C&W November 2025

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Dear Chamber Member,

This is my final C&W In Business column of 2025 – and it’s left me asking where the year has gone.

It is fair to say it has been a busy one here at the Chamber and there is no let up between now and the end of the year.

We held our inaugural Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards back in the spring and surpassed all of our wildest expectations when we were first planning the event 18 months ago.

Time is running out to enter the 2026 awards so I’d encourage you to take a look on our website and make sure you put yourselves forward in one of the categories. We’ve got amazing businesses and community organisations, doing incredible work

From Trump’s tariffs through to the cyber-attack on JLR, we have provided a voice for you at a local, regional and national level and that is something we will build on in 2026.

On that front, we have listened to your concerns when it comes to the Budget later this month and have – alongside our colleagues at the British Chambers of Commerce – appealed to the Chancellor to refrain from increasing the cost of doing business.

We’re also looking very closely at the Employment Rights Bill and I believe there will be a lot to do in the New Year to start preparing members for this because it is the most significant piece of legislation to affect businesses in decades.

Over the coming weeks and months,

and education professionals in order to facilitate greater co-operation across Coventry and Warwickshire and stepping into the role of the now defunct CWLEP.

So, it’s been busy!

And it doesn’t stop there. Our Annual Business and Economic Conference takes place at the IXL Events Centre on November 14 and once again includes a great line-up of speakers and panels. It will be Steve Harcourt’s final event as president and I would like to place on record my thanks to him for being such an energetic and passionate ambassador for the Chamber and the region during his time in the role.

We’ve gone about recruiting our next president in a different way this time and we’ll be announcing who that is – plus a separate chair of our board – in the

The official publication of the Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

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C&W in Business is produced on behalf of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce by Benham Publishing Limited and is distributed to members free of charge. Although every effort is made to ensure the accuracy of information contained in C&W in Business, neither Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, nor the publisher can accept responsibility for any omissions or inaccuracies it contains. The views expressed in this publication are not necessarily those of the Chamber.

Help is at hand for Warwickshire firms

Individuals looking to set up their own businesses, and existing companies who are looking for help to survive and grow can continue to tap into a range of free support programmes in Warwickshire, after being extended for another year.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce is delivering three different packages of support on behalf of Warwickshire County Council through the Business Growth Warwickshire Programme; Start Up Business Support, Business Resilience and Growth Support and Project Warwickshire – Tourism, Leisure and Hospitality Business Support.

Since October 2023, the Chamber has engaged with well over 1,000 businesses, directly helping 190 start-ups and 160 established businesses by delivering each of them 12-hour business support per output between October 2023 to March 2025.

During that time, 20.6 FTE jobs have been created and 296 FTE Jobs Safeguarded. Additionally, 269 clients have improved productivity; 242 have opened up new markets; 80 are now export-ready thanks to the support.

The programmes are funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council.

Responsibility for the planning and delivery of UKSPF was part of the Level 2 Devolution Deal secured by Warwickshire County Council in 2024.

The success and continued funding from UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, allowed Warwickshire County Council to extend the services, allowing even more businesses to benefit.

The Chamber continues to help budding entrepreneurs to establish their new ventures for businesses less than two years of registering through the Warwickshire Business Start-Up Programme.

Clients on the programme can access one-toone business coaching as well as access to a range of workshops that cover the fundamentals of doing business – from planning to marketing.

The Warwickshire Business Resilience and Growth Programme supports established businesses in a range of ways to help them to grow, from diversifying to finding new markets at home and abroad.

The programme offers one-to-one business coaching and can help with financial management, sales and marketing, productivity, identifying grants and funding, as well as signposting to further help.

The third programme – Project Warwickshire – is aimed at helping the county’s tourism, leisure and hospitality sector to thrive.

It helps businesses through one-to-one business coaching, workshops and networking & connectivity in areas such as marketing strategy, SEO, recruitment and retention as well as business planning.

Sarah Humphreys, Business Support Manager at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are thrilled to continue delivering free support programmes for businesses across Warwickshire.

“Our team of advisers – who have either run their own businesses or developed skills and experience to support in a range of ways – are on hand to offer tailored help to companies to meet their own needs, depending on what stage they are at.

“We’ve helped everything from florists to fitness businesses and from vets to vineyards – and the feedback we received has been extremely positive.

“So, I would encourage businesses across Warwickshire to get in touch to find out more about how we can support them.”

Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “We’re delighted that the Business Growth Warwickshire Programme will continue for another year. The support has proven invaluable to Warwickshire’s businesses and has helped to create and safeguard jobs within the county.

“I look forward to seeing the continued support businesses will receive from the range of programmes and the impact this will have for our local businesses.”

Marketing agency has designs on further growth

A Nuneaton marketing agency has taken on its first member of staff and is on a path to further growth after reaching out for support.

Luke Jones left his job of 12 years with a local manufacturing business at the height of the Covid-19 pandemic and set up LAJ Marketing.

During his time with the company, he’d studied business and marketing at the Open University over a five-year period and as well as gaining theoretical knowledge, he picked up practical, on-the-job insight as he rose to be sales and marketing manager.

He also realised very few marketing agencies were tailored to small and medium-sized businesses so, as Covid restrictions lifted, he decided he would set up on his own to fill the gap in the market.

The business quickly gained momentum and while the success was positive news, it left Luke focussed fully on delivery for clients, with little time to plan.

He got in touch with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to ask for help and found out he was eligible for free support.

Luke was assigned to Jason Barnes as a business adviser through the Warwickshire Business Resilience and Growth Business Support programme. It is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council.

Jason offered one-to-one support and helped Luke to lay out all of the demands on his time to better understand if it was the right moment to take on a member of staff.

The work with Jason helped Luke to make a plan for the future

and come to the conclusion that bringing in an apprentice would support the next phase of growth.

Luke said: “The fact we went from one client to dozens very quickly was really good news for the business when I was just starting out.

“But, suddenly, all of my time was being taken up and it was starting to become a bit too much. I’d worked with the Chamber previously so decided to ask if they could help me and, thankfully, there was support available.

“Working with Jason was exactly what I needed. He’d run a business himself so understood where I was coming from. He knew what we needed to consider and what the next steps might be.

“You’re on your own a little bit when you first start up so having someone to bounce ideas off and formulate a plan with was just what I needed. I’d definitely urge others in my shoes to ask for support.”

In June, Luke took on Jade Leavesley as an apprentice. She supports with content creation for clients, leaving Luke the chance to work more strategically and also work on the business.

He’s now looking to add further staff in the coming years with a laser focus on continuing to support the SME market with a full suite of marketing services, which include graphic design, web design, e-mail marketing and social media content.

Jason said: “It was great to work with Luke on a one-to-one basis. So many owner-managed, one-person businesses hit the same kind of wall when they first start out –there’s not enough of them to go round if they grow quickly.

“Equally, taking on a member of staff feels like a big risk. So, we

looked at a 12-month plan in terms of planned growth and how that looks in relation to an increase in clients, but also in terms of finances and the requirement to service new clients to the high standards that Luke offers.

“I am so pleased to see how well it is working which ultimately means more growth and additional staff going forward.”

Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “We want to support Warwickshire’s businesses to grow and the Business Resilience and Growth programme is a great resource for local businesses allowing them to receive tailored and practical advice.

“This impact is shown through the support provided to Luke, helping him to grow is marketing business. Through the Business Resilience and Growth programme he received bespoke advice based on his current business and his future goals, resulting in adding an apprentice to his workforce and looking to continually grow his staff over the coming years.”

Councillor Nicky King, Portfolio Holder for Business and

Regeneration at Nuneaton and Bedworth Borough Council, said: “I wish Luke every success with his business, LAJ Marketing. The support that he has had is a wonderful step in his business journey. We are delighted that the business support currently on offer makes our borough a better place to do business.

“Working together with our businesses, and partners is a vital to the improvement of the lives of the people and communities we serve.”

Warwickshire Business Resilience and Growth Business Support forms part of the Business Growth Warwickshire Business Support programme. The programme is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council. Responsibility for the planning and delivery of UKSPF was part of the Level 2 Devolution Deal secured by Warwickshire County Council in 2024. Warwickshire’s allocation of UKSPF is supporting a package of communities & place, business support, and people & skills activities in 2025/26.

Business Support

Second office for solicitors

A south Warwickshire firm of solicitors has opened a second office in the region – and is already planning a third as part of its growth plans.

Hall Reynolds LLP, which has an office fronting High Street in Bidford-on-Avon, has expanded into Stratford town centre after receiving business support that helped the company to set out its strategy for expansion.

The company, which was established in the 1980s by David Hall, employs ten people –including two apprentices – and is adding an eleventh member of the team shortly.

It offers a whole range of legal services from residential and commercial property through to wills and probate.

And if the business – which is now run by Katy Taylor and Conchi Palacios, with David acting as a consultant – stays on the same course for growth, there are plans to add a further office in another Warwickshire town.

Hall Reynolds LLP was given one-to-one help by business adviser Jason Barnes through the Business Resilience and Growth programme.

Warwickshire Business Resilience and Growth Business Support forms part of the Business Growth Warwickshire programme. Business Resilience and Growth Business Support is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council.

Jason listened to Katy and Conchi’s plans and helped to cement them into a business strategy, which included a marketing plan for the company.

Since receiving the support, which also included a series of workshops, Hall Reynolds LLP has seen a marked increase in business.

Katy said: “We’d grown organically and had ideas on what we wanted to do next, but working with Jason and the Chamber really helped us to get that down in a plan. From there, we had the confidence to do it.

“Part of that growth was opening an office in Stratford, which we’ve now done in Elizabeth Court, and adding more people to the team.

“We’d always focussed on word of mouth for new business but Jason made us look at our marketing differently. We have now got the messaging right about what we offer, the service we provide and the people we are trying to reach.

“We’ve seen a real increase in enquiries on the back of that and if we continue to grow, we would like to take on more apprentices when our current two qualify.

“We are also considering a third office too because whilst so much work can be done digitally these days, we are big believers in dealing face-to-face with people – especially in a sector where trust is so important.

“We are really happy that we engaged with this support, and it has opened our eyes up to other networks too, which can help us to grow further.”

Jason Barnes, business adviser with the Chamber, said: “It was important to listen to the plans that Katy, Conchi and the team had and to see what kind of support they would need to get to the next level.

“We’ve helped to create a plan for next phase of expansion and have offered insights on how they could market themselves in a more strategic way which has helped to ensure that they are already making positive strides when it comes to growth.”

Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said:

“The tailored support provided through the Business Resilience and Growth Programme has helped Hall Reynolds LLP to set out their direction of growth and identify how this can be achieved. The one-to-one support allows the advisors to fully understand the business and their needs meaning they can provide practical advice and learning opportunities to support the business’s objectives.”

Councillor George Cowcher, Portfolio Holder for Economic Development at Stratford-on-Avon District Council, said:

“It is excellent to see a growing professional

services company expanding across the District and taking advantage of professional business advice.”

The Business Resilience and Growth Business Support programme is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council. Responsibility for the planning and delivery of UKSPF was part of the Level 2 Devolution Deal secured by Warwickshire County Council in 2024. Warwickshire’s allocation of UKSPF is supporting a package of communities & place, business support, and people & skills activities in 2025/26.

Vineyard toasts success – and support!

A vineyard in North Warwickshire is raising a glass to a regional business support programme that has helped it to grow – in more ways than one!

Blabers Hall Wine Estate was established by Adele and Clarke Adams when they planted their first grapes at their home in Fillongley.

They initially bought the property to be their family home in 2013 but decided to grow grapes – initially to sell the fruit itself – in 2016 when they planted 9,500 vines before pivoting to become one of a handful of wine vineyards in the region.

Their first harvest was in 2018 and they have since gone on to produce tens of thousands of bottles of wine – including white, red, rose and sparkling – selling directly to consumers and into local hospitality venues, as well as partnering with other local producers.

They can produce anything from 3,000 to 25,000 bottles per year depending on the harvest.

In order to get to their next phase of growth, Adele got in touch with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce to ask for support and was assigned to Russell Grant as a business adviser through Project Warwickshire Business Support.

Project Warwickshire forms part of the Business Growth Warwickshire programme. It is delivered by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce on behalf of Warwickshire County Council. The programme is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council.

Russell worked with the vineyard to help establish long-term business plans and a marketing strategy to grow its customer base.

Part of that was starting to attend more networking events in the region to raise awareness of the vineyard in North Warwickshire.

The vineyard’s marketing plan has become more extensive while it has also begun targeting corporate clients as well as running wine-tasting and craft events at the vineyard which have grown in popularity.

Following the support, Blabers saw 55 per cent increase in business from 2023 to end of 2024, with further growth anticipated in 2025.

Adele said: “This was initially going to be our family home. Clarke was running his construction business and I was working in the local school.

“But I gave that up when we decided to turn some of the land into a vineyard – I’ve gone from knowing very little about it to understanding what kind of soil works best for grapes!

“I’m also keeping a constant eye on the weather because it’s absolutely key to whether it’s a successful year or not!

“It came to a point where we wanted to make longer term plans for the vineyard as a business and needed to grow our presence.

“Russell has been a massive help in understanding what we do and where we might be able to grow. We’ve joined more networks and are tapping into more hotels in the area.

“We’ve also started to market ourselves as a tourist attraction through Destination Coventry, West Midlands

Growth Company and Visit Britain, which is something we can definitely build on.”

Russell said: “Adele and Clarke have had to develop knowledge of how to run a vineyard and what leads to the creation of great wines but that’s different to the business side of things.

“We’ve helped to refine the business plans, improve processes and develop marketing plans to reach a wider customer base. It’s great to see that the support is working and that is something that should be toasted!”

Councillor Rob Howard, Portfolio Holder for Economy at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Project Warwickshire offers a range of support to Warwickshire’s businesses within the tourism, hospitality and leisure industries. It’s great to see the support provided to Blabers Hall Wine Estate and how this has helped towards their business growth.

“Support from Project Warwickshire has supported Adele and Clarke to expand upon their marketing plan and secure a strategy in order to achieve their objectives, helping them to build a wider network and access new routes to customers.”

David Wright, Leader of North Warwickshire Borough Council, said: "Blabers Hall Wine Estate is a shining example of how entrepreneurial spirit and rural innovation can thrive in North Warwickshire. We're delighted to see how Adele and Clarke have grown their vineyard into not only a successful business but also a local attraction that contributes to our visitor economy. Supporting businesses like this, through partnerships and programmes such as Project Warwickshire, is central to our vision for a vibrant and sustainable local economy.”

Project Warwickshire Business Support for Tourism, Leisure, Retail and Hospitality SMEs is funded by UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund and Warwickshire County Council. Responsibility for the planning and delivery of UKSPF was part of the Level 2 Devolution Deal secured by Warwickshire County Council in 2024. Warwickshire’s allocation of UKSPF is supporting a package of communities & place, business support, and people & skills activities in 2025/26.

All eyes on the prize as awards go live!

Businesses, individuals and community groups can now put themselves forward for a major regional award as entry forms have gone live.

The Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards 2026 were launched at a special event at the Belgrade Theatre in Coventry and entries will remain open until Friday, November 28.

