Category Archives: Business

Accounts and Accountancy, Business, Economy & Jobs News, Finance News

Leverage Expertise of Accountants to Drive Economic Growth

Reform needed across multiple areas of the UK business ecosystem, led by experts, to drive stable and sustained growth.

 

In ‘Accounting for a better world: An ACCA policy prospectus for the UK’, ACCA sets out clear goals and aims which will help the UK strengthen its position on sustainable business, global trade, AI, and talent retention. Key areas for policy reform are also addressed, including improvements to tax systems, audit, corporate governance, and the public sector.

Highlighting the importance of trusted, forward-thinking regulations and institutions to capitalising on the UK’s growth potential, ACCA calls for urgent reform to the corporate governance landscape, including kickstarting the stalled audit reform process, as well as restoring trust in HMRC.

ACCA lays out a plan covering the following five areas:

  1. Creating a thriving economy in a changing world by supporting business and expanding international trade
  2. Promoting a sustainable and just transition to a new way of doing business that delivers a better world through adoption of international standards
  3. Creating a framework for growth, nurturing a transparent and trustworthy business ecosystem by reforming corporate governance, audit, tax, and public services
  4. Promoting the ethical and responsible use of AI in a safe and transparent environment by developing world leading government legislation
  5. Supporting the development of an ethically motivated, expertly trained, educated accountancy profession to deliver robust business practice and a robust economy

ACCA also supports addressing ongoing late payment issues, mutual recognition of professional qualifications between countries, the introduction of a Skills Tax Credit Pilot, simplification of the UK tax system, and adopting the International Sustainability Standards Board (ISSB) into UK law.

 

Helen Brand, chief executive, ACCA, said: “There is much we can accomplish together when the UK seeks to champion business in an era which is changing forever how businesses operate; how they judge success, and how they measure long-term value. Accountants work in strategically important high-value roles, bringing a breadth of vision and expertise to government, financial institutions, businesses, the public sector and public practice.

“The future of thriving international trade; of sustainable economic growth which benefits all; and of harmonious commercial relations between the UK and rest of world, depends entirely on the strength of a healthy finance profession – with dedicated people who are devoted to the public good. ACCA’s contribution will continue to give the UK – and the world – the accountancy profession it needs.”

Lloyd Powell, Head of ACCA Cymru/Wales, said: “In order to grow and thrive, the UK must look at effective ways of working and doing business that will lead to greater prosperity for the country. The five points set out by ACCA are designed to give a holistic approach to the way in which accountants can assist in improving UK business. As such a diverse profession with a highly strategic skillset, accountants are often well placed to help businesses achieve these aims and can provide valuable analytical and data-driven insights to guide from the ground up – in businesses, accountancy practices, and in influencing wider policy.”

Calling on UK policymakers such as MPs, government officials and agencies, as well as business advisers, financial institutions, public sector bodies and accountancy practices, ACCA lays out a firm foundation for the UK economy.

The full policy prospectus can be found here which expands on each of the five points in more detail.

Visit ACCA’s website for more information.

Business, FInance

Pawsome Paws Boutique appoints Pink Pig Financial

Pawsome Paws Boutique, has appointed Pink Pig Financials, the multi-award winning accountancy firm, to lead the business into the next stage of growth.

Pink Pig Financials will work alongside the family-led team at Pawsome Paws Boutique to manage their finance function. In-line with the Pink Pig Financials way, support won’t be limited to just helping with ongoing accounts, daily bookkeeping, payroll and budgeting, but will also provide top-level strategic advice which will enable the business to move forward into its next phase of national growth. 

Pink Pig Financials provides finance support for Limited Companies of all shapes and sizes. With a top line view of their clients’ businesses through management accounts, the team is also able to provide additional strategic support to enable their clients to grow their business in the right way, with the right financials in place to ensure growth and stability.

Jay Chesman, Managing Director, Pawsome Paws Boutique, said: “We wanted to have an accountancy partner who took a more proactive approach to our finance function. Pawsome Paws Boutique has grown exponentially and we are now at the stage of our business where we need top-level strategic advice around our finances to take our business forward to the next stage with confidence. We look forward to working alongside the Pink Pig Financials team to achieve this.”

