA (Master of Business Administration) qualification there are many USPs, and I would definitely encourage other people in leadership roles to sign up.”

20Twenty Business Development Manager Jackie Whittaker said: “It is always heartening to hear how the Leading Growth programmes affected those who take part and the organisations they represent, giving them the tools and techniques to succeed in management.

“I’m delighted for Olivia, we wish her every success with the rest of the course, and in her bright future with Wrexham Sounds.”

The next CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Level 5-7 cohort of senior managers, owners, and directors begins in September.

Places are still available for the programmes – which are 80% funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through Welsh Government.

For more information and to sign up, email j.whittaker@bangor.ac.uk or visit the website: www.20TwentyBusinessGrowth.com.

News

Celebration of motoring and music returns to Wrexham for second year

WHEELS are in motion for the return of a popular family fun day.

The second Bersham Wheels event takes place at Coleg Cambria’s Bersham Road site in Wrexham from 10am to 3pm on Saturday July 9.

Many of the region’s top car, scooter, and motorcycle organisations will be in attendance, as well as enthusiasts displaying their own impressive vehicles.

Karl Jackson, Assistant Principal for the Institute of Technology, said: “Last year was a huge success so we hope to go one better this summer with even more people, more displays, and a wide range of activities throughout the day.

“As well as a selection of amazing cars and bikes from across the decades we will have live music, entertainment, guided tours, trade stands, a caricature artist, food and refreshments.

“Thanks to everyone who has signed up so far and we look forward to seeing you all on July 9 – hopefully the sun is shining for us once again!”

Among the vehicles confirmed to be on display are a high-speed drag racer, a classic MKII Cortina 1600, a unique Tesla wedding car, kit cars and TVRs.

Karl added: “We are still confirming some guests but there is already so much on offer, especially for petrol heads and enthusiasts wanting to take a closer look at a variety of motors, from vintage favourites to high-octane speedsters.

“We also have lots of activities for children and something for visitors of all ages, so we are really looking forward to welcoming visitors on-site.”

Admission and parking are free.

To exhibit your vehicle or have a stand at Bersham Wheels, email karl.jackson@cambria.ac.uk or terrica.smith@cambria.ac.uk. Alternatively, call 01978 267809.

Please register for free here if you plan to attend on the day: www.cambria.ac.uk/brwheels.

News

Retailer will strengthen links with UK innovators to improve pet health and sustainability

A GROUNDBREAKING pet retailer is focused on building even stronger relations with sustainable start-ups and innovative independent businesses.

PetPlace owners Sion Pritchard and Paul Penketh are targeting more bespoke suppliers and products designed to improve the health and wellbeing of animals, and fledgling firms looking to support the pet trade now and in the future.

The company, which is based in Kinmel Bay and has stores in Abergele, Ruthin, Mold, Llangefni and Chirk, already stocks many environmentally friendly items on its shelves but Sion says they plan to take things further in the months ahead.

“We are opening the doors to smaller, independent suppliers who specialise in the health and wellbeing of animals and want to be part of the pet industry,” he said.

“A lot of retail chains stock pet goods but without the emphasis on sustainability, the environment and creating innovative products that will make a difference to the pets, their owners and ultimately, the planet.

“We want to hear from the innovators, anyone with an idea that’s in motion or a start-up with an exciting new product that could cause a stir in the sector.

Sion added: “At PetPlace we are very different from the norm, we want to support the pet trade specifically and move forward together, away from the mass-market consumer approach to a more dedicated, proactive and tailored offering, ensuring our team members have as much knowledge as possible to share with our customers.”

Among the sustainable firms already working with Sion and the team is Adios Plastic, a Kent-based husband and wife partnership who launched their plastic-free biodegradable poo bag business in 2018.

Twenty million sales later, Ben and Sadie Dodd (pictured) are aiming to continue the compostable theme with pet wipes manufactured in the UK that naturally break down into the environment and serve as food to be consumed by microorganisms.