The awards, presented by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, attracted hundreds of entries in their first year and the celebration event was enjoyed by more than 600 people from business, civic life and the wider community. This year’s categories are:

• The People First - Commitment to Workforce Award

• The Global Player – Export Business of the Year Award

• The Planet Saver – Green Business of the Year Award

• The Rapid Riser – Start-up or Scale-up Business of the Year Award

• The Problem Solver – Business Diversification Award

• The Equality Trailblazer – EEDI Business of the Year Award

• The Community Champion –Community Business of the Year Award

• The Not-For-Profit Champion –Community Organisation of the Year Award

• The Creative and Culture Activator –Creative and Cultural Award

• The Inspirational Individual – C&W Businessperson of the Year Award and Community Person of the Year Award

The Awards Celebration Evening will take place on Thursday, April 23 at the Belgrade Theatre and will, once again, be a showcase of everything that is great about Coventry and Warwickshire – including culture, entertainment, food and the handing out of the awards.

Four high profile sponsors have already been secured in Coventry Building Society, Genesis Employment, Lawton Tubes and omnigo - a trusted partner of card payment company Dojo, with further sponsorship opportunities are available.

Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are so excited to do this all again.

“When we decided to put on an awards show that was different earlier this year

we knew we were taking a risk because we were going against the grain of your ‘ordinary’ awards night.

“But it was such a fantastic event with an amazing buzz in the room and so much positive feedback that we knew we were onto a winner. Other Chambers even got in touch straight away to say they were thinking of doing the same!

“So, my advice to businesses, community groups and individuals across Coventry and Warwickshire is to get your entry in and be part of a fantastic occasion and, if you win, you can shout about an incredible achievement too.”

Laura Elliot, CEO of the Belgrade Theatre, said: “We are really pleased to be partnering, once again, with the Chamber on this fantastic event. It was an honour to be able to host so many people and businesses from across Coventry and Warwickshire at this year’s inaugural Awards, and we can’t wait to do it all over again next year.

“I’ve no doubt it will be a fantastic celebration of all the incredible work that goes on in our region, and we look forward to welcoming everyone back to the Belgrade.”

https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/awards/ categories/

Pass or Fail? How to Make Probation Periods Actually Work

Probationary periods are designed to give both employer and employee time to confirm that the fit is right. Yet for many businesses, they’re little more than a line in the contract and a quick chat six months later.

In reality, a poorly managed probation is one of the biggest missed opportunities in a business. It can make or break a new hire, shape workplace culture, and prevent costly exits. And with upcoming Employment Rights Bill reforms expanding employee protections, how you handle probation is about to matter more than ever.

The Purpose of Probation

Probation isn’t just a “try-before-you-buy” exercise. It’s about giving new employees structure, feedback, and clarity so they can succeed. It’s also your best chance to spot issues early, from performance gaps to mismatched expectations, before they become formal problems later. When managed well, probation builds confidence and engagement. When managed badly, it breeds confusion, frustration, and legal risk.

The Common Pitfalls

At Breedon Consulting, we see the same mistakes time and again:

• No clarity from day one: The employee isn’t told what success looks like.

• No mid-point review: Problems surface too late to fix.

• No evidence: Decisions to extend or fail probation lack supporting notes or feedback.

• No follow-up: The period lapses, and the employee passes by default.

Each mistake weakens your position, both in managing performance and in protecting the business if things don’t work out.

Making Probation Work for You

A good probation process doesn’t need to be complicated, it needs to be consistent.

1. Set expectations early.

Explain objectives, behaviours, and key milestones from the start.

2. Hold a mid-point review.

Check in halfway, give honest feedback, and agree on what needs improvement.

3. Document and decide.

Confirm outcomes in writing — whether passing, extending, or ending probation — to keep things fair and transparent.

Done well, these steps build trust and accountability. Employees feel supported, managers stay in control, and the business avoids unnecessary risk.

Looking Ahead

With employment law tightening over the next two years — including extended dismissal protections and greater emphasis on fair process, probation periods will face more scrutiny.

The message is clear: probation isn’t protection anymore. It’s a vital part of your people strategy.

Final Thoughts

Probation is your first real test of effective people management. Get it right, and you set the tone for performance, engagement, and retention. Get it wrong, and you risk costly claims and preventable exits.

If you’re unsure whether your probation process meets modern standards, now’s the time to review it.

At Breedon Consulting, we help businesses take the stress out of HR , from drafting robust probation policies to training managers

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We’ve been in your shoes, so we understand the struggle of finding a flexible and approachable solution to your HR management. Breedon was built on this understanding and to put it simply –we are real people who you can rely on.

Our HR service offers SMEs with the same level of service you would receive if you had a large corporate HR department behind you – but as and when you need it, tailored to your business with cost effective solutions.

Why Choose Breedon?

• We are EXPERTS in all things HR related

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We want to know your needs exactly so that we can provide the perfect solution. Let us know what you want and we’ll do our best to help.

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As a Gold Partner of Breathe, we truly believe they are the best on the market. Easy-to-use HR software designed for SMEs.

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Breedon has worked tirelessly to create seamless partnerships with businesses, so our clients can receive a well-rounded service that is truly exceptional.

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Rachael’s story inspires network

A Warwickshire businesswoman has told her inspiring story of going from leaving home at just 16 to finding her passion for numbers and launching a successful accountancy firm – with a goal to see it turn over £1 million by the age of 40. Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce hosted its latest Women in Business Networking Lunch at Ansty Hall attracting an audience of businesswomen from across the region.

The event, sponsored by Alsters Kelley Solicitors, featured a fireside chat with Rachael Chadwick-Harrison, Founder and Managing Director of Chadwick Accountants and Bookkeepers Ltd.

Rachael gave an honest account of her story of growing up with an alcoholic mother, juggling jobs at 15, and ultimately leaving home at 16 with good school grades to make it on her own.

She went on to work in banking, bookmakers, construction, the care home sector, the third sector, and even opened a beauty salon – all while raising a daughter on her own.

But all of these roles gave her a broad range of experiences which saw her land a financial controller role which proved a turning point in her career, providing her with a wealth of experience in finance.

It was the pandemic which saw Rachael launch Chadwick Accountants and Bookkeepers Ltd from her back bedroom and she went on to turn a £1,000 per month side hustle into a successful business worth £90,000 in just six months.

Today, the business is based in Bidford with a team of 12 staff, and the 37-year-old is now on track to see the award-winning business turn over £1 million by the time she turns 40.

Rachael also hosts the successful podcast For Finance Sake, providing free basic financial advice to businesses – with the Women in Business event itself recorded for a special episode.

Rachael said: “I developed a strong work ethic from a young age. Not being given the same financial support as my friends gave me the understanding of the value of the pound and the drive to make my own money.

“I also wanted to create a home which was a safe space, and didn’t want to fall down and accept my fate, but go out there and change it for the better.

“I took a risk on launching my business, but it was one that paid off, and I feel extremely lucky to have the business and incredible team I have today.

“I really enjoyed telling my story at the Women in Business event, and I’m excited to broadcast it on my podcast for listeners to hear.”

The well-established Women in Business network meets two to three times a year, providing an opportunity for businesswomen across the region to meet informally in a relaxed setting.

It also acts as a forum for members to raise any issues around government policy which is then fed back to the British Chambers of Commerce.

Keely Hancox, of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, hosted the chat at the latest event.

She said: “Our latest Women in Business lunch was an extremely inspirational event, and I would like to thank Rachael for sharing her story so honestly with us.

“It was also an excellent opportunity to share our own stories with each other and make valuable connections with other businesswomen from across our fantastic region.

“I would like to thank our sponsors Alsters Kelley Solicitors and the Ansty Hall team for making it possible, as well as everyone who attended the event.”

What women want Advice for female business owners

When Rachael Chadwick-Harrison founded Chadwick Accountants & Bookkeepers in Bidford-on-Avon in 2021, it was with a clear vision: to create a business that measures success not by hours billed, but by the success stories of its clients and people. She is passionate about building a culture of care and development, investing in apprenticeships, mentoring her staff, and prioritising wellbeing.

That passion extends to supporting not only her mainly-female team in achieving

the right life-work balance, but in offering sound, practical advice to female company owners and employers, who often face particular challenges in what can still be the male-dominated world of business.

Rachael’s approach has not only established her company but also transformed client organisations. At the Women in Change Awards this year, she won Change Programme of the Year for leading a financial and cultural transformation in a utilities consultancy of more than 150 staff. She sees this as proof

that women can drive systemic change: bringing clarity, empathy and resilience to the toughest environments.

“Businesses face new pressures - from digital transformation to mental health challenges,” she said. “Leadership today isn’t about command and control – it’s about creating environments where people feel supported to adapt and thrive.”

Asked what advice she would give to other women looking to step into leadership, Rachael said: “Don’t wait until

you think you’re ready - you’ll never feel 100 per cent ready. Take the leap, back yourself, and surround yourself with people who lift you up.

“And if you find yourself in a toxic culture, don’t internalise it. The problem isn’t you –it’s the system. You have the power to build something better.”

She added: “You can’t pour from an empty cup. Prioritising your wellbeing isn’t selfish - it’s the foundation for leading effectively.”

Chamber Annual Conference

All set for annual conference

Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire are gearing up for the biggest economic conference in the region’s calendar.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Annual Business and Economic Conference is taking place at the IXL Events Centre in Southam on Friday, November 14 and features a range of speakers and panellists from the world of business and politics.

The event, which is sponsored by Prime Accountants Group and People Arches Ltd, includes a panel discussion on the future of the region with MPs from the city and the county.

It will also feature an economic update from Liz Martin, the senior UK economist at HSBC, who will then join a panel of business leaders who will discuss driving growth in Coventry and Warwickshire.

The conference will also hear the latest on key regeneration and developments in town and city centres.

The keynote speech will be delivered by the inspirational Kieran Joseph, Founder & Chief Executive of Guardian Ballers CIC, which works to empower young people through basketball activities.

Guardian Ballers CIC, a Coventry-based charity, took home The Not-for-Profit Award, sponsored by Coventry Building Society, at the inaugural Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards this year and Kieran will be sharing his exciting journey from sports hall to boardroom with the audience.

The event will also include a final address from Chamber president Steve Harcourt as he signs off his two-year stint in the role.

Alongside the speakers and panels, it is the biggest networking opportunity in Coventry and Warwickshire with hundreds of business and civic leaders all in attendance.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Our annual conference attracts hundreds of businesspeople with an opportunity to hear from expert and inspirational speakers, as well as finding out what is going to drive growth in our region.

“It has been another year of uncertainty for firms across our patch and we’ll reflect that during the conference but also look ahead with confidence with key figures in Coventry and Warwickshire where we’ll examine what opportunities lie ahead.

“Our annual conference attracts hundreds of businesspeople with an opportunity to hear from expert and inspirational speakers, as well as finding out what is going to drive growth in our region."

Inspiring story to close conference

The inspiring personal story behind a Coventry-based not-for-profit organisation, that uses the power of sport to empower young people in the region to greater mental health, will have top billing at a major conference in the region.

Kieran Joseph, who established Guardian Ballers in 2021 – which has gone on to help thousands of young people through wellbeing and basketball sessions, will give the keynote address at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Annual Business & Economic Conference on November 14.

Kieran has been asked to provide the conference’s keynote speech after Guardian Ballers picked up The Not-For-Profit Champion Award, proudly sponsored by Coventry Building Society, at this year’s inaugural Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards.

He will describe how his life took a pivotal turn in 2019 when he decided to resign as a teacher in the city after volunteering in Rwanda and working with refugee children in Seattle in the previous year.

“I came back and everything looked different,” he said. “I resigned from my job knowing I wanted to do something different but then Covid hit and, for a short period I was stacking shelves.

“The idea came to me in a dream around using sport to support young people by giving them a safe place to talk and feel empowered.”

Guardian Ballers was born as a social enterprise combining sport and mental health support for young people. The organisation was launched with Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind in 2021.

It now reaches 2,000 young people annually and is expanding into Wales – where Kieran grew up before he moved to the Midlands.

“Mental health services can often feel too clinical,” he said. “By using sport, we can unlock people because it’s such an amazing way of connecting. We’ll go into schools with basketball and wellbeing resources, and we’ll reach young people in a way that feels natural and empowering.”

His keynote address will also touch upon the time he served as chaplain at Coventry City FC, where he supported players and staff.

“I hope to mobilise hearts and minds at the conference,” he said. “I want to inspire people not just on the day but to act afterwards – whether that is by volunteering their time or providing funding. We can all play a part in making a positive social impact.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We are really pleased to have Kieran as our keynote speaker at the conference and were incredibly happy to see Guardian Ballers crowned as The Not-for-Profit Champion at our awards earlier this year.

“As a Chamber of Commerce, we’re here to champion every aspect of our amazing region and as such we wanted to give him this platform to tell his story.

“He’s such an inspiring, passionate and entrepreneurial individual and has already achieved so much here in our region.

“It promises to be another great conference with a wide range of speakers and topics at a time when we need to drive growth in our economy.”

Deep dive into labour market issues

Recruitment, skills and productivity remain top of the business agenda but a symposium in Warwickshire revealed there are lots of reasons for hope in the region.

Anyone attending a business event over recent years will know that, before too long, the topic will turn to recruitment and skills.

From not being able to find the right staff through to a lack of softer skills, it’s been a consistent pain point for businesses across Coventry, Warwickshire and, indeed the whole country.

The skills shortage was exacerbated by the pandemic which skewed the labour market and now economic uncertainty, increasing costs of doing business and the looming Employment Rights Bill have made it a much more complicated picture. Throw in the rise of AI and firms could be forgiven for not knowing which way to turn when it comes to their most important resource – their people.

The Chamber, alongside WCG and the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD), organised a Local Labour Market Symposium to take a deeper dive into the whole issue.

Navneet Rai, Business Development Manager, and Innovation Practitioner at WCG, said: “We have been organising the Local Labour Market Symposium alongside partners for the last three years as we feel that it is a valuable event that addresses business and employee needs.

“Our events have a focus on wellbeing, recruitment, retention, and developing workforces that thrive. This year we also heard from innovation speakers, and a neurodiversity speaker, as we believe that inclusive cultures are at the forefront of well-being.” Coventry and Warwickshire, as Corin Crane, Chief Executive of the Chamber, put it, is microcosm of the UK economy with a wide range of sectors – from advanced manufacturing through to tourism – all contributing to the resilience of the region.

Esmeralda Bon, the CIPD’s Labour Market Analyst, offered insights into the make-up of the regional economy and the opportunities and threats it faces in the coming years, and how this may affect employment.

She revealed that the utility sector is currently the biggest in the region when it comes to gross value added (GVA), a measure of economic output and that close to 14,000 people work in the industry. This could rise by nine per cent to more than 15,000 by 2030.

Logistics and e-commerce employs 34,720 people, the most of any industry cluster. Employment growth is expected to be strong (plus seven per cent) in this industry rising to over 37,000 in the next five years.

Professional services could add another 1,800 people by 2030 – growing to nearly twenty-seven thousand in employment across Coventry and Warwickshire. While civil engineering is forecast to have the highest percentage change (plus17 per cent), growing from 23,441 to around 27,500 in the next five years.