Cheryl Sharp, CEO and Founder, Pink Pig Financials, said: “Providing businesses with top level business support at all stages of their journey is part of our ethos. Having an overview of the numbers, along with our extensive business expertise, means we can offer our clients so much more than just an accounting service. We become extensions of our client’s team and we want them to succeed as much as they do. We look forward to working with the Pawsome Paws Boutique as they embark on this exciting new chapter.”

About Pink Pig Financials

Founded in 2014, by Cheryl Sharp, Pink Pig Financials provides a different approach to accounting for companies. From daily bookkeeping, accounts, tax returns, budget support and payroll through to providing strategic advice, the expert team helps clients expand, contract, diversify and become more resilient.

Art, Business, Cardiff, Diversity & Inclusion, Events, Food and Drink, Hospitality

Live art and LGBTQ+ portraits for Pride at The Red Dragon Centre

CARDIFF Bay’s leading entertainment venue, The Red Dragon Centre, has teamed up with Welsh artist Nathan Wyburn to mark Pride month with a unique art installation and charity auction.

Nathan is a proud spokesperson for LGBTQ+ equality and often uses his art to reflect this. Specialising in creating pieces out of non-traditional mediums, Nathan was a semi-finalist on Britain’s Got Talent in 2011, and has also appeared on The Kelly Clarkson Show, This Morning and Good Morning America.

The showcase will be displayed from 31 May – 30 June, and will feature influential figures such as Cara Delevingne, Kit Connor and Elliott Page. Joining the lineup will be The Red Dragon Centre’s resident Capital Drive presenters, Josh and Kally, whose portraits will be made up of photographs sent in by listeners to celebrate 25 years of Pride in Wales.

The Welsh artist will also be appearing at the Centre for pop-up live art shows where he will create some iconic LGBTQ+ celebrities at the Centre, with ten portraits of his existing artwork being displayed in the Centre’s showcase.

An online auction will take place at the close of the showcase for Nathan’s portraits of George Michael made out of WHAM bars, and Ncuti Gatwa in a Doctor Who collage. The winning bids will be donated to Pride Cymru.

Nathan said: “I am delighted to be teaming up with The Red Dragon Centre’s Pride celebrations, and getting the chance to showcase some of most beloved LGBTQ+ figures out there. Co-in siding with the 25th anniversary of Pride in Wales makes this all the more special, and shows how important it is to continue to celebrate Pride month, and strive towards promoting LGBTQ+ equality in Wales, and beyond.”

Emma Constantinou, Marketing Manager at The Red Dragon Centre, said: “Pride is a wonderful and important month, and we feel very fortunate to be able to host our own celebrations at The Red Dragon Centre for another year. We are very grateful to Nathan for his support and generosity of offering his work to the auction, we hope visitors enjoy spotting their favourite figures at the showcase inside the Centre.

“This month is a fantastic opportunity to learn more about the LGBT+ community with our showcase, and two lucky bidders can walk away with a unique portrait from Nathan, knowing that all money raised will be going straight to charity.”

The Red Dragon Centre is home to a multitude of interactive, lifestyle and food and drink venues including Odeon Cinema, the home of Wales’ only IMAX screen, and the Hollywood Bowl which have been key Centre attractions since the beginning.

The Centre hosts a range of additional brands that make up an intrinsic part of the entertainment and dining experience, including Grosvenor Casino, Five Guys, Spice Route, Volcano, EasyThali and Zaika.

The Centre is also the site of the Capital FM South Wales studio, which was formerly Red Dragon FM, as well as Heart FM. Today, you’ll find the likes of Josh and Kally broadcasting their Capital Drive Show live from there every weekday.

Business, Employee Experience, Training

New appointments at IT firm Mintivo will strengthen internal operation and culture – and boost bid for B Corp status

TWO key appointments at Wiltshire IT services and solutions company Mintivo will help it maintain its six years of growth, says Managing Director Alex Jukes.

Operations Director Mark Adams’ move into the role of People and Culture Director, with Service Director Jason Lovell taking on the Operations Director role, comes as the company celebrates winning a major contract with the MoD.

Mr Adams, who has been with the company since its formation, said his new role is geared towards building on Mintivo’s reputation as an attractive place to work. His other priority will be steering the company, which has 30 staff, to B Corp certification.