Ben said: “When we started there were a lot of poo bags on the market and the vast majority were plastic, which can take hundreds of years to break down.

“We wanted to do something different and after a lot of research began producing bags made from Cornstarch. From that we developed a range of colours – including our popular rainbow packs – that stood out from the standard options available, and it took off from there.”

He added: “We began supplying PetPlace during the pandemic and love everything they stand for; they are a model customer and have really got behind our brand.

“We grew 600% during first year of lockdown and another 200% in the last year, passing the 20 million sales mark in the UK alone, which as well as being great for us as a company has had a big impact on the environment.

“People are switching from plastic and it’s having a knock-on effect, this is where the industry is going which is great to see and so important.”

Another to work closely with PetPlace over the last year is Gillian Thomas-Jones, owner of Mountain Garden Botanics, based in New Brighton, Wrexham.

Having already created handmade shampoo and soaps for pets and humans – all palm oil, cruelty and plastic-free – she is using raw ingredients to create unique lines including an anti-pecking spray for chickens, and a calming mist for dogs and horses.

“It has been a steep learning curve, working long hours to develop the branding, a website, coming up with new ideas and doing all of that while ensuring this is a completely natural series of products with natural packaging,” said Gillian.

“With the support of customers like PetPlace, who are a breath of fresh air, we can work together to manufacture and supply products dedicated to the health and happiness of animals and their owners, which will always be our number one priority.”

Visit www.mountaingardenbotanics.co.uk for more on Mountain Garden Botanics, and www.adiosplastic.co.uk for the latest news and information from Adios Plastic.

For more information on PetPlace, including the PetPlace Plus+ loyalty app, follow @petplaceUK on Facebook and Instagram or email buying@farmandpetplace.Co.uk.

Business

Iain Sinnott appointed as Head of International Carrier Sales, Enreach for Service Providers

Sophia Antipolis, France, 23 June 2022 – Enreach for Service Providers, part of Enreach — the fast-growing European contact leader backed by the independent investment group, Waterland Private Equity (“Waterland”) — has today announced the appointment of Iain Sinnott as Head of International Carrier Sales, Enreach for Service Providers. Sinnott joins this part of Enreach to lead the growth and continued collaboration with the international carrier community, both fixed and mobile, including partners expanding beyond pure telephony into other contact services, such as integration with collaboration and other ICT tools.

Sinnot brings over thirty years of senior-level experience in the telecom industry and has also been a board member of the Cloud Communications Alliance since 2020. Sinnott’s focus will be to help legacy players and new market entrants guide their customers through digital transformation, including better customer experiences, improved productivity, support for hybrid working, and intuitive mobile business operations.

Sinnott explained why he chose to join the organisation: “What sets Enreach apart is its clear strategy around its vision of integrating multiple forms of contact, supported by a powerful portfolio of solutions already being rolled out across the region. The group’s modern product approach reflects users’ real-world needs today, with access to so many forms of contact: voice, chat, video, and more.”

Sinnott continued, “Enreach also has the right attitude towards working with carriers. We are not just selling technologies: we are sharing a strategy and need to work closely with each other to deliver products that end users will actually want to use. We also want to work more closely with the channel from pre-sale to point-of-sale and post-sale support.”

Bertrand Pourcelot, Managing Director of Enreach for Service Providers, added, “We are delighted to welcome Iain to our team of senior sales directors. He is an excellent fit with his enthusiasm, entrepreneurial energy, passion for products and people, as well as extensive insider knowledge of service providers globally. Enreach is on course to make a difference in this market.”

As well as seven years as Sales Director at Vanilla IP and VP, Sales at UBOSS, Sinnott was previously, Head of Indirect Sales at Timico Ltd, and Head of Indirect Sales at Martin Dawes. In addition, Sinnott has provided extensive consultancy services to various telecom industry organisations over the years.

News

Dance TV star Louie Spence and special guests appear at leadership graduation ceremony

DANCER and TV personality Louie Spence was among stars who paid tribute to delegates graduating from a prestigious leadership programme.