Automotive services currently employs 18,635 and is predicted to rise to over 20,000 over the period. However, vehicle and defence technology is an industry which is expected to decline nationally and employment in Coventry

and Warwickshire is anticipated to fall slightly from 13,208 to just under 12,000 by 2030.

“The region benefits from a strong base of a variety of industries,” said Esmeralda. “Green jobs also present a real opportunity for growth and it is something the area must be ready to take advantage of.”

With a promise of growth, Corin said it was important that firms didn’t bury their heads in the sand when it comes to the Employment Rights Bill, describing it as the biggest piece of legislation to affect businesses in decades.

“You must have this on your radar,” he said. “We have it on ours and we are going to be lobbying Government on it so that we can get the right support and information out to companies of all sizes and sectors.”

And, despite the mixed economic picture, the forecast for employment growth means businesses must expand their horizons when it comes to finding staff.

Cat Brown, Director of Warwickshire-based recruitment giant Pertemps, said AI would have a part to play but that the human touch is still crucial.

“The most important part of any business is people,” Cat said. “So, while we are introducing AI and tech-led processes to increase efficiency and productivity, we can’t and shouldn’t eliminate people-led processes altogether. Building relationships is more important than ever.

“AI can help us implement blind recruitment processes and shortlist large talent pools quickly, but we have to monitor outputs continuously to ensure biases aren’t introduced.

“As businesses embrace the use of AI, so do candidates, and the face-to-face interview still forms a critical evaluation stage to make sure the candidate’s skills aren’t just on paper, created by AI matching their background to your job spec.

“A really interesting example came from a business I was speaking to recently.

“They’d had 20 applications for a job and 18 were virtually the same because individuals had clearly used AI to answer the questions. Guess what? They took on the two people who had filled out the applications themselves.”

Charlie Hart, a speaker and advocate on neurodiversity and inclusion, gave a personal account on autism and ADHD and the impact it has had on her career.

Charlie, who has had a 20-year career in technical HR roles and is an associate CIPD member, said it gave her considerable strengths in certain aspects of her work and employers who gained better understanding of neurodiversity could tap into a larger pool of talent.

“If employers can be patient with the stuff I find hard,” said Charlie, “then they’ll get someone who can deliver great results in other aspects of my work.”

As well as recruitment, there is also the small matter of staff retention, with businesses fighting tooth-and-nail to keep the best people and enhance productivity.

David Wilson, of Teams Glued, revealed a new VR product that could be available by the end of the year that will get people with different characteristics working together to solve a problem and, therefore, be more understanding of each other’s strengths in the real world.

It has been supported by Innovate UK through the UK Launchpad: immersive & creative, Coventry & Warwickshire programme.

Innovate UK is also behind the Further Education Innovation Fund (FEIF), which is another way for colleges to strengthen their ties with business.

WCG, Coventry College, Stratford-upon-Avon College and NWSLC are all part of the project in this region and Matt Alvarez, the consortium project manager for WCG, said it was focusing on practical support to drive sustainable growth.

The symposium was held at Warwick Trident College, one of five across the region within the WCG group that delivers training and apprenticeships to thousands each year.

Stuart Evans, Deputy Principal at WCG, said partnership with business is vital.

“We have a very broad curriculum and we react at pace when the local labour market needs it,” he said.

“Whether it is administration or digital skills, or if its construction or engineering, we’re committed to working with businesses.

“In fact, we’ll say bring the problem to us and we’ll help you find a solution. Let us co-design something with you because we want to be delivering training and courses that meet the needs of our regional economy.”

The Local Skills Improvement Plan (LSIP), which is overseen by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Chamber of Commerce in the West Midlands and Warwickshire, is also making strong progress in placing the future of skills in the hands of employers.

“For too long, ministers decided what courses and training should look like,” said Corin Crane, Chief Executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce. “That directive and funding would be passed down and eventually reach colleges and training providers and it was a case of ‘go and sell that to businesses in your area’.

“LSIPs have flipped that on its head. We’re listening to businesses on exactly what they need and then presenting that plan to colleges across the region who are responding to it and can access funding to deliver it.

“It means we are talking to and surveying employers across the region all the time and it’s vitally important that they engage with us on it. We’ve heard their concerns over many years and this is a real opportunity to bring about change and co-create courses and ways of learning.”

For more information or to get involved with the LSIP email lsip@cw-chamber.co.uk

Expand Your Possibilities

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Elevate your workforce with world-class training from WCG’s Warwickshire campuses at:

Our dynamic, industry-driven programs empower apprentices to become skilled professionals, fueling your business with innovation and expertise.

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Food for fuel: Nurturing delegates and the planet

By Ezra McCusker of Coventry Conferences

At Coventry Conferences, we understand that what we eat directly impacts how we think, feel, and perform. So, if you are attending an intensive training session, an academic symposium, or a corporate away day, delegates need more than just a meal that looks delicious.

That’s why we’re putting food firmly at the heart of our sustainability and wellbeing strategy. Our catering team, in partnership with BaxterStorey, is committed to using the most nutritious, responsibly sourced ingredients available. Every dish is designed not just to taste good, but to do good, for our delegates and for the environment.

Research increasingly shows that a wellbalanced, nutrient-rich meal can improve concentration, boost energy, and enhance overall performance. With that in mind, we’re taking steps to ensure that every plate we serve supports both people and planet.

One of our major ongoing initiatives is working towards Soil Association Food for Life accreditation, which recognises organisations that are committed to serving fresh, sustainable, and locally sourced food.

This process involves rigorous standards around ingredient quality, traceability, and environmental responsibility - all of which align with Coventry Conferences’ wider sustainability goals.

We’re also investing in our people. Our operations manager and executive head chef are currently undertaking Sustainability Skills for Managers training, ensuring that environmental awareness and ethical practices are embedded across all levels of our catering operation. From reducing food waste to making informed menu choices, the focus is on creating long-term, measurable impact.

A further development is the introduction of sustainable nutrition into our menus. This means designing dishes that not only meet dietary and energy needs, but also minimise environmental impact - for example, through plant-forward options, seasonal ingredients, and reduced food miles. The goal is balance: delicious meals that support wellbeing without compromising the planet.

Through initiatives like these, Coventry Conferences is reaffirming its commitment

to sustainability, health, and continuous improvement. We believe that great conferences start with great food. Food that fuels minds, sustains energy, and reflects care for the world around us.

about

for Life journey.

Powering regional growth with NWSLC

At the heart of North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College’s (NWSLC) commitment to supporting the regional economy is its dynamic and highly experienced Business Engagement Team.

Focused on helping small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) thrive through innovation, the team acts as a vital link between education and enterprise.

Led by Martin Rennison, Director of Business Growth and Employer Partnerships, the team provides tailored support to help businesses adopt new technologies, develop talent and pursue more sustainable operations.

Martin is supported by Charlotte Ward, Commercial Project Manager, who ensures businesses receive the right support at the right time, alongside Craig Line, Emerging Technologies Delivery Manager, who works directly with employers to introduce robotics, digital systems and low-carbon solutions.

Stuart Stapleton, Projects and Funding Manager, oversees the college’s portfolio of externally funded projects, including skillsbased bids, proposals and business cases.

Together the team focuses on four key pillars of innovation:

• Mobility Decarbonisation – Supporting the shift to cleaner, more efficient transport with a suite of courses in automated robotics and electrification, preparing learners for careers in electric vehicle technology.

• Industrial Sustainability – Offering flexible management and sustainability courses that enhance business strategy, leadership and operational performance with a focus on greener practices.

• AI and Digital Transformation – Equipping businesses with digital skills through courses in cyber security, digital promotion and CompTIA certifications, helping them stay competitive in the digital age.

• Robotics and Automation – Providing a progression pathway from entry-level awareness to advanced diagnostics in EV systems, with hands-on training using intelligent machinery to boost productivity and precision.

The team is a key delivery partner in the Driving SME Innovation in the West Midlands programme, funded by the Further Education Innovation Fund through Innovate UK. Delivered in collaboration with Coventry

College, Stratford-upon-Avon College and WCG, the programme offers free or low-cost support to SMEs across the region.

NWSLC plays a pivotal role in the programme through its flagship MIRA Technology Institute (MTI), a state-of-theart facility specialising in electric vehicle technology, decarbonisation, robotics, automation and AI. The Business Engagement Team connects employers with MTI’s specialist programmes to help them stay ahead of industry trends.

Using a structured three-step approach including organisational needs analysis, innovation plan and knowledge transfer, the team helps businesses identify their innovation goals and develop practical strategies to achieve them. Support includes sector-specific upskilling, technology demonstrations and help navigating funding opportunities.

More than just technical experts, the team is known for building lasting partnerships with businesses. Whether supporting start-ups or scaling established firms, their aim is to help organisations innovate, grow and future-proof their workforce.

For SMEs looking to boost productivity, explore digital tools or transition to greener operations, the Business Engagement Team can help. To speak with an Innovation and Growth Practitioner contact BE@nwslc.ac.uk

Business Engage Profiles

CultureNav helps local businesses go beyond engagement and unlock performance

A fast-growing Midlands start-up is helping Coventry and Warwickshire businesses turn workplace culture from a hidden risk into their strongest strategic asset.

Founded by local entrepreneurs and powered by “human-at-the-helm” AI, CultureNav partners with organisations such as Exactaform, a precision tooling manufacturer in Coventry, to tackle challenges such as employee engagement, values alignment, skills retention, and customer experience all while boosting performance and strengthening ESG credentials.

At the heart of CultureNav’s platform is an AI Culture SatNav, a smart system that makes culture visible, measurable, navigable, and actionable.

"For your culture to become genuinely world class, like an elite athlete, you need to be able to measure to improve. That way you can understand where the one per cent gains are that will make you truly stand out above your competition,” says founder and CEO Dr. Chris Golby.

“We built CultureNav to give leaders the clarity and control over culture they already experience with finance, sales, marketing and other key operations.”

Unlike traditional surveys that offer static snapshots once or twice a year, CultureNav – which was a finalist in Birmingham Tech Week 2025’s start-up category – captures dynamic data continuously, including employee experience, engagement and wellbeing, through to external perception, competitor analysis, eNPS, and beyond.

This data is analysed using CultureNav's own AI system, grounded in academic rigour and business insight, but with human experts at the helm to sense-check, contextualise, and prioritise what matters most.

“Our tech highlights risks, patterns and opportunities at speed and scale,” says Golby, “but our experts ensure those insights are relevant, focused, and actionable.”

The platform delivers a dynamic Culture Score, identifies misalignments, and maps a Suggested Route, a prioritised roadmap of practical key actions or ‘Waypoints’ designed to drive meaningful change. These are tailored across functions, teams, and leadership, aligning values, behaviours, processes and business goals to surface the most impactful opportunities.

Chris added: “Remember, results = operations x culture, and exceptional results = operational excellence x high performing teams. The businesses that scale rapidly are the ones that create elite, world-class cultures that enable this.”

“We spot issues early, act faster, and show our team we’re really listening,” says Exactaform CEO Jamie White. “It’s changed how we lead and how people engage.”

CultureNav’s approach is already trusted by businesses across sectors including engineering, finance, legal, travel, retail, as well as local SMEs.

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Benefits

Turns culture into a measurable growth engine

Links behaviours to KPIs, so leaders can fund what works and stop what doesn’t.

Faster, clearer decisions

Always-on culture data replaces anecdote; frequent scorecards and reports show where to intervene next.

Accelerates execution

Converts insights into actions (playbooks, champions, comms) so change actually sticks.

Improves retention & performance

Identifies friction points early; reduces regretted churn and boosts team output.

Closes the loop between Ops and People

“Results = Operations × Culture” makes operational metrics move, not just engagement scores.

Manager-ready guidance

Simple, practical prompts for leaders at every level — no PhD in HR required.

Reduces initiative waste

Stops scatter-gun wellbeing/training spend; funds the few actions with measurable impact.

Board-ready reporting

Clear, UK-English dashboards that withstand CFO scrutiny and investor questions.

Embeds recognition & momentum

Rituals (awards, monthly comms, champions) that make values visible and repeatable.

Lightweight to run

Light workload for HR teams; dedicated support and monthly cadence mean speed without chaos.

Quality rugby and warm hospitality on the menu

Coventry Rugby Club has enjoyed a resurgence on the pitch in recent seasons – and wants to give more local businesses a taste of what it has to offer as the festive season approaches.

The club, which plays its home games at Butts Park Arena – which is just outside the city’s inner ring road, is looking to improve on last season’s impressive fifth place finish in the English Champ Rugby table.

But it is also aiming to build on its reputation as a community club by attracting more firms from the city and the wider region to its games.

The club has launched a new business offer for matchday hospitality in the Tutors & Exam Platinum Marquee priced at just £75 + VAT per person, which includes a matchday ticket, three course meal, access to a private bar, live music and entertainment as well as exclusive access to players and Coventry Rugby sponsors.

And with some tasty fixtures on offer in December and then on New Year’s Day, it is the perfect opportunity for firms to give it a ‘try’.

On December 6, Coventry Rugby take on London Scottish at Butts Park Arena, followed by an all-Midlands clash with Nottingham Rugby on December 12.

Cornish Pirates visit the Butts on New Year’s Day for what is expected to be a roaring start to 2026 for Cov as they look to begin the year in style.

Off the pitch, businesses can make the most of the club’s new partnership with AC Event Catering for 2025/26, which has elevated its hospitality experience to a new level.

It means guests can enjoy great menus that are tailored for both regular fixtures and one-off matchday events alongside high-quality service trusted by leading sports venues.

The outstanding food offer is fresh, diverse, and full of flavour delivered by a passionate team that matches the pride and energy that can be seen out on the pitch.

Matt Cannon, Coventry Rugby Club general manager said: “Coventry Rugby has shown real positivity on and off the pitch in recent seasons. The squad’s commitment, teamwork, and resilience have created a strong culture that reflects the pride and ambition of the city.

“Off the field, the club continues to make a difference in the community - from school visits to foundation work - building strong connections and keeping rugby at the heart of Coventry life.

“Local business support helps create a powerful network united through sport, driving the club’s growth and inspiring the next generation. Big crowds and strong engagement at Butts Park Arena lift the players and show what can be achieved when the whole city gets behind its team.”

To claim the new business offer of £75 + VAT per person contact: events@coventryrugby.co.uk

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Influence Partner Birmingham City University has announced that it is to join the Association of Apprentices (AoA) as an Advisory Member.

The new partnership is forecast to bring both organisations closer together in a shared mission to provide optimum service and maximum opportunity for apprentices, employers and training providers throughout the Midlands region and the country.

Lisa Davies, Assistant Director of Apprenticeship Development at Birmingham City University, headed up discussions between the two bodies.

Lisa provides strategic direction for apprenticeship programmes, ensuring alignment with BCU’s organisational objectives and developing strategic

Birmingham City University announces new partnership

partnerships with employers and wider stakeholders locally, regionally and nationally.

Of the University’s new partnership with the Association of Apprentices she said:

“We are delighted to join The Association of Apprentices as an Advisory Member.