He said: “Our priority is to focus on our people because taking care of our staff ensures they take care of us. Ultimately, a satisfied workforce delivers outstanding customer service. We need to align their career paths with both our growth and their personal development.

“Through our Mintivo Academy we fund training and exam fees, give staff time away from their day job to train and support them through that journey. Quite a few the technical staff have left their job and come to us with the training and development being one of the factors that swayed them.”

As part of the B Corp accreditation the company is focusing on its corporate social responsibility, including introducing paid staff volunteering days, and strengthening its relationship with Wiltshire Air Ambulance, which is its chosen charity and is also now a customer.

“Everyone who’s ever walked through the door here knows that Mark is very passionate about people and development,” said Mr Jukes. “What we’ve realised is that it’s a key asset for us as a business and it’s very difficult to find people like Mark who has such a focus on it.

“He’s always been incredibly committed to fostering a positive culture around the organisation and has always been a good sounding board.”

Mr Lovell will oversee the day to day running of the business and is being tasked with a review of the company’s internal processes. He said his experience of managing service operations in large corporate firms will help ensure the company’s operation keeps pace with its growth.

“I want to continue to develop the way we work so that it aligns with the expectations of more enterprise-sized customers, including entities like defence and the public sector,” he said. “I want to see our various departments collaborate and support each other, working together to achieve our goals.

“As part of that I will be building a senior leadership team to report into me operationally – service, projects, technical operations – we want a cohesive team that is able to work closely together and lean on one other.”

Mr Jukes said: “Jason has shown incredible leadership capabilities in our service delivery and technical functions and moving him into this role will give him more of a holistic view of all the other areas of the business.

“We’ve invested heavily into our systems development for ticket management and monitoring, automation and things of that nature so he’s going to be monitoring that investment and identifying other areas of efficiencies.”

Mr Lovell said the two-year contract with MoD Corsham is a game-changed for the company. “It’s a really exciting opportunity for us and also for the staff we have working on it. It’s a hell of a thing to have on your CV,” he said.

“It’s a massive game-changer for us and it’s fantastic to be able to grow in that sector. It means we’re doing all the right things at Mintivo. This area of the MoD is hard to get into but now our name’s in there and as we become known as a defence supplier, we will get that name recognition and experience.”

Find out more about the company’s services at mintivo.co.uk.

 

Pictured: Mintivo’s new People and Culture Director Mark Adams, left, with Managing Director Alex Jukes and new Operations Director Jason Lovell

Business

How to launch and expand a business in the ‘land of opportunity’ – five tips on US business growth from ECI’s Brett Pentz

As markets become more global, and with the US economy experiencing strong GDP annualised growth of 3.3% in 2023, many UK businesses looking to expand internationally will be tempted to look to the ‘land of opportunity.’ However, scaling into the US is no easy feat, with regulations and access to talent across 50 states creating different challenges.

ECI has helped many UK-based businesses achieve international success. With 77% of its portfolio companies pursuing international growth since 2016, the company understands the business challenges of expansion, particularly in the US. The company’s North America Growth Specialist, Brett Pentz, helps portfolio companies with their M&A and business growth ambitions across the US and Canada. He comments: “About half of the portfolio companies I work with are currently looking at the US as a growth opportunity, while the other half are already here. Expansion in the US has become more common over recent years as the dynamics in the US have been more compelling than other European nations. It has experienced less market volatility than Europe, and its GDP results show that the US has got back to growth more quickly. There’s a real opportunity for UK companies to take advantage of that.”

Pentz provides the following five tips on how to launch and expand a business in the US, while avoiding expensive and time-consuming pitfalls:

Analyse the US opportunity before you start

One of the most useful exercises we do with management teams is an overall analysis of the US market opportunity – given it’s such a massive end market, it’s always going to look compelling. The challenge is in how you start to segment that market in a way that’s meaningful for an entry or expansion strategy. For example, when deciding where to open your first US office, you need to consider proximity to customers, ease of access from UK head office, and your ability to recruit talent.