Former Wales rugby international Rupert Moon, sports presenter Mike Bushell, celebrity farmer Gareth Wyn Jones and Anglesey politicians Rhun ap Iorweth MS and MP Victoria Crosbie joined him in congratulating the latest cohort to complete the ION Leadership ILM Level 3 and Level 5 qualification.

Louie rose to fame as a choreographer in the hit programme Pineapple Dance Studios and performed in West End musicals including Cats and Miss Saigon before later featuring as a judge on the ITV show, Dancing on Ice.

Appearing via video link, he said: “Hello ION Leadership graduates, I just wanted to say a massive congratulations to you all on graduating from the programme at Bangor University today.

“I’ve heard how awesome you are, and I know how hard you’ve worked, so well done to you all, you’re just fab.

“Turn, pout, blow and a kiss for every single one of you – well done!”

The event was held at the University’s Business School, which delivers the Leading Business Growth suite of courses.

Sponsor was Llanberis-based Siemens-Healthineers, which saw five graduates attend on the day and 30 in total over past years.

The company’s HR Consultant Jo Swanston said: “We pride ourselves on providing a development platform for our employees to support them in realising their potential.

“Working in partnership with Bangor University, the ILM Programme has been key in supporting this for many years now and provides an opportunity for our employees to explore their own learning journey whilst the engaging and interactive sessions help them learn how to lead themselves, their teams, and the business more effectively – it’s a win-win!”

Among the other organisations represented were A Roberts Ltd, Armadillo Events, Centre of Sign, Sight, Sound, Aspire Park and Leisure Homes, GLI UK Gaming, Mareel UK, Quality Internet Solutions, Neat Crown Ltd, and North Wales Housing Association.

Lorraine Hopkins, Manager for the Leading Business Growth programmes at Bangor University Business School, said: “Thank you to Louie and all of the guests here today for being part of this special occasion.

“We continue to receive positive feedback for this and all our programmes, which is fantastic to hear, especially the impact they have on the day-to-day operations of companies across the region.

“Congratulations again to everyone who has graduated, we look forward to running further programmes in the months ahead.”

ION Leadership Programmes are delivered by Bangor University Business School in collaboration with Swansea University and are currently funded up to 70% by the ESF via WEFO.  The very final suite of part-funded Leading Business Growth programmes will take place over the coming months.

The ILM Level 3 New Leaders programme begins September 14, and the ILM Level 5 Leading Growth programme will run from November 30.

For more information and to sign up, visit the website: www.ionleadership.co.uk or email: ionleadership@bangor.ac.uk

NOTES: The ION Leadership programme is accredited by the Institute of Leadership and Management (ILM) and delivered by Bangor University and Swansea University with funding from the European Social Fund through Welsh Government. 

News

Recruiters step up job events to try and meet growing demand for candidates

RECRUITERS have ramped up the number of job events to plug gaps in demand for workers in hard-hit industries.

Bangor and Colwyn Bay-based Supertemps has organised and attended more employment exhibitions and workshops than ever before in a bid to help clients fill key roles in sectors including hospitality, IT, manufacturing, construction, social care, and landscaping and gardening.

The company – marking 42 years in business – received a positive response at the popular Digital Skills and Careers Expo held at M-SParc, Anglesey recently, and the inaugural Conwy Job Expo in Colwyn Bay.

Managing Director Sarah Ellwood revealed an increase in the number of bilingual members of their team also played a part in securing contracts across North Wales over past months.

“The market has been candidate-driven for some time now, but we’ve never experienced anything like this before,” said Sarah, who recently completed Cwrs Cymraeg Gwaith at Nant Gwrtheyrn on the Llyn Peninsula in a bid to sharpen her Welsh language skills.

“We held our own jobs fair in Caernarfon, have been at several other employment events and there are more in the pipeline as private and public sector organisations continue to work hard to match those looking for work with the many vacancies up for grabs in this area alone.