At Birmingham City University, we are committed to creating career-focused opportunities that meet the evolving skills needs of employers locally, regionally and nationally to deliver positive outcomes for our apprentices, including improved social mobility.

“This new partnership and the comprehensive support and technical solutions available through AoA will help to further enhance the experience of our apprentice community and shape a more inclusive, skills-driven future.”

Lisa Davies has worked in the education sector for 20 years, specialising in business development and apprenticeship strategy.

She entered the field during the era of NVQs and Train to Gain, spending the first 10 years of her career leading multiple teams within an FE college, which was followed by a number of years delivering skills programmes in the independent training provider space.

She has worked across all market sectors including automotive (heading up the prestigious Ford Dealer Apprenticeship Programme), right through to adult care (working closely with Skills for Care and DHSC to help champion and drive vocational professional career pathways).

Prior to her career in academia, Lisa spent over 10 years working in IT recruitment as

a national account director, responsible for the development of a portfolio of high-value preferred supplier and master vendor corporate accounts.

Lisa’s counterpart in the partnership discussions was Emily Rock, Chief Executive Officer of the Association of Apprentices. Speaking about the newlyforged relationship between the two organisations, she said: "Our partnership with Birmingham City University reflects a shared commitment to developing the skills, confidence and community that apprentices need to succeed.

“By working together, we can create more ways to enhance the apprentice experience and strengthen the bridge between education and employment."

Personal experience drives Claire on to make a difference

A Rugby businesswoman is drawing on her own personal experiences to help support companies and organisations when it comes to mental health and wellbeing.

Claire Russell comes from a corporate background but when she had a breakdown ten years ago she was shocked by the lack of support available.

“I had run my own business and was used to the corporate world but it was a completely eye-opening experience,” said Claire, who set up Mental Health In Business (MHIB) seven years ago.

“I had never experienced issues with my mental health before and I couldn’t believe that there was so little understanding and so little support.”

Claire experienced the loss of her partner to suicide in 2018 and that, coupled with the lack of help she had received, spurred her on to bring about change.

Over the past few years, the dialogue around mental health has improved but Claire believes there is still a big difference between ‘box-ticking’ and wanting to embed genuinely supportive and meaningful policies in a business.

The team at MHIB offers a whole range of services to support firms to get it right, which brings huge benefits to the company itself and the staff within it.

Services including everything from mental health first aid training and suicide first aid training through to manager and leadership training.

Further to that, MHIB can support with webinars and workshops as well as one-toone coaching.

The team work with everything from micro-businesses through to multinationals but the client-base tends to be organisations of between 50 and 500 employees.

Claire added: “The conversation has moved on, partly brought on by the pandemic and a sudden focus on our mental health and wellbeing, and that’s a positive thing.

“But there is still a long way to go from simply ticking a box on mental health and actually creating a culture where people’s health comes first.

“Businesses have a duty of care for the health and safety of their employees and mental health is part of that but the key message I want to get over to employers is that this is not just about meeting statutory requirements.

“Making mental health and wellbeing a priority is the right thing to do both for the people you employ but also for the bottom line too.

“A recent report suggested that poor mental health practices were costing the

UK economy £56 billion a year. I’ve seen another report that says it could be double that!

“Those figures look huge and can be hard to digest but if I put it another way and say that poor mental health could be costing a business £3,000 per employee per year, it starts to resonate.

“So, this is not just a nice to have, it is essential.

“That is why we work with so many businesses up and down the country and I am really keen to do more with companies and organisations in Coventry and Warwickshire to improve mental health and wellbeing practices across the region.”

For more information, go to https://mhib.co.uk/

Chamber Training

Chamber Training and City Electrical Factors partner to empower the next generation of apprentices

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training is celebrating its successful long-term partnership with leading UK electrical wholesaler, City Electrical Factors (CEF), which is helping young people across the region build rewarding careers and progress into senior roles.

The partnership, which was established more than 16 years ago, has so far supported 65 apprentices, with 17 accountancy apprentices currently on the programme at CEF’s Kenilworth-based finance department.

Through this collaboration, apprentices at CEF benefit from hands-on experience, as well as mentoring from experienced professionals, while studying for qualifications ranging from Association of Accounting Technicians (AAT) Level 2 through to Professional Accounting Technician (AAT) Level 4. This structured approach provides a clear pathway for progression with several apprentices advancing into leadership and management roles within the business.

Rob Hetherton, Finance Manager at City Electrical Factors, said: “Apprenticeships are central to how we build and retain talent at CEF. They contribute real value from day one, and we see them develop into confident, capable professionals. The partnership with Chamber Training ensures we’re offering the right

support, training and qualifications to help them succeed.”

CEF’s commitment to professional development reflects its long-standing belief in nurturing potential and promoting from within. Apprentices are given exposure to the company’s financial operations, customer accounts, and digital processes, allowing them to gain the technical and interpersonal skills essential for long-term career success.

One of those apprentices is Chelsie Donnelly, who joined CEF earlier this year after completing an employability programme with Chamber Training, Path 2 Apprenticeships, that helped prepare her for the world of work.

Path 2 Apprenticeships is an initiative of the West Midlands Combined Authority (WMCA), designed to help young people and adults, aged 19–29, across the region take their first step towards a successful career. Aimed at those who may not yet be ready for a full apprenticeship, the programme provides tailored training, employability support, and hands-on experience to build confidence and develop the essential skills employers are looking for.

Participants receive guidance from expert coaches and training advisors at Chamber Training and often secure work placements that lead directly into apprenticeships or employment. By connecting local talent with local businesses, the Path 2 Apprenticeship Programme plays a vital role in strengthening the West Midlands’ workforce and supporting inclusive economic growth.

Now working as a Sales Ledger Clerk, Chelsie is studying towards her AAT Level 2 Accounting qualification and plans to progress through to Level 4 to become a qualified accountant.

Chelsie added: “Since starting my apprenticeship, I’ve learned so much more than

Chamber Training apprentices offer free haircuts to support local families

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training apprentices helped local families prepare for the new school term by offering free children’s haircuts during the summer holidays.

Talented hairdressing apprentices from Chamber Training visited the Mosaic Family Hub in Jardine Crescent and The Moat Family Hub in Wood End, providing free haircuts to children and helping families ease the costs of returning to school.

The initiative was designed to support families facing extra financial pressures, while helping children feel confident and ready for the classroom with a fresh new look.

The Mosaic Family Hub provides a welcoming environment for families, children, and young people, offering access to a wide range of services, advice, and activities under one roof.

Natalie Burchell, Family Hub Community Practitioner at Mosaic Family Hub, said:

“This wonderful opportunity has brought real excitement to our families. We’re so grateful to the talented Chamber Training apprentices for giving their time to support our community.”

Nicky Cheshire, Business Management and Professional Services Training Manager at Chamber Training, said: “Our apprentices are not only gaining valuable hands-on experience, but they’re also using their skills to make a genuine difference in the community. Initiatives like this demonstrate the real-world impact of vocational training.”

This project forms part of Chamber Training’s wider community engagement programme, showcasing how apprentices are using their skills to support families and strengthen communities across Coventry and

Former Chamber Training

Two former apprentices from Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training have gone the extra mile for charity, raising more than £1,500 for The Myton Hospices and exemplifying the community spirit fostered during their training.

Matty Galland and Ryan Kent, now qualified accountants at Leigh Christou Ltd, completed the Kenilworth Half Marathon to support the charity, which provides vital care for people and families facing terminal illness.

With generous support from colleagues, friends and the unfailing generosity of Leigh Christou clients, the pair raised £1,560, bringing Leigh Christou’s total fundraising to an impressive £10,870. A cheque presentation was recently held at the Coventry office, where Martin Watts, Corporate Fundraiser at The Myton Hospices, accepted the donation from Matty and Ryan.

just accounting. I’ve built confidence, developed communication skills, and had great support from everyone in the team. It’s made me excited about where this career can go.”

Rob said: “Our partnership with Chamber Training ensures a steady pipeline of skilled, motivated individuals entering the business. We’ve had so many success stories of young talented apprentices offering a fresh perspectives and enthusiasm. In return, we give them a strong foundation, the structure and support to help them succeed both here at CEF or elsewhere.”

Nicky Cheshire, Business Development Manager at Chamber Training, said: “At Chamber Training, we’re fortunate to work with employers such as City Electrical Factors who are truly committed to developing young talent.

“Partnerships such as this create fantastic opportunities for apprentices to gain valuable experience and progress in their careers, while also helping businesses grow with skilled, motivated employees. We’re incredibly proud of the achievements of CEF’s apprentices and the positive impact programmes such as this have across our region.”

As one of the region’s leading apprenticeship providers, Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training works with employers across multiple sectors to create tailored training programmes that meet business needs and open doors for local talent.

Through partnerships such as this with CEF, Chamber Training continues to equip individuals with the skills, confidence, and qualifications they need to thrive, supporting both personal success and the region’s economic growth.

For more information about apprenticeship opportunities or how your business can get involved, visit www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk or call 024 7623 1122.

Warwickshire. Nicky added: “The event proved to be a heartwarming example of how local partnerships can create meaningful change. By combining practical learning with community spirit, Chamber Training apprentices are showing that small acts of kindness can make a big difference.”

To learn more about Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training and how you can get involved or benefit from their services, visit https://www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk/

Apprentices

get the ‘best of both worlds’ as they kick-off their careers

More than 70 apprentices have made a positive start to their career with Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training.

From accountancy to childcare and from health and social care through to business administration, as well as hairdressing, 74 apprentices were part of the new September intake and are working within companies and organisations across the region to develop new skills and gain nationally recognised qualifications.

Apprentices spend time working within the businesses but are also supported by the team at Chamber Training to help them develop and grow as they take their first steps on the career ladder.

That support is reflected in Chamber Training’s overall success rates of 83 per cent against a national average of 60 per cent.

Nicky Cheshire, Business Development and Professional Services Training Manager at Chamber Training, said apprenticeships are great for the individual and perfect for businesses too.

She said: “We are thrilled that our new intake of apprentices have made such a positive start to their careers with us and we’re already receiving fantastic feedback from employers.

“Our apprenticeships really do offer the best of both worlds as they are a chance for individuals to earn while experiencing life in the real world of work, as well as working towards their qualifications.

“It’s an opportunity to develop softer skills too so that, once their apprenticeship is complete, they can contribute even further to the workplace and take the next steps in their career.”

To find out more about apprenticeships through Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce Training, go to https://www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk/ apprenticeships/

apprentices raise cash for The Myton Hospices

Leigh Christou Ltd, a well-established firm of chartered certified accountants and business advisers based in Coventry, has a longstanding partnership with Chamber Training, supporting numerous apprentices over the years. The firm provides audit, accountancy, taxation and business advisory services to a wide range of clients across the region and is known for its commitment to developing future talent within the financial sector.

Both Matty and Ryan began their AAT apprenticeship training with Chamber Training and have since progressed to become ACCAqualified accountants, continuing to grow within the Leigh Christou team. Current trainees at Leigh Christou include Madison Reynolds (AAT Level 4) and Kurt Smith, who recently completed AAT Level 3.

Fiona Drake, at Leigh Christou Ltd, said:

“We’re extremely proud of Matty and Ryan for their dedication and community spirit.

Their success, along with that of our current and former trainees, reflects our values of supporting professional growth while giving back to the community.”

Nicky Cheshire, Business Development Manager at Chamber Training, added:

“Leigh Christou’s ongoing partnership with Chamber Training is a fantastic example of how employers and apprentices can work together to achieve great things. From raising vital funds for charity to nurturing the next generation of qualified accountants, their success stories truly demonstrate the power of vocational training.

“This initiative forms part of Chamber Training’s wider commitment to community engagement and career development, showcasing how apprentices and employers across Coventry and Warwickshire create lasting, positive change. It also highlights how Chamber Training graduates carry the skills

and values gained through their programmes into their workplaces and communities, making a meaningful difference long after completion.”

To find out more about Chamber Training please visit https://www.cw-chambertraining.co.uk/ or to hear more news from Leigh Christou visit https://www.leigh-christou.co.uk/home

Go global to boost business

Companies in the West Midlands and Warwickshire have been urged to take their business global to boost their own bottom line and grow the regional economy, at a major summit.

The West Midlands International Trade Summit 2025 was held at The Slate at the University of Warwick and heard from businesses that are already trading on the international stage as well as organisations which offer support.

The summit was delivered by Business Growth West Midlands and organised by the three regional chambers of commerce – Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and Black Country Chamber of Commerce – with support from Lloyds and Hooper & Co.

The event heard from a range of speakers – from West Midlands Mayor Richard Parker through to Professor David Bailey, from the University of Birmingham Business School – on a host of topics relating to overseas trade.

Steve Lynch MBE, Director of International Trade at the British Chambers of Commerce, outlined the kind of help available to companies wanting to export, with Ralph Edwards, head of trade sales at Lloyds Commercial Bank,

change to: offering insight into some of the opportunities available to businesses.

Tamara Harvey, co-artistic director at the RSC, gave examples of how the organisation exports productions around the world before Robert Lawton, director of Lawton Tubes, talked about his experiences in going from zero to becoming a King’s Award winning exporter.

David Hooper, of Hooper & Co, brought the 250-strong audience up to speed on US tariffs and how they are affecting companies in the region.

The event concluded with a panel discussion chaired by Raj Kandola, of the Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce and included Dr Ruth Fleet, of Greater Birmingham Chambers of Commerce; Dan Carins, of WMCA; Abrar Aziz, of Targeted Help; and Chris Dowen, of Moserv.

It also saw the launch of the new Exporting Starts Here Global Growth Report 2025.

Corin Crane, the chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, facilitated the event.

He said: “This was a truly inspiring and informative event. We heard how our region exports everything from

“This

culture to copper tubing around the world and that there is still a huge amount of respect for UK products and services.

“There is no doubting that it has been a tough few years for businesses and that is why it is so important that we continue to bang the drum for the importance of exporting. It boosts the bottom line, it makes businesses more resilient and it contributes significantly to economic growth.

“And, as we heard time and again at the event, there is so much help available to make it happen.”

Dan Carins, policy manager at the West Midlands Combined Authority, said: “International trade is pivotal to the ambitions of the West Midlands Combined Authority as outlined in the West Midlands Growth Plan.

“By expanding global reach, local businesses can unlock new markets, drive innovation, and boost productivity, which are essential for achieving inclusive growth and raising living standards across the region.

“Bringing together hundreds of businesses and those who provide the support to make export happen was a fantastic way to show the opportunities that are out there and the help available.”

was a truly inspiring and informative event. We heard how our region exports everything from culture to copper tubing around the world and that there is still a huge amount of respect for UK products and services."

For more information on the support available to export go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/international-trade/exporting-starts-here/

“By expanding global reach, local businesses can unlock new markets, drive innovation, and boost productivity, which are essential for achieving inclusive growth and raising living standards across the region. Bringing together hundreds of businesses and those who provide the support to make export happen was a fantastic way to show the opportunities that are out there and the help available.”

Confidence rebounds as year draws to a close

Business confidence in Coventry and Warwickshire bounced back heading into the final stages of 2025 according to a new survey – but leaders are warning against cost increases in this November’s Budget.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s latest Quarterly Economic Survey (QES) saw an unexpected rise in sentiment among companies in both manufacturing and service sectors. However, the survey was conducted ahead of the cyber-attack that hit Jaguar Land Rover.