Determine how to best serve opportunities in the US

Timing is everything. Many UK businesses establish strong leadership positions in their home market and see the US as a natural next step. Early wins from the UK validate the potential, but scaling that success in the US requires careful planning. Before diving headfirst into incorporating, registering, hiring and engaging a whole range of professional services, we encourage businesses to consider if a US office is really necessary at this stage of their growth. Other options to consider include:

  • A virtual presence: use a virtual US office address and phone number for meetings / sales calls and focus efforts on expanding US digital marketing and partnerships.
  • Contracted support: Engage independent consultants or B2B sales providers to test the waters and validate the need for dedicated US based sales resources.
  • Employer of Record (EOR): Partner with an EOR to add the first few US-based sales reps without the hassle of incorporating yourself.

Identify the right time to open a US office
While virtual setups and external support can pave the way, once your customer base has grown to a scale that it can no longer be supported by UK-based account management or customer service, it’s a clear sign a physical presence is needed. A US office offers several benefits:

  • Market commitment: Signals your dedication to the US market and attracts potential customers.
  • Talent acquisition: Enables you to recruit and hire US-based employees more effectively.
  • Market intelligence: Provides on-the-ground insights for localised digital marketing and partnerships.
  • Business development: Increases your presence at industry events and outreach activities.
  • Customer proximity: Offers better support for your growing US customer base.

Be purposeful in identifying a US leader

It’s crucial to invest in the right leader. We see many companies looking to move people over from the ‘mothership’ to the US to make sure that the company culture is instilled and that there’s consistency between the two locations.  For example, MiQ co-founder Gurman Hundal spent three years in the US establishing its operation and leadership. In contrast, Moneypenny had a regular commitment to senior teams going over for extended periods.  This helps ensure integration and brings the US and UK cultures together. However, this may not be a long-term solution, so you should consider the following questions if bringing in a recruiter to find a permanent leader:

·        If using a UK search firm, find out about their US coverage, networks, and resources. How will those in-market capabilities be deployed? If limited, how will they build a strong candidate list? Don’t select a known entity if they don’t have access to the right people.

·        If you choose a US search firm, make sure that as an international client, you’ll be given the same priority as a local client. Your UK leadership team may need to meet them and build a face-to-face relationship, especially as you look to scale US operations.

·        Remember that recruitment contract terms may differ between UK and US firms. It’s likely that a US firm may charge more, and payment terms may be based on the passage of time (e.g., billed monthly) rather than deliverables-based (e.g., delivery of long list, final appointment, etc.).

·        Look for a candidate who is not only aligned with your company culture, but also understands how to reinforce that culture to US norms.

·        Choose someone who can work well within an executive team despite geographical and time differences. Trust is always important, but there needs to be stronger trust than usual as regular monitoring is difficult. Prioritise someone who is an excellent communicator and willing to travel between the US and UK frequently to build that trust.

·        Finally, it also helps to find candidates excited about a cross-border role. They need to like international travel, and they need a good understanding and appreciation for the differences that exist between the US and UK markets – for their employees and for their clients.

Learn from experience

A cross-cultural perspective can be helpful. For example, at CPOMS and Moneypenny, we made sure to quickly understand how their solutions would apply across the different geographies with their various regulatory frameworks and customer demand drivers. It really helps to work with hires or advisors with experience on the ground in the US, who understand how to deliver on these exceptional growth opportunities for UK-based businesses..”

 

 

About ECI 

ECI is a leading private equity investor, focussed on offering collaborative support to management teams. We pride ourselves on being straightforward to deal with, we help where we believe we can add value, and we work in absolute alignment with management teams. This is how we’ve delivered such exceptional results for over 45 years.

We manage funds of over £2bn and invest in growth businesses valued up to £300m, investing as either a majority or a minority investor. Our growth focus is integral to how we’ve built our team. We’ve created the capability to support management teams on anything from sourcing and executing acquisitions, developing market entry strategies, understanding and improving employee engagement, or ensuring your tech platform can scale as quickly as you are, and much more. Our whole team is committed to doing what we can for the teams we partner with.

ECI has helped companies such as CPOMS, a provider of cloud-based safeguarding solutions, MiQ a leading programmatic media partner for marketers and agencies and Moneypenny, a leader in global outsourced communications, to develop and expand in the US.

Get in touch to find out more about the fantastic people we’ve invested in and how ECI could support you to achieve your ambitions.

www.ecipartners.com

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/

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.

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.”