“As different sectors recover from the pandemic there are new opportunities, and employers are very aware they must adapt their offering to be more flexible, perhaps pay more than they would have previously and become a lot quicker in replying to avoid missing out.

“The landscape is turbulent but there are plenty of roles up for grabs so it’s pivotal we collaborate to build confidence and meet this demand as quickly as possible.”

Supertemps – and its S2 Recruitment arm – strengthened partnerships with leading employers over past weeks including Blind Veterans UK, Ambition North Wales and North Wales Fire and Rescue Service, all of which have positions available.

With Jayne Mckay Taylor, from Rhos-on-Sea, joining their ranks as a Senior Recruitment Consultant, focused on delivering high-volume contracts in myriad arenas, notably manufacturing and the public sector, the award-winning company is well-placed to continue growing throughout 2022.

“Recruitment is one of the biggest challenges out there for businesses right now, and that looks set to be the case in the months ahead,” added Sarah.

“We would encourage anyone needing support and guidance to get in touch, and to look out for upcoming job expos and events which showcase the many opportunities out there for people looking to re-educate, those considering a new career or for clients hoping to meet their ideal candidate.”

For more information, visit www.supertemps.co.uk and follow @supertempsltd for the latest news and information from Supertemps.

YouTube channel: https://www.youtube.com/channel/UCyDDc48hfPJTMq_4pyI3ZAQ

News

New Splash Pad and Mini Golf part of £500k vision to transform landmark

A £500,000 vision to transform facilities at a much-loved park has received a boost from a scheme driving post-pandemic economic recovery in Denbighshire.

The Enhance Llangollen Riverside Project is one of 14 initiatives to secure funding from Community Innovation Denbighshire via the UK Community Renewal Fund, matched by Clocaenog Forest Windfarm Fund and led by Cadwyn Clwyd.

Chair of Llangollen Parks Community Group Jessica Evans says the money will be used to commission a feasibility study centred on proposals including a new ‘splash pad’, landscaping, mini golf, renovations to the bandstand, interpretation boards and E-bike charging points.

She thanked Cadwyn Clwyd for their support and said the grant will go a long way to helping them realise their vision.

“As a group of parents and members of the community we became frustrated with the condition of the park and its facilities, some of which are tired and dated,” said Jessica.

“The feasibility study will allow us to look at different options, primarily new play equipment and what options are available, such as the costs and benefits of a splash pad.

“We no longer have any water play or a swimming pool in the area so that will form a big part of our proposals, which will be inclusive and environmentally friendly.”

She added: “The park has a high level of footfall and is a pivotal attraction in dire need of some TLC.

“The splash pad could cost up to £300,000 and the rest of the improvements more than £200,000 so this is a huge project, but very much needed.

“Our ultimate goal is to achieve funding so we can develop the park for the many people who come here every day, and to make it more worthy of its beautiful location.

“A huge thank you to Active Travel, Llangollen Town Council and the group members for their help throughout.”

Cadwyn Clwyd Manager Lowri Owain is delighted they’ve been able to help Llangollen Parks Community Group.

“This is a project that will future-proof the park and its facilities, attracting visitors and providing families with a sustainable, welcoming environment,” she said.

Cadwyn Clwyd’s Natural Resource Officer Sarah Jones added: “We have been able to support some brilliant community organisations and businesses with their ideas, and this is definitely one of them.

“I’m sure the study will support their fantastic plans and have a positive impact for years to come – we wish them every success.”

Community groups and social enterprises can also apply for funding support up to £20,000 for feasibility studies and pilot projects which could form the basis of bids needing further support from the UK Government’s Shared Prosperity fund when it launches later this year.

These can be centred around sustainability, green growth and innovations that help the local economy bounce back from the challenges of the Coronavirus.

Community Innovation Denbighshire also provides grants of up to £5,000 to enable businesses to innovate and trial new products, processes, and service delivery. 