The survey, which is delivered in partnership with Prime Accountants Group and measures how business owners are feeling, is analysed by the Business Intelligence Service at Warwickshire County Council.

From the responses of businesses across the service and manufacturing sectors, it gives scores out of 100 where anything above 50 indicates growth and anything below 50 is negative.

It looks at a range of aspects of doing business in the region, including the outlook for employment, investment, confidence, and current and future orderbooks for both domestic and overseas sales.

The survey showed that businesses in services and manufacturing had seen an uptick in domestic orders compared to three months ago but that overseas sales had remained flat.

It also indicated that employment prospects had improved compared to the last survey data, while investment decisions and cashflow had been boosted too.

On the whole, it led to an improvement in confidence and an overall economic outlook score of 60.2 compared to 50.3 in the second quarter of the year.

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “The survey shows, once again, the real resilience of businesses here in Coventry and Warwickshire. When faced with the most incredibly challenging circumstances they simply

knuckle down, innovate and continue to make this an amazing place to do business.

“However, there is absolutely no doubting that these are really difficult times for firms and we are urging the Chancellor to avoid any fresh taxes or cost rises for businesses in the November Budget.

“A growth in confidence on our patch is positive news but we know from speaking to businesses on a day to day basis that it’s still a tough climate out there and we want to see this November’s Budget offer a real incentive to grow.”

Steve Harcourt, director of Prime Accountants Group and president of the Chamber, added: “Confidence improved at the time of the survey but I know from experience that business sentiment is still fragile at the moment because firms are having to contend with so many different issues both domestically and globally.

“We, therefore, want to see a budget that encourages growth through investment in infrastructure, support with exports and further action on skills.”

Todd Williams, insight analyst at Warwickshire County Council, said: “Quarter three at a national level rose modestly primarily due to an increase in services output, alongside continued weakness in manufacturing output. Weak overseas orders are working through the UK supply chain, leading to weak domestic orders.

“Meanwhile, the latest QES results show the local economy surging, with strong confidence. Local sentiment around overseas sales remains extremely low, with cashflow and investment continuing to be weak in the local services sector.

“Local concerns around labour costs remain significant for both the services and manufacturing sectors, with the manufacturing sector also being very concerned about raw material costs and utilities. Local recruitment difficulties are a mixed picture, a slight improvement for the services sector being offset by severe challenges in the manufacturing sector.

“Furthermore, local investment and training remain weak for the services sector, yet both are very strong for the manufacturing sector. The local services sector is also very concerned about labour costs and taxation. Despite these concerns, local employment is not expected to decrease, contrary to the national picture.

“The results show that the overall economic outlook index for Coventry and Warwickshire exceeding the national trend in many ways. Local and national manufacturing and services businesses continue to be positive about the domestic market. Nevertheless, very weak local sentiments around exports remain a significant concern.”

Overall QES results

Economic Outlook:

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Business Confidence

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Lifting the corporate veil –HMRC’s liability notices

In most cases when a company closes with debts owed to HMRC, the debt dies with it. However, this is not so in all cases, especially with HMRC’s wider powers for alternative recovery routes.

Some of the possible risks to directors of HMRC piercing the corporate veil include

Employee liability - The Income Tax (Pay As You Earn) Regulations 2003

If the amount of tax that should have been deducted from the employee’s wages was more than the actual amount deducted then an employee can be served a notice to pay.

Firms feed back to the Bank

Businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire have been feeding back to the Bank of England on the current economic picture.

The Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce held a roundtable with Glynn Jones, the Bank’s Deputy Agent in the West Midlands, at Coombe Abbey Hotel.

Companies from a range of sectors – from cleaning to copper tubing and from freight to finance – gave their verdict on the factors affecting decision-making in business.

The impending Budget and the Employment Rights Bill are, alongside global issues, weighing on confidence the meeting heard.

Glynn said that inflation was proving ‘stickier’ than the bank had expected but that interest rates are still expected to trend downwards. How fast and how far is less clear.

“It is also difficult to assess how far the current weakness in growth is down to weak demand or weak supply,” he told the meeting. “There may have been some structural change following the various shocks to the UK economy which would also have a material impact on the outlook. In terms of inflation some may ask why interest rates are coming down when inflation is still rising.

“We believe there are a number of factors that will bring inflation back to target over the forecast period, not least the slack that is emerging in the labour market as the number of vacancies fall and with continuing evidence that wage inflation is easing.

“The Monetary Policy Committee is still expecting rates to come down, albeit maybe not as quick as many anticipated earlier in the year.”

He added: “It’s great to meet with businesses in this way and hear the issues they are facing as it helps to put some real-world context behind the data we are seeing.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re incredibly grateful to the businesses who gave up their time to feedback to the Bank in this way. It’s another way we ensure that the voice of local firms is heard directly by decision-makers.”

Officer Liability Notices (OLN) –Finance Act

Where there is evidence that a director has filed a false return the directors whose actions caused the deliberate inaccuracy can be held liable.

Personal Liability Notice (PLN) - Social Security Administration Act 1992

A PLN creates a personal liability for the debt on anyone served with a PLN. A PLN may be issued to directors of a company for unpaid NIC.

Joint and Several Liability Notices (JLN) – Finance Act 2020

Where HMRC issue a JLN the individual becomes jointly and severally liable for the relevant tax debts. JLNs cover all taxes, not just NICs.

And now Companies House can fine directors…

Companies House now has the power to issue a penalty under the Companies Act 2006.

This can include:

Failing to file a confirmation statement

Failing to file accounts

• Not declaring the identification of registered directors

Directors have a serious role to play when they are empowered to act for a company. It is important that they understand their duties and the implications for failure in those.

The corporate veil isn’t bullet proof…

Behind the balance sheet: Life in the accountancy fast lane!

Morgan Davies is living out his life’s ambition as the managing director of

Prime Accountants Group

In this interview with C&W in Business, we find out how some words of wisdom from his father made him set his heart on being the first port of call for support for business owners.

Profile: Morgan

When Morgan Davies’ father was made redundant at the height of the recession in the 1980s, it had a life-changing effect.

His dad, Peter, lost his job at a steel stockholder in Walsall but instead of feeling sorry for himself, decided to set up his own business offering the same polishing service that he’d been responsible for at his former place of work.

Professional Polishing Services was born and did exactly what it said on the tin (or steel!) – it polished the kind of stainless steel one might see in a chip shop or industrial kitchen. It took off and is still going strong today with the Davies family name still involved through Morgan’s sister, Kirsty.

And while Davies, who is now managing director of Prime Accountants Group, might not have been drawn into the family firm, he learned from his father’s work ethic and some crucial words of wisdom that led him down his career path of choice.

“I could see that setting up his own business changed his life,” said Davies. “He became successful and had a lot more money than he did when he was in paid employment.

“That entrepreneurial spirit made him a great role model for me. My sister joined the family business and there was probably only room for one sibling! She has done amazingly well as managing director, taking it onto the next level. She's fantastic.

“I did some work experience at the factory in the six-week holiday when I was a kid painting the factory floor and realised it wasn’t for me!

“So, when I was thinking about careers, my dad told me I should be an accountant. ‘My accountant has great cars and has lovely holidays every year,’ he told me.

“And I thought: ‘I like nice cars, and I like nice holidays. I'm going to become an accountant.’ And that's literally how the thought process started.”

There are few teenage boys who have their heart set on accountancy but with his father’s promise of cool cars and warmer climes, Davies put his full focus on achieving his ambition.

He attended Great Barr Comprehensive School in north Birmingham in the Kingstanding catchment area – one of Europe’s largest council estates at the time.

The school kept him ‘on track’ but showed little faith in his chances to make the grade as an accountant.

“I was quite rare at 15 or 16, knowing I wanted to be an accountant,” he said. “I spoke to the careers adviser at school and they told me not to do it as there was too much study involved.

“They tried to talk me out of it! But I took accountancy as a GCSE and then went off outside of the school to do A-levels, knowing what I wanted to do.

“I didn’t go to university because I thought it would slow me down but ended up doing a one-year sandwich course at Birmingham Poly, as it was in those days. That meant I could get a training contract and qualify a year quicker than if I had gone to university.”

His early career saw him experience life in both a small, independent firm and a large national company with stints at Birmingham-based Wenham Major followed by two years at Grant Thornton.

He enjoyed the experience but it proved something in his own mind – that he wanted to support owner-managed businesses, just like his father’s.

“It's very difficult to set up a business and take that risk, and then to make it succeed,” he said. “Not only do you need talent, you need hard work, but also you need support.

“I wanted to be that support. It can be a lonely place in business and often your accountant is the person you turn to for advice and for someone to lean on.”

Davies joined Pilley and Florsham in Coventry 21 years ago and the company later took over Raftery & Co in Solihull on the day he became a partner with the firm.

Instead of merging surnames together, the business rebranded as Prime Accountants Group – now one of the best-known professional services businesses in the region with offices in Coventry, Birmingham and Solihull.

A year ago, Davies became managing director and says it has given him the freedom to do what he does best: helping clients not just through compliance but through understanding the trials and tribulations of running a company. And, also, spotting opportunities.

“As the owner of the business, you might not be able to share some of your concerns and your fears, because people are scared that others are going to think less of them,” he said.

“They feel isolated, they feel lonely. And the person they go to more to discuss these things is their accountant,

which is why I like this industry, because we get to share and support our clients when they need it.

“People see accountancy as boring, they see it as just numbers. That couldn’t be further from the truth.

“The numbers tell a story and from that story you can then use previous experience and knowledge to help guide that business owner to future success.

“I listen to what’s keeping businesspeople awake at night and help provide the solutions to the problems they have. The team here will then go away and deliver most of that work but it is about having that empathy and understanding that is most important.”

So, what is keeping business owners in Coventry, Warwickshire and the wider West Midlands awake at night?

“We've got increased tax burdens and increased employment costs for a start,” said Davies. “We've got the uncertainty of the world, and most businesses have found that their growth has stagnated and their costs have increased, and therefore their margins have eroded.

“If you look at the last five years we've had Covid and then, out of Covid, we had all the supply chain issues. Then, out of that, we had the war in Ukraine and a surge in energy costs. This year was probably going to be our first normal year for some time. That was the hope.

“And then, of course, the Budget at the end of 2024 scuppered that a bit with the massive increase in national insurance. And then Donald Trump came in, making all his threats about tariffs.

“Then throw into that mix the JLR cyber-attack recently, we've not had a normal year at all!

“And, while everything is so polarised around the world, will we ever get a normal year? Is abnormal, the new normal?”

The accountancy world has not been immune from change either with many provincial firms being snapped up by private equity funds because they are a safe bet.

That, says Davies, is where Prime is taking advantage of the fact that it is ‘passionately independent’ which helps to draw in talented individuals who want to make a difference within the firm.

“The profession is going through lots of change currently, as many firms cannot solve their succession planning problems and are, therefore, left with no option to sell to the many private equity investors who are keen on investing in the accountancy sector,” he said.

“We get an approach weekly with people looking to acquire our firm. However, it would break the shareholders’ hearts to have to sell out.

“Therefore, we are looking at changing our constitution next year to move away from a hard-in, hard-out mechanism which is common place in the profession, to an easy-in, easy-out mechanism to help retain and attract future leaders to ensure Prime’s successful succession planning.”

He added: “We’ve got people who want to be future leaders, but they can't write a cheque to get to the top table, so our new constitution, which we will hopefully roll out next year, is a more attractive proposition and will allow them to achieve that ambition.”

This succession planning is part of Prime’s plan to keep on growing, alongside an ongoing drive to attract talent. Four new directors will have joined the business under Davies’ watch by the start of 2026 and that, in turn, leads to better client retention and new business development.

“We've had more organic growth and acquisition of new clients in the last year than I can remember in a long time because we've had the people that can respond to opportunities,” he said.

“We’ve also increased our audit capacity and have won a lot of audit clients. We've got two new tax directors coming in, and actually we're going to do more tax offering, particularly with the current environment.

“Problem solving is another opportunity for growth. When a client sees their accountant as their most trusted adviser, which is nearly always the case, we can help them way beyond the numbers on the page and can tap into our networks for help.”

Prime Accountants Group has also joined the coincidentally named Prime Global Association which is an opportunity to work with partner firms around the world to help clients internationally, as well as offering peer-to-peer support. Davies was heading to Bangkok in November for the association’s world summit.

It’s a busy business schedule but he still finds time to be a taxi driver for his teenage children!

“Problem solving is another opportunity for growth. When a client sees their accountant as their most trusted adviser, which is nearly always the case, we can help them way beyond the numbers on the page and can tap into our networks for help.”

“Me and my son like to watch football,” said Davies “He plays football and plays cricket. So, I'm managing director of a large independent firm of accountants by day, Uber driver for the family by night.

“My daughter is into musical theatre. She's studying that as a BTEC/A-Level standard course, and then she's in lots of shows and has just recently starred as Sandy in Grease at Sutton Coldfield Town Hall. So, there's a lot of ferrying her to auditions, rehearsals and shows too.”

The ultimate question is whether the world of accountancy has lived up to his dad’s promise of fast cars and global travel.

“We’ve had some nice breaks and nice holidays,” he said. “I think is really important when you've got a very busy, intense job to make sure you have those breaks throughout the course of the year to spend time together as a family.

“I'm a big petrol head as well. I've got a Lotus Emira at the moment which is my Sunday toy and if I can get out in it or out to some events, that makes me really happy.

“So, you can definitely say that dad was right!”

Profile: Morgan Davies

Born: Birmingham

Live: Burntwood

Married: To Jane

Children: Mia (17) and Lucas (15)

Hobbies: Family time, sport and cars

Favourite Book: Any sport autobiography

Favourite Film: Goodfellas

Last Holiday: Canada

Gadget: iPhone

Prime Accountants Group is celebrating more than 40 years of membership of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

This long-term partnership has grown even stronger in recent years with Prime becoming a Business Influence partner as well as sponsoring the Chamber’s Quarterly Economic Survey, which helps them to keep their finger on the pulse of the region’s economy.

Furthermore, Prime director Steve Harcourt has been president of the Chamber for the past two years and has been seen across the city and county sporting the presidential chain!

REIMAGINE BANKING A NEW WAY TO BANK

Steve Chu, Head of Commercial Banking at iFAST Global Bank, talks to Sarah Dale about the benefits for SMEs to banking with a global digital bank and the value of face-to-face networking in the local community.

Reimagine Banking– that is the strapline of iFAST Global Bank. The global digital bank has been designed to make banking easier for SMEs by creating one account for transactions and savings with multiple currencies.

It is part of iFAST Corporation, a global digital banking and wealth management platform, which has its headquarters in Singapore.

Established in 2000, the Group offers a comprehensive range of investment products and services to financial advisory firms, financial institutions, banks, multinational companies, as well as retail and highnetworth investors across Asia.

In 2022, iFAST Corporation acquired a UK bank and rebranded it as iFAST Global Bank. It provides multi-currency deposits, domestic and international payments, and foreign exchange services. Regulated by both the Prudential Regulation Authority (PRA) and the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA), iGB operates across three divisions:

• Digital Personal Banking – enabling individuals, including those abroad, to open a UK multi-currency current account.

• Business Banking – Two dedicated sub-divisions were established to serve distinct client segments: Commercial Banking, serving SMEs and corporates with domestic and cross-border payment needs, and Transactional Banking, supporting regulated financial institutions including banks and NBFIs.

• EzRemit – delivering fast and convenient global remittance services.

"Face-to-face contact is important to us. We believe that even though we are a digital bank, the human connection is a key and valuable point to establishing a positive relationship with customers."

Steve Chu, Head of Commercial Banking at iFAST Global Bank, said: “There are many ways our vision of iFAST is changing the landscape of banking. Our customers can have a multi-currency business account, which is very beneficial to companies which operate worldwide. Customers can also benefit from having their current account and savings account as one account which is particularly beneficial for SMEs and start-ups so they don’t have to juggle funds around accounts while earning interest.

“We want to simplify banking and make it easier for SMEs. What customers are looking for is a trustworthy bank.”

Steve worked in banking in Hong Kong in wealth management and investments before moving to the UK in 2021 to work for HSBC UK. He joined iFAST Global Bank in 2023 and built the personal banking team and, along with CEO Inayat Kashif, established the commercial banking team.

iFAST Global Bank is based in the UK at Canary Wharf and has a team of 70-80 employees. In November, they are moving to a larger office, which is double the size of their current space, within the same building to support their growth and are also recruiting to grow the team. As well as the UK team, iGB has a team in Asia, including an IT team in Malaysia and an additional customer services team in Malaysia.

“Having customer service teams based in both the UK and Malaysia mean that our customers can reach us whatever time of dayit is and from wherever they are based,” adds Steve.

The company, which won the Best Newcomer Award at the British Bank Awards 2025, is on a growth trajectory, however, Steve says the challenge they face

is raising awareness of how digital banking can benefit customers.

“Business banking can be quite traditional,” explains Steve. “Business owners are sticking with the separate current and savings accounts as they don’t realise there is an option like ours, which makes banking simpler. It is quite a new concept.

“We are new to the industry, but at the same time, we are actively listening to our customers. We are growing our business and growing our customers’ businesses.”

They joined West London Chambers of Commerce two years ago.

“We became Chamber members as we are quite new to the area,” adds Steve.

“Face-to-face contact is important to us. We believe that even though we are a digital bank, the human connection is a key and valuable point to establishing a positive relationship with customers.”

Part of the ethos of iFAST is to give back to the community which they do in several ways, including supporting cultural events such as sponsoring the London Lunar New Year Fair, supporting the Miyabi Matsuri Japanese Summer Festival and this year, they will be sponsoring an Indian community event.

For the past two years, they have sponsored the Bessingby Park Rangers U9/U10 teams, and this year they will continue their support to encourage more children to enjoy and participate in football.

They also provide sponsorships for international student associations, helping students feel welcomed and supported in the UK.

https://www.ifastgb.com/en/commercial-banking

Dafferns strengthens tax team with new appointment

Independent accountancy firm Dafferns has appointed Mark Brayshaw as Corporate Tax Partner, reinforcing its ongoing commitment to delivering exceptional tax services to clients.

With over 20 years’ experience, Mark is well versed in both compliance and advisory requirements - he started his career with HMRC where he qualified as a senior tax inspector, completed his ACCA qualification, and worked at Whitehall. He then chose to move into practice, having a decade of experience working for two top 10 accountancy firms in the Midlands before joining Dafferns.

Mark primarily works within the owner-managed business sector supporting clients with their tax opportunities and challenges. While his experience is primarily corporate, Mark has also worked extensively in employment taxes and private client matters - skills that ensure a comprehensive service for clients.

Mark’s specialisms include, but are not limited to: Tax compliance, research and development tax

credits, tax enquiries and investigations, company structuring and capital allowances.

Dafferns prides itself on being an independent client-focused firm and Mark’s values align perfectly with those of the business.

With his deep expertise in compliance and a proven ability to navigate complex tax matters, Mark will be a tremendous asset to Dafferns’ clients and internal teams.

“I’m really excited to be starting my new role as Tax Partner here at Dafferns,” said Mark. “For me, this isn’t just about numbers and accounts — it’s about people. I’m passionate about building strong, supportive relationships with colleagues and clients alike, and I’m looking forward to working alongside such a talented team.”

Brian Jukes and Geoffrey Cox, Joint Managing Partners at Dafferns, said: “Mark’s appointment reflects our continued investment in building a firm that is future-ready, client-focused, and driven by excellence. We look forward to the impact he will make and the exciting journey ahead.”

“I’m really excited to be starting my new role as Tax Partner here at Dafferns. For me, this isn’t just about numbers and accounts — it’s about people. I’m passionate about building strong, supportive relationships with colleagues and clients alike, and I’m looking forward to working alongside such a talented team.”

After launching the UK’s Industrial Strategy with the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer, and Secretary of State for Business and Trade, MIRA Tech Park (MTP) has also launched its Innovation Network to support the next generation of start-ups to accelerate growth.

The MTP Innovation Network is driven by the globally unique cluster of companies based at the site from large corporates to new entrants bringing a wealth of expertise, connections, and market opportunity as a launchpad for innovative new businesses to scale and grow.

At the recent launch event, the network heard from Guy Foulger, Engineering & Technology Director for HORIBA MIRA - the advanced engineering and testing expertise that sits at the heart of MIRA Tech Park.

Disruptive UK tech leader Becky Lodge shared her journey to a Top 20 Woman in Data and finance partners gave advice across grants, debt and equity investment for funding growth.

The network also announced its first three competition winners chosen for strategic fit, technology alignment and readiness for growth.

Winners benefit from expert mentoring, market connections, investor opportunities, and physical space for product development and demonstration.

Totalling over £100,000 in commercial value, the start-ups have access to a bespoke package of support that understands the complexity of scaling a hardware technology business in a global marketplace.

The winners are custom and application-optimised battery manufacturer Raeon; remote-monitoring satellite technology spin-out Geospatial Ventures; and PRG Scotland which has patented technology for low carbon road material.

“MIRA Tech Park is already home to six ‘unicorns’ (privately owned start-ups valued at $1 billion plus) and has served industry for nearly 80 years providing a toolkit that accelerates product development and market readiness,” Tim Nathan MTP’s Managing Director said.

“The UK faces a challenge in commercialising R&D and we have demonstrated that with the right partners and Government alignment – we are the location that can overcome this.”

Chamber chief executive takes on national role

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce chief executive Corin Crane has been appointed by the British Chambers of Commerce as a new Chamber Network Non-Executive Director.

Corin, who joined the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber from the Black Country Chamber three years ago, joins Louisa Harrison-Walker OBE, chief executive of Sheffield Chamber of Commerce, as one of two new Non-Executive Directors in the role.

Both were appointed by the British Chambers of Commerce Board earlier this month, following an open call to the Chamber Network and a series of interviews held over the summer.

Their appointments follow the retirement by rotation of Stuart Patrick CBE (Glasgow) and Scott Knowles DL (East Midlands) after two full three-year terms, as well as the retirement of Sara Williams OBE at the 2025 AGM.

Their appointments will be taken to Members for election at the 2026 AGM.

Corin said: “As everyone knows, I am passionate believer in the Chamber movement because of the support, the voice and the connections we provide to businesses in our local areas. Through the British Chambers of Commerce and our wider network we are part of an even bigger, stronger group of businesses making our voice on behalf of our members even more powerful.

“I am, therefore, delighted to be taking up this role as a Chamber Network Non-Executive Director.”

National award for Nicholas

A Coventry businessman has picked up a national award after landing a series of major clients.

Nicholas Gould is the founder and CEO of omnigo – a partner of DOJO, the Fintec omnichannel card payment provider that has been a runaway market success since its launch in 2020.

Over the past year, Nicholas has attracted a range of new clients to use DOJO terminals and systems, which include real-time reporting and data to allow businesses to better understand their customers.

omnigo works with companies in all sizes and sectors across Coventry and Warwickshire, particularly in the leisure and hospitality sector.

But it is Nicholas’s work in attracting major national and international brands to utilise DOJO services that saw him honoured with an award.

He picked up the Enterprise Award at DOJO’s National Summit 2025 in London thanks to his track record.

Nicholas said: “I really believe in the product and what it allows our customers to do – and we are innovating all the time.

“Our new handheld pocket card machine is something that is already attracting a lot of interest. But it’s not just the machines themselves, it is the cloud-based platform that sits behind them and the information it gives to our customers that make DOJO products stand out.

“And it is flexible enough to be integrated with businesses' existing EPOS systems and software so we can get to work quickly with a new client.”

Nicholas added: “It shows the size and scale of company that DOJO is and that is why we are trusted partner for those businesses that may only need a couple of payment terminals right through to major national brands.”

“While we are using the very latest technology and systems, my approach to both existing and new clients uses some good old-fashioned values of making sure you look smart, you’re on time and you are there to answer any questions they have.

“Even though we’re in a high-tech world, people still buy from people and that is something I have as a guiding principle for omnigo.”

The news was hot on the heels of omnigo being name number one seller for DOJO, which recently sold a one per cent stake in the business to Vitruvian Partners for £150m, funding further innovation and support.

Nicholas added: “It shows the size and scale of company that DOJO is and that is why we are trusted partner for businesses that many only need a couple of payment terminals right through to major national brands.”

omnigo, a business influence member of the Chamber, is supporting the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards 2026, which is organised by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, as the arrival drinks sponsor.

Raise a cup and be kind this Christmas

A Coventry business leader is appealing to fellow firms to ‘be kind this Christmas’ after launching a campaign to raise money – and awareness – for a local mental health charity.

Mark Farr, the CEO of Purple Planet Packaging, has drawn on personal experience as the business – based on the Seven Stars Industrial Estate – unveiled a Christmas cup with a message of support for Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind (CWW Mind).

The company, which sells responsible packaging and containers for the food and drink industry –from cups to food-trays and from cutlery to takeaway boxes, will donate £2 of profits on each case of its Christmas cups ordered.

The sustainable cups feature the simple message – ‘be kind this Christmas’ – as well as a QR code that takes users to a webpage where they can donate to CWW Mind and explore mental health support available over the festive period.

The campaign has already gained support from the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce and Councillor Rachel Lancaster, the Lord Mayor of Coventry.

Mark said: “I know from personal experience that people still find it hard to talk about mental health issues because there is still that stigma. There is still a thought for some people – especially men –that we should hide our feelings.

“I have been through it myself so I know what it is like and that is why I wanted to support CWW Mind with this campaign this Christmas.

“It is a brilliant charity to work with and we’re encouraging businesses to get involved with supporting the campaign. Of course, it’s about raising funds but also about awareness too so we can get more and more people speaking out.”

CWW Mind will earmark any funds raised to support its community allotments based close to the Arches Industrial Estate in the city.

The allotments offer a sanctuary to those facing mental health issues as space to grow fresh produce, much of which is sold on or turned into products such as chutney.

Steven Hill, the CEO CWW Mind, said: “We are delighted to be working with Purple Planet Packaging on this campaign.

“We like to dedicate this kind of fundraising to our allotments because then everyone who supports it can see the tangible benefits of their donations.”

Cllr Lancaster added: “Purple Planet Packaging is a great example of a Coventry company that wants to give back to the city in so many ways and this is a fantastic initiative in the run up to Christmas.

“Be kind this Christmas is a simple but very powerful message and one that we can all get behind.”

Gurprit Singh, of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “We’re encouraging businesses to get behind this campaign – it might mean purchasing just one case of cups, which will see vital funds being donated to CWW Mind.” For more information or to donate go to the JustGiving page at https://www.justgiving.com/ page/purpleplanetpackaging

Return of Take That’s

The Circus

Live heading to a stadium near you

Global superstars Take That have announced they will be hitting the road next summer with the return of their iconic live show The Circus Live – including highly anticipated dates at Coventry Building Society Arena.

The band will play 11 stadium shows across the summer, with special guests The Script and Belinda Carlisle.

Originally staged in 2009, The Circus Live broke UK records as the fastest-selling tour in history, with over 600,000 tickets sold in under five hours, and over one million fans attending the sell-out shows across the UK and Ireland. Fans were wowed from beginning to end at the shows with a visual feast that included fire-breathers, stilt-walkers, clowns, acrobats, tap dancers, and a huge 30-foot-tall mechanical elephant, which carried the band through the audience.

Now, more than 17 years later, Take That are ready to bring the magic back for a whole new generation of fans, and for those who were there the first time, with the chance to revisit one of the most groundbreaking live productions in UK pop history - bigger and bolder than ever.

In a statement, the band said: The Circus tour was one of our favourite experiences as a band and, in the years since, we've talked many times about how much we'd love to do it again one day. Well, that time has come! We're so excited to welcome audiences old and new across the UK and Ireland to the spectacle of The Circus Live next summer. See you out there!”

Take That - The Circus Live - Summer 2026, will kick off at St Mary’s Stadium in Southampton on May 29, with the band then playing a string of huge stadium dates in Coventry, Sunderland, Glasgow, Cardiff, Manchester, and the London Stadium before heading to Dublin’s Aviva Stadium for the final show on July 4. Tickets for all shows, which include Coventry for three dates from June 4, are available online.

How to deal with a disputed will

Rising property values, complex family structures and increased public awareness of legal remedies have resulted in a rise in contested Wills. More people are considering claims when they feel unfairly treated or excluded from an estate

The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 (“Inheritance Act 1975”) provides a legal route for certain people to challenge a Will or an intestacy outcome.

Our specialist team at Askews Legal LLP explain who can bring a claim under the Act, the grounds for doing so, how the process works, what remedies are available and practical steps for both claimants and those defending a claim.

Grounds for a claim

A claim can be made where a Will (or intestacy) fails to make reasonable financial provision. For spouses/civil partners, the standard is what’s reasonable for them to receive (not limited to maintenance). For other applicants, the standard is maintenance. Typical scenarios include being excluded from the Will, receiving less than expected, or facing hardship due to insufficient provision.

Ilott v Mitson [2017] UKSC 17 illustrates the approach: an estranged adult daughter’s award was ultimately set at £50,000, with the Supreme Court emphasising that “reasonable financial provision” for non-spouses is about maintenance, not improving overall wealth.

Who can claim?

Not everyone can contest a Will under the Act. Eligible applicants include:

A spouse or civil partner

A former spouse/civil partner (if not remarried)

• A person who cohabited with the deceased for at least two years before death

A child (including adult children) or someone treated as a child of the family (e.g., a stepchild)

Any person financially maintained by the deceased immediately before death and the deceased must have been domiciled in England or Wales at death

Making a claim

Claim are time limited and proceedings are usually issued within six months of the Grant of Probate. Late applications require the court’s permission and are uncommon. Before court, solicitors typically seek early settlement through negotiation or mediation.

Court procedure

If settlement fails, proceedings are issued (typically in the Family or Chancery Division). Defendants usually include executors and affected beneficiaries.