For more information, email admin@cadwynclwyd.co.uk or visit the Cadwyn Clwyd website: www.cadwynclwyd.co.uk. Alternatively, call 01490 340500.

Follow the hashtag #UKCOMMUNITYRENEWALFUND on social media.

News

‘Wisdom Labs’ help prominent Welsh firms emerge from pandemic with confidence

‘WISDOM LABS’ are helping prominent North Wales businesses emerge from the pandemic in a position of strategic and emotional strength.

The sessions are led by Bangor University Business School and exclusive to alumni of the 20Twenty leadership programme, targeting firms in Wrexham, north Powys and Flintshire.

Pilot workshops have been held by Learning and Evaluation Manager Greg Parry with acclaimed companies on themes including Goals and Purpose, New Mindset – Emotional Control, and Your Individual Wellbeing Plan.

Among those to take part was Allington Hughes Solicitors, based in Chester, Wrexham and Llanrwst.

Managing Director Alison Stace said: “From the feedback we’ve received, staff found the course was very practicable in providing tools to help individuals address coping mechanisms, and isolation – it was made clear we are not alone and raised awareness of relevant issues.

“Learning what you can and can’t control was really helpful, and the ‘emotional wheel’ that formed part of the session is now used as a daily reference point – it was brilliant.”

More than 1,000 participants have joined 20Twenty programmes over the years; they now form a select group who can network with like-minded individuals, share their experiences, identify opportunities, and look at further ways to work together.

Next up is Llangollen-based AN Richards transport solutions, whose Company Secretary Johanna Cooke is a long-time supporter of the project.

“The Wisdom Lab network gives me a great opportunity to meet with like-minded business leaders to discuss the trials and tribulations of running your own organisation,” said Johanna.

“The sessions offered by 20Twenty give a topical insight into solutions for real life challenges and important time out from the day to day running of the business to share best practices and to listen to well considered presentations from leadership specialists – I would recommend them to anyone.”

20Twenty Business Development Manager Jackie Whittaker added: “We found there was an appetite among the many companies who have joined us – notably online during the pandemic – for further support and tailored guidance and advice.

“We are thrilled with the feedback to the pilot Wisdom Lab sessions and look forward to rolling them out further in the months ahead.”

The next CMI (Chartered Management Institute) Level 5-7 cohort of senior managers, owners, and directors begins in September.

Places are still available for the programmes – which are 80% funded by the European Social Fund (ESF) through Welsh Government.

For more information and to sign up, email j.whittaker@bangor.ac.uk or visit the website: www.20TwentyBusinessGrowth.com.

News

Leading lights in business and coaching to unite for inaugural Wellbeing Festival

LEADING lights in business, coaching and mindfulness will unite for a celebration of health and wellbeing.

The inaugural Wellbeing Mini Festival will be held at the Naylor Leyland Centre in Ruthin – home to Denbighshire Voluntary Services Council (DVSC) – on Wednesday June 29.

Among the speakers are The Empowered Parent Coach and Mentor, Polly O’Leary, Sian Golding, who launched Elysian Coaching gym in Rhyl during the pandemic, and Jamie Sheridan, an entrepreneur and founder of Straits Line, exploring proactive healthcare and how it can prolong working life.

A former primary school teacher, Polly will discuss how her outlook and career transformed dramatically following the birth of daughter, Mila.

Struggling with her own mental health, imposter syndrome and self-doubt, she used negativity as fuel for change and now delivers popular workshops and webinars, writes blogs and children’s books, and holds coaching sessions to help other mums and parents thrive and become the best possible version of themselves.

“My daughter was the catalyst for my own self-development journey,” said Polly, from Dwygyfylchi, near Conwy.

“I began to realise that to help her thrive in life, I was going to have to do some work on myself first, and things changed when I did.

“I look forward to sharing my story and the reason why I do what I do, the things I’ve learned along the way and hopefully some tips and guidance people will find useful.

“I work with mums in particular as that’s my lived experience, and I am passionate about children’s wellbeing, but as a mindset mentor it can be applied to anybody, especially parents who might want to look at their own confidence and self-development.