When deciding whether to make an award, the court weighs section 3 factors, including:

The financial resources and needs of the applicant (now and foreseeable)

• The resources and needs of any other applicant and of any beneficiary

The obligations/responsibilities owed by the deceased

• The size and nature of the estate

Any disability of an applicant/beneficiary

Any other relevant matter, including conduct

“Reasonable financial provision” does not mean an equal share.

Possible outcomes

The court has wide discretion in inheritance dispute outcomes. Possible orders include: Lump sums to meet immediate needs

Periodical payments (maintenance)

Transfer of property (e.g., a home for a cohabitee/dependant)

Settlements of property for a period, sometimes reverting to the estate.

Spouses may receive provision similar to divorce outcomes; adult children typically

receive more modest, needs-based awards; cohabitees may obtain housing-related relief

Practical tips

Act quickly: Missing the six-month window can bar a claim unless permission is granted. Executors should pause distribution if a potential claim emerges.

Gather evidence: Applicants should collect financial records, dependency proof, and correspondence. Executors defending claims should keep clear estate accounts.

Costs and risks: Litigation can be expensive and risky on costs. Mediation is often a quicker, less stressful route.

Executors facing claims: Remain neutral, administer the estate carefully, and seek directions from the court if needed to avoid personal liability.

Summary

The Inheritance (Provision for Family and Dependants) Act 1975 provides a structured route for eligible applicants to claim reasonable financial provision, but strict time limits, evidential requirements, and financial risks make it vital to act carefully.

If you think you have been left without reasonable provision, or you are an executor/beneficiary facing a claim get in touch with the team at Askews today https://askewslegal.co/contact

Coventry Rugby kicks off a new era of matchday hospitality with partnership

Coventry Rugby is proud to unveil an exciting new chapter in its matchday experience for the 2025/26 season, as the club partners with AC Events Catering to deliver a first-class hospitality offering in the newly rebranded Tutors & Exams Platinum Marquee.

This collaboration marks a significant step forward in Coventry Rugby’s commitment to creating unforgettable matchday moments – both on and off the pitch. Guests can look forward to a refreshed hospitality experience combining exceptional local cuisine, seamless service, and the vibrant rugby atmosphere the Butts Park Arena is famous for.

The partnership with AC Events Catering, a renowned local provider known for quality and creativity, reflects the club’s continued investment in the local business community and its desire to champion the very best of Coventry.

Matt Cannon, General Manager at Coventry Rugby said: “Our partnership with AC Events Catering and the relaunch of our premium hospitality space as the Tutors & Exams Platinum Marquee signals a new era for our supporters and partners. We’re raising the

enhanced pre-match entertainment, the Tutors & Exams Platinum Marquee promises to be the perfect setting for networking, celebration, and enjoying world-class rugby in style.

A decade of innovation: HORIBA MIRA’s growth celebrated

It is ten years since MIRA officially became part of the HORIBA Group – a decade in which the Nuneaton-based centre has further transformed into a world leader in engineering, testing and collaborative scientific innovation.

Since 2015, HORIBA MIRA has combined its rich heritage with HORIBA’s global reach to make strides across many sectors –from safer vehicles and cleaner propulsion systems to environmental science and diagnostics.

To celebrate this milestone, HORIBA Group Chairman & CEO Atsushi Horiba visited the Nuneaton campus, met with the teams and joined colleagues in a summer celebration.

Reflecting on the past decade, Managing Director Declan Allen highlighted how shared ambition and trust have enabled long-term investment, top-class facilities,

and the evolution of MIRA Technology Park into a global hub for innovation.

One of the most significant recent achievements has been the opening of a HORIBA Analytical Solution Plaza at MIRA Tech Park, a facility that stands at the intersection of HORIBA’s engineering and scientific capabilities.

The Plaza is an advanced collaboration centre designed to give engineers, researchers and scientists hands-on access to HORIBA’s full suite of measurement and analytical technologies.

Offering support for clean energy, advanced manufacturing, clinical diagnostics, environmental science and biopharmaceuticals, it brings together feasibility studies, product demonstrations, technical discussions, training and analytical testing under one roof.

Strategically located next to HORIBA MIRA’s

engineering and testing facilities, the new centre enables close integration between scientific research and engineering application.

This co-location means that product teams can draw on state-of-the-art test environments and technical expertise, enabling solutions to be developed more rapidly and validated more efficiently.

The UK Analytical Solution Plaza is zoned by technology capability. It includes a chemistry laboratory, an open-plan demonstration area, and displays of working technologies. It is also intended to support the academic community, hosting STEM outreach programmes for schools and universities.

For HORIBA MIRA, these developments are natural extensions of its ongoing mission – to invest in talent, build worldclass facilities, and deliver integrated HORIBA solutions that make a difference.

With strengths in areas such as hydrogen fuel cell testing, cybersecurity, environmental engineering, and virtual proving grounds among others, the organisation is pushing boundaries of what’s possible in mobility and beyond.

As Coventry and Warwickshire continues to be a focus for advanced engineering and scientific enterprise, HORIBA MIRA’s decade of progress – capped by the Analytical Solution Plaza – underscores both the region’s capacity for innovation and its role in addressing global challenges.

By serving industry, academia and wider society, HORIBA MIRA is not only celebrating what has been achieved so far but is laying the foundations for what comes next – cleaner energy, safer transport, smarter diagnostics, and better environmental outcomes.

Coventry businesses urged to act on inheritance tax changes

Family-owned and SME businesses in Coventry face major changes to inheritance tax from April 2026, making succession planning more important than ever, says accountancy firm Azets.

From April, Agricultural Property Relief (APR) and Business Property Relief (BPR) will be capped. Full 100 per cent relief will apply only to the first £1 million of qualifying value, with 50 per cent relief on amounts above this. AIM-listed shares will also be limited to 50 per cent relief. Reviewing ownership structures and gifting

strategies now can protect assets and reduce future tax exposure.

And from April 2027, unused pension savings and death benefits may be included in estates for inheritance tax purposes. This could push some individuals above the nil rate band for the first time and create liquidity pressures if estates include illiquid business assets.

Succession planning is a vital part of any business strategy. Yet one in five family business owners do not have an estate plan, and over a third of next-

Simply the best! New business honoured with award

Chadwick Accountants has been named Best New Business in the 2025 Business and Tourism Awards, organised by The Stratford Herald and Stratford District Council.

The award, for companies who have started a business in the last five years, was one of 12 presented at a recent gala dinner ceremony at the Crowne Plaza in Stratford-on-Avon.

Open to all companies within the newspaper’s catchment area, the annual awards bring decision-makers and leaders from across the region together to celebrate business excellence. Other categories include innovation, environmentally-friendly practices, community support, family businesses, charities and tourism attractions.

Key sponsors of the awards include Shakespeare’s England, Stratford-uponAvon Bid, and the Royal Shakespeare Company.

Chadwick Accountants & Bookkeepers was founded in Bidford-on-Avon in 2021, and the independent judging panel recognised the company’s achievements in that period. These include a sixfold increase in turnover, significant team expansion and training support, delivering cost-effective and commercially valuable financial solutions for clients, and engagement and impact with the local community.

generation members are unaware of their parents’ intentions.

Key actions include aligning tax and estate planning with the new rules, developing a five-to-ten-year succession or exit plan, and ensuring fairness among heirs. Acting now allows business owners to protect family wealth, maintain continuity, and manage future tax exposure with confidence.

For expert guidance on business succession or estate planning, the Azets Coventry team can help local businesses prepare for the future.

Rachael Chadwick-Harrison, MD of Chadwick’s, thanked her team for their role in the win, and added: “I honestly can’t put into words how proud I am right now.

“This is exactly why I set up the company – to build a workplace culture we could all be proud of, and deliver a service to clients that genuinely makes a difference. Working with this incredible team every day is a privilege. The dedication, the care, the laughs, the high standards – it’s all of that and more that got us here.”

Whether it is a supply agreement, a services contract, or a complex commercial/joint venture, the business world is built on contracts. Each side depends on the other to meet its obligations, so when one party fails to perform, a breach of contract dispute can quickly develop

At Askews Legal LLP, we see how quickly contract issues can escalate for SMEs and larger organisations. Below are the core steps businesses should take when a contract is broken, from confirming the breach to pursuing remedies and preventing future disputes.

What Counts as a Breach of Contract?

A breach of contract occurs when one party does not fulfil obligations set out in a legally binding agreement. In a business context, this often means:

• Failure to deliver goods on time or of the required quality

• Non-payment for goods or services supplied

Breach of exclusivity or confidentiality clauses

How to deal with a breach of contract dispute RSC appoints renowned voice coach Patsy Rodenburg

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has appointed internationally renowned voice coach Patsy Rodenburg OBE as the Company’s Emeritus Director of Voice.

In this honorary, unpaid position, Patsy will work closely with Daniel Evans and Tamara Harvey, Co-Artistic Directors, to help ensure the RSC remains a global beacon for classical voice training and performance.

Daniel and Tamara jointly commented:

“The voice is the bridge between an actor and an audience, carrying not just words but emotion, character, and connection.

“Voice training is essential, giving actors the tools to bring classical and contemporary texts fully to life.

“As we renew our commitment to making the RSC a world leader in voice training and performance, we do so with our larger purpose in mind, which is to inspire deeper human understanding through the power of theatre, by redefining how Shakespeare’s work and great storytelling connect us all, create opportunities, and bring joy.

“Patsy’s expertise and passion for this work are unparalleled, and we are thrilled to welcome her back to the company."

Patsy said: “Voice is the foundation of all live performance – a craft that has to be so known that it becomes unknown, allowing the performer to become an artist that can engage, move and inspire an audience.

“We need Shakespeare to be fully heard and understood because he teaches us humanity under duress; the test of love, power, fairness and forgiveness. During my career I have been moved by all the great actors, singers and dancers who have given me their knowledge, particularly at the RSC in the 1980s. I’m delighted to share it with the RSC and British theatre, to keep live theatre and important stories alive.”

In addition to advising the RSC on the development of voice work, Patsy is also developing a range of programmes designed to deepen the craft of theatre and classical voice training in performance. These include an actor training programme supported by Jerwood Foundation, supporting teachers in classrooms across the country through the RSC’s Creative Learning work and a communication course with the Royal College of Physicians.

All of this work, which Patsy contributes on an unpaid basis, is helping to shape the future approach of the company to the training and development of artists, educators and beyond.

Not every breach has the same impact. A minor breach might involve late delivery of usable goods. A material breach goes to the heart of the agreement, such as a supplier failing to deliver goods at all. Distinguishing between these categories helps decide whether to terminate or pursue damages.

Confirming the Breach

Before escalating, be certain a breach has occurred. Review the contract, including notice provisions. Consider remedies provided by the contract, such as liquidated damages or cure periods. Finally, gather invoices, delivery notes, correspondence and internal records to show what was agreed and how performance fell short.

Communicate with the Other Party

Once confident of a breach, communicate with the other party.

Start with a friendly call or email

If informal methods fail, send a letter of claim setting out the breach, evidence, and remedy sought

Give the other party a reasonable time to remedy or respond

• Mark communications ‘without prejudice’ at the negotiating stage

Seeking an Amicable Resolution

Litigation is costly and time-consuming, so consider reach a settlement and try to reach an amicable solution via Alternative Dispute Resolution (ADR):

Negotiation: Direct discussions can resolve disputes quickly while preserving relationships

• Mediation: A neutral mediator facilitates agreement

• Arbitration: Common in international contracts and enforceable under the New York Convention, providing a binding, confidential decision

Legal Remedies for Breach of Contract

If settlement fails, options include:

Damages: Financial compensation for losses caused by the breach Specific performance: An order requiring performance

Injunctions: Preventing a party from breaching restrictions

• Rescission: Cancelling the contract and restoring the parties to pre-contract positions

The Litigation Process

Commercial litigation is risky, if you lose your case, it is likely you will have to pay a proportion of the other side’s legal costs. Therefore, we do everything possible to reach a resolution through non-court methods. The breach of contract litigation process for businesses includes:

1. Pre-action protocol: Exchanging letters and exploring settlement

2. Issuing proceedings and serving particulars of claim

3. Defence and reply

4. Case management: Directions for disclosure, witness statements, and expert reports

5. Trial and judgment

6. Enforcement if the losing party does not comply

How to Prevent Future Disputes

Therea are several steps you can take to reduce the likelihood of disputes occurring in the future.

Clear drafting specifying obligations, deadlines, quality standards, and consequences of breach

Dispute resolution clauses emphasising ADR

• Regularly reviewing contracts as relationships evolve

Wrapping up

Swift action is essential: confirm the breach, communicate formally, seek settlement where possible and reserve litigation for only when absolutely necessary. For tailored advice, Askews Legal LLP’s commercial disputes team can help you assess your position, frame effective correspondence and choose the right route to resolution.

Get in touch today https://askewslegal.co/contact

SOS Silence of Suicide and Next unite to empower mental health conversations

SOS Silence of Suicide is proud to be working with Next PLC, which has been proactive and enthusiastic in promoting and sharing SOS’s OPEN Conversations course internally to encourage colleagues to engage in more open, supportive conversations about mental health across the business.

The course, launched last month as part of SOS’s 10th anniversary celebrations, and marking World Suicide Prevention Day, has already seen over 100 completions across a variety of business sectors and industry, representing 100 potential life-saving conversations. Designed to give individuals and teams the confidence to talk about mental health and emotional distress, the course aims to equip businesses with the tools to create compassionate and psychologically safer workplaces.

“At Next, we’re committed to supporting all colleagues by providing easily accessible services, resources and lifestyle information as well as creating an environment where people feel they can speak openly about how they’re feeling,” said Claire Kershaw, Health and Wellbeing Manager at Next PLC.

“The OPEN Conversations course has been a valuable addition to our internal wellbeing

resources. It’s practical, accessible, and it gives our teams the confidence to have those meaningful conversations that can truly make a difference.”

This partnership reflects a shared belief that meaningful change starts with one conversation, and that when businesses take an active role in upskilling their workforce, they help to build cultures of care that extend beyond the workplace.

In a climate where one in six UK workers experience mental health issues each week (ONS, 2024), and poor mental health costs employers more than £56 billion annually (NHS Confederation, 2024), SOS is calling on

more organisations to follow Next’s lead by embedding the course into their wellbeing frameworks.

“Every completion represents one more person who now feels confident to reach out, to ask, to listen, and to care,” said Nick Moore, temporary CEO of SOS Silence of Suicide.

“Next’s collaboration shows the power of businesses stepping forward and taking shared responsibility for suicide prevention and mental health support. Together, we can make workplaces safer, kinder, and more connected.”

The OPEN Conversations course provides a simple, effective approach to talking about mental health, helping people to recognise signs of distress, respond with empathy, and signpost to appropriate support. As well as its free, self-paced online course open to individuals, an extended four-hour business version, delivered by expert trainers, is also available. This tailored version helps organisations such as Next strengthen team communication, reduce stigma, and empower leaders to respond with confidence.

Heart of England Events and Conferencing

A Cracker of a Christmas Deal for Chamber Members – 25% off Team Building!

Make this festive season one to remember with an exclusive Chamber Member offer at the Heart of England Conference and Events Centre — enjoy 25% off all team-building activities booked on weekdays between 1st and 23rd December 2025!

Whether you’re looking to wrap up the year with a morale boost, reward your hard-working team, or simply celebrate the season with something a little different, our festive team-building experiences are the perfect mix of fun, laughter, and connection.

Nestled in the heart of Coventry, the Heart of England is famous for its stunning outdoor spaces, creative event packages, and top-tier facilities. From cosy indoor challenges to adrenaline-

filled outdoor adventures, there’s something to suit every team. Our expert event planners will handle all the details — you just bring the festive spirit (and maybe a Santa hat or two).

The only ‘Claus’: Bookings must be made for weekdays up to 23rd December to claim this cracking 25% discount.

With festive décor, delicious food options, and plenty of Christmas cheer, it’s the perfect way to celebrate your team’s achievements and set the stage for a brilliant 2026. But be quick — spaces fill up faster than Santa’s sleigh on Christmas Eve! And if you haven’t booked your Christmas Party yet… what are you waiting for? Tickets are flying!

Celebrating 20 years of connecting talent

thefutureworks has proudly celebrated 20 years of connecting talent, having recruited and placed over 15,000 people with Coventry University and local employers across Coventry and Warwickshire.

Founded in 2005, thefutureworks was established with a clear vision to connect talent with opportunity.

Over two decades, the agency has grown into a trusted partner, providing tailored recruitment services. From entry-level positions to senior appointments, from SMEs to headquarter operations, matching individuals across job and industry sectors in predominantly, commercial, professional services and engineering roles.

A distinctive contribution of the agency is its support for Coventry University students. By offering temporary work alongside studies, thefutureworks has helped thousands of students gain valuable experience while earning a part-time income.

This approach enables students not only to succeed academically but also to graduate with enhanced employability skills.

With strong links to employers, thefutureworks has helped graduates take their first steps into permanent roles and individuals from across the region to advance in their careers, building a reputation for nurturing talent and fostering growth.

Reflecting on 20 years, the team notes major changes in recruitment, including digital transformation, hybrid working, and increasingly, AI.

Looking ahead, as the future workforce is shaped by Gen Z and Gen Alpha, AI will continue to influence the emergence and evolution of roles.

Yet, at the centre of recruitment remain people, and thefutureworks remains committed to what lies at the heart of a people service including genuine relationships and meaningful conversations.

As thefutureworks celebrates this milestone, it does so with gratitude to the candidates, employers and colleagues who have been part of our journey.

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks -

Blunt & Brave in the national spotlight

A North Warwickshire company just missed out a national award after being named a digital revolutionary in the region.

Blunt & Brave, which was founded six years ago by Emilia Moniszko and Kirk Hastings, is a creative studio offering everything from video production to social media content.

While clients include the likes of Welsh National Opera through to the University of Warwick, it specialises in working with charities, social enterprises and community projects by helping them to build recognisable brands and support with their storytelling.

The company – which got its name from the notion of wanting to work with blunt and brave organisations making change and impact within their communities and industries – launched a Digital Academy in 2024 to help support local young people with creative digital skills by bringing industry professionals directly into contact with young creatives.

It has seen them offer workshops in video production, VR/AR, podcasting and other digital disciplines.

The positive impact of the Digital Academy led to Blunt & Brave picking up the Creative and Cultural Activator Award, sponsored by Warwickshire County Council, at this year’s Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards, which are organised by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce.

Following the company’s victory on a local level, the Chamber of Commerce nominated Blunt & Brave in the British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) Chamber Business Awards 2025. The company was successfully shortlisted and, in early October, was announced as a Regional Winner in the Business of the Year – Digital Revolution category, supported by HP Life with Intel.

The business progressed to the next stage of the BCC’s awards but just missed out on the national prize.

Kirk said: “We were absolutely thrilled to be representing Coventry and Warwickshire at the BCC’s Chamber Business Awards 2025. We were delighted to pick up the award at the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards and didn’t expect it to go even further.

“To be recognised in this way and be alongside only eight other companies from across the UK in this category was amazing in and of itself.

“We established the business six years ago after both of us had worked in higher education, charities/not-for-profits and for other companies amongst the creative industries.

“We felt our skills and experience could combine to create a highly productive powerhouse. We know the industry and we’ve been the people within it and it was our vision to offer a service that provided for them.

“We are extremely proud to have been able to support small, local charities that make direct impact within our communities as well as provide our expertise to shape

communications for national organisations and campaigns.

“Now, with the Digital Academy, it’s an exciting further step in our venture to encourage the next generation of creative activators to make their imprint within the upcoming digital revolution.

“So, to be in a position where we were considered for a national award was really special for us.”

Chris Nagle, head of events, marketing and communications at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “Emilia and Kirk are passionate, entrepreneurial and making waves in the digital and creative sector through both their direct work with clients and the work they are doing through the Digital Academy.

“They were very deserving winners at our own awards earlier this year and to see them on the national stage is great for them – and for the region.”

To find out how to enter and more information on the Coventry & Warwickshire Business and Community Awards 2026 go to https://www.cw-chamber.co.uk/awards/

MP gives ‘powerhouse’ message to Coventry businesses

Businesses in Coventry have been told they can help to make the city a powerhouse of the region – and the country – by a local MP.

Taiwo Owatemi, the MP for Coventry North West, met local firms at the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Coventry Local Business Forum at the Anglican Chapel in the grounds of London Road Cemetery.

The MP said investment in skills and transport would help to drive forward the regional economy and cited City Centre South, Friargate, the Cultural Gateway and VLR as examples that would help to transform Coventry.

She said: “I would like to thank every business – big and small – for everything that they do for our city and the jobs they create.

“Growing the economy is all about partnership and I want to work together with businesses to help them achieve their aims.

“I am proud to represent Coventry and to see the transformation that is starting to take place.

“We can be a powerhouse of the West Midlands and, indeed, the whole country when you look at all of our attributes as a city and the businesses we have here.”

The event also heard from Andrew Todd, the University of Warwick’s director of regional strategy and partnerships, as the University rose to eighth in

The Times and Sunday Times Good University Guide.

He outlined the many ways the University links with business – from research through to support – as well as providing graduates, interns and students for projects into local companies.

The final presentation was by Adam Hunt, the head of property and development at Coventry City Council, on City Centre South.

He told the gathered businesses that the scheme had shifted from being retail-led to focussing on city centre homes and how the £450m development would make Coventry city centre a ‘24/seven’ economy.

Tim Squires, chair of the Coventry Local Business Forum, said: “It was fantastic to have three excellent speakers, and the event brought us right up to date with key developments in the city.

“City Centre South has been discussed many times at our forum, so it is great to see the progress being made there and we know the amazing contribution the University of Warwick makes to the regional economy. Alongside Coventry University, we are blessed to have two incredible universities in our city.

“It was also great to hear Taiwo Owatemi speaking so positively about the city and the crucial relationship between businesses and decision makers.”

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks -

Rugby

Karen signs off with a message to firms in Rugby

A leading figure in Rugby signed off in her role as chair of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce’s Local Business Forum by urging firms to continue to make their voice heard.

Karen Shuter chaired the latest meeting –which included a conversation with Rugby MP John Slinger – at Rugby Borough Council’s Unity Hub, which is based at the Town Hall. The event also featured a presentation from Neil Holly, development strategy manager at Rugby Borough Council, on the borough’s local plan.

Karen has chaired the forum for almost a decade – a period that has seen firms have to deal with a range of national and international issues from Brexit to Covid.

She said: “I have been incredibly proud to chair this group for almost ten years and it has been a privilege to get to know so many local companies and leaders who want the best for Rugby and the surrounding borough.

“It has been an uncertain and unpredictable period for businesses and I have seen, first hand, how the Chamber has stepped forward in those times to support companies of all sizes and sectors.

“We’ve also provided a voice into decisionmakers and this meeting was a case in point.

“We were delighted to welcome John Slinger to the meeting who updated us on the economy and then took questions from businesspeople on everything from National

Insurance through to support for young people.

“Neil Holly gave a very insightful presentation on the local plan and I’d urge businesses to ensure they engage with that process to make sure their voice is heard.

“More broadly, that would be my message to companies as I stand down from this role. In these rapidly changing times, businesses needed to talk about the issues affecting them and there is no better vehicle than the Chamber to do that.”

Neil said the local plan included more than 1,000,000 square metres of employment space across several sites in the borough.

John Slinger MP said that firms had faced difficult times but that the Government was pro-business.

He urged companies to keep him informed of the issues they are facing so he could feed them back in Westminster.

John said: “I’d like to thank Karen Shuter for all her dedicated work for the business community in Rugby and beyond.

“I am extremely proud to represent Rugby and I believe there is a huge amount of potential for the borough.

“From a broader Government policy point of view, we’re changing the planning rules to support growth; we’ve secured trade deals with the USA, India and the EU; and we’re changing the rules around the apprenticeship

“I understand these have been difficult times for businesses and I urge them to keep feeding back to me so I can take that message to ministers.”

Corin Crane, chief executive of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, said: “I’d like to say thank you to Neil and John for joining the meeting and bringing such insightful updates.

“I would also like to pay tribute to Karen for all of her dedication and diligence in chairing our Rugby Local Business Forum for almost a decade and thank her for the incredible contribution she has made.”

Anyone who like to put themselves forward as the new chair of the forum should contact Brenda Scholtz, executive office manager at the Chamber, at brendas@cw-chamber.co.uk

Business-led think tank launched to make inclusion a competitive advantage

A new business-led think tank has been launched in Coventry and Warwickshire to help organisations turn inclusion into a strategic advantage – and boost their bottom line.

OPTIC, which is backed by the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, brings together 12 regional business and civic leaders with a shared vision to redefine inclusive leadership for a future-ready economy.

The group, which is co-chaired by Natasha Broomfield-Reid – the founder and director of Diverse Matters; and Chris Golby – the founder of CultureNav, will be meeting every two months to identify the issues and opportunities and come up with clear, tangible solutions.

Its initial focus is around three areas –inclusive leadership, inclusive recruitment strategies and inclusive growth through training.

The thinking behind OPTIC is to not only enhance inclusion in businesses in Coventry and Warwickshire because it is the right thing to do but to underline how more inclusive companies are driven to be more profitable. The first meeting heard evidence on how firms with inclusive leadership teams are more likely to perform better, be more innovative and have better decision-making processes.

Kalie Sahota, who brings more than 25 years of experience across corporate, public, and not-for-profit sectors, was instrumental in its formation and is the Chamber’s representative on the group. She said OPTIC – which stands for Outcomes, Performance, Transformation, Inclusion and Culture – would showcase the true benefits of inclusivity for business and wider society.

Kalie said: “The evidence shows that companies that are embracing diversity and inclusion in the UK and across the world make better decisions and innovate faster.

“Improving processes in the workplace to be more inclusive is the right thing to do but it has real impacts on the bottom line too.

“By tapping into the widest pool of talent available, any business gives itself an opportunity to build a leadership team with a wide range of skills and ideas, positioning them for sustainable growth now and in the future”

As well as Kalie, Chris and Natasha, the OPTIC group includes:

- Gemma Hathaway, assistant head teacher with the Inspire Education Trust

- Tina Chander, partner with Wright Hassall LLP

- Dawn and Peter Quick, directors of No Boundaries Disability Consultancy

- Charlie Ward, ED&I officer at WMG

- Richard Easter, director of The Yard

- Shari Lewison-Frisch, project management officer at Kapsch TrafficCom

- Dawood Ibthehsam, a McDonald’s Franchisee in Warwickshire

- Paulina Patrykowska, director of SLT Media

- Andy Williams, director of regeneration and economy at Coventry City Council

Natasha Broomfield-Reid added:

“I am thrilled to be co-chairing OPTIC. The importance of Equity, Diversity and Inclusion is not fully understood in how it enhances business success.

“This group will be working to change this and to support businesses with evidenced, data-driven and qualitative information and guidance.

“The group also aims to defy myths and misunderstandings regarding equity and inclusion so the business benefits are fully understood by business across Coventry and Warwickshire.”

Hot off the press: It’s not too late to book festivities

This Christmas season is shaping up to be another busy one at The Telegraph Hotel, with limited availability remaining for its popular joiner party nights.

Festive Fayre afternoon teas, lunches, and dinners are all still available within the elegant Forme & Chase restaurant at the venue.

As Coventry looks ahead to the New Year, The Telegraph Hotel is redefining what it means to do business – offering an experience that blends smart thinking with mid-century elegance.

Once home to the city’s newspaper, this 1950s landmark has been reborn with mid-century glamour and a modern edge. From warm woods to industrial lines, and statement lighting that nod to the golden age of print, the venue offers an inspiring backdrop for events of all kinds.

From intimate gatherings in the Boardroom and Directors room to dynamic conferences, training sessions, or networking events in the Editors Suite, every space is designed to impress – flexible, functional, and full of character, and accommodating anything from a handful of guests to up to 140 delegates.

When it’s time to refuel, Forme & Chase restaurant offers freshly crafted menus under a beautifully designed glazed atrium. Guests can also choose to stay the night in rooms which combine mid-century texture with modern comfort. At The Telegraph Hotel, business is more than an agenda – it’s an experience.

The Heart of England welcomes national spotlight with The Hotel Inspector

Channel 5’s popular series The Hotel Inspector with Alex Polizzi.

The episode focused on the property’s on-site accommodation, formerly known as Old Hall House, which after Alex’s expert guidance has been relaunched as Heart House.

The Heart of England has long been known locally as a versatile venue, offering everything from corporate events and weddings to family days out.

But, like many hospitality businesses, the accommodation side had faced challenges in standing out in a competitive market.

The opportunity to work with The Hotel Inspector was both a nerve-wracking and exciting step, bringing with it an honest appraisal of the business, fresh ideas for improvement, and a national television audience.

Managing Director Stephen Hammon appeared on the show alongside his daughters, Frankie and Georgie, making the experience a true family effort. Together, they worked with Alex Polizzi to take a fresh look at the accommodation and implement changes to help the business thrive.

The transformation into Heart House has already begun to make its mark. With clearer branding, a stronger identity, and an improved guest experience, the team has seen a boost in bookings and occupancy since the episode aired.

Guests are responding positively not only to the refurbished spaces but also to the renewed confidence and energy that the rebrand represents. The programme also

highlighted the importance of partnerships in hospitality.

Experience gift company Wonderdays visited the property during filming, showing how collaborations can open doors to new audiences.

With the popularity of experience days on the rise, this link offers opportunities for Heart House to attract customers looking for more than just a stay – but a memorable experience.

For the Heart of England team, the TV appearance has been more than a

makeover – it has been a catalyst for growth, innovation, and renewed ambition. Being featured on a national platform has raised awareness of the venue well beyond Coventry, bringing in visitors who might otherwise never have discovered this hidden gem.

Stephen said: “Appearing on The Hotel Inspector has been a real turning point for us. Heart House now has a strong identity, and we’re excited to welcome even more guests in the months ahead.”

Two Grade A office suites available in historic building

Two Grade A office suites are available for rent in an iconic building on the historic Midlands site of the UK’s first artificial silk factory.

Bromwich Hardy is marketing the spaces in Tower Court on Courtaulds Way in Coventry, where Samuel Courtauld