“Helping to empower them will have a massive impact on the next generation of children, so I’m looking forward to continuing on my journey and being a part of the Wellbeing Festival.”

Jamie, from Anglesey, is also hoping to make a difference to people’s lives via his work developing the ‘Ageing Curve’, a proactive health concept targeting 50-75 year olds in what is now being called the third quartile of ‘the 100-year life’.

“I’ve just turned 50 myself, and as I work in innovation and tech development with a healthcare background, healthy ageing is a really interesting space,” he said.

“With people living longer it’s more important than ever to look at life past 50. How will that time be spent? As well as the financial aspect to no longer working, how active and healthy will you be? Do you take time for yourself, as a couple, with friends or family? It’s a great conversation to have, especially here in North Wales with so many opportunities for living a healthy and fulfilling life.

“I personally don’t like the search for the ‘fountain of youth’ medical treatments but there have been vast technological advances and great innovations in age-tech that can support and enhance wellbeing.

“I look forward to exploring this further with those in attendance and am excited to be part of the event – I hope to see you there.”

Ali Carter, Enterprise, and Investment Manager for DVSC, added: “We are delighted to have such inspirational guest speakers lined up for our first Wellbeing Festival and have curated an interesting and relaxing evening of shared experience, talks and workshops that will I’m sure will be helpful and beneficial for people of all ages looking to improve and enhance their health and wellbeing.”

Visit www.dvsc.co.uk for more on the DVSC. Alternatively, follow them on Facebook at @DVSCDenbighshire, Instagram @DVSC_Denbighshire and Twitter @DVSC_Wales.

To register for the free event, visit Wellbeing Mini Festival at The Naylor Leyland Centre Tickets, Wed 29 Jun 2022 at 18:00 | Eventbrite

News

Prominent Anglesey accountant joins forces with leading name in the sector

A LONG-STANDING accountancy firm has joined forces with a leading name in the sector.

Lotti Summers Ltd in Beaumaris, Anglesey, is now part of Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants.

The move comes after Salisbury’s – based in St Asaph, Penmaenmawr and Ruthin – opened new offices in Menai Bridge.

Lotti grew up on the island and has spent more than 30 years in the industry; she and colleague Jess Massey are delighted to retain the company’s identity while uniting with the award-winning practice, led by Directors Aled Roberts, Jeremy Salisbury, and Jason Matischok.

“I look forward to this next chapter for the company and to being part of the team at Salisbury’s,” said Lotti.

“We have worked non-stop throughout the pandemic and have incredible clients, but this gives me the opportunity to find more of a work-life balance and spend time with my daughter, Naya.

“The Lotti Summers name will remain as the firm has been in Beaumaris for almost 20 years, so this is a platform to strengthen in partnership with Salisbury’s and grow together.”

She added: “We were so busy as a business we had to turn clients away so with extra resources we can be there for even more people and continue to deliver a first-class service.”

Aled says the collaboration is “a perfect fit at the perfect time” and is delighted to welcome them to the group.

“From an administrative perspective especially, we can lighten the load and focus on further expansion,” he added.

“Following the opening of our Menai Bridge office earlier this year the move demonstrates our commitment to North Wales and clients across the region.

“Our ethos is on development of staff and always trying to improve, and by increasing our footprint we can continue to provide clients with a high-quality offering that retains the personal touch.

“We are all excited for the future and looking forward to working together.”

With more staff set to join Salisbury’s Chartered Accountants, their workforce will be more than 35-strong by the autumn.

Jason said: “This new partnership with Lotti Summer reinforces our focus on finding the right people who fit with our culture and developing in tandem.”

Jeremy added: “We are thrilled to have Lotti and Jess on board and wish them every success for the future.

“They are a fantastic addition to the team and join us at a pivotal time for the company and the industry.”

For more information, visit the website www.salisburys.com or follow @salisburysuk on social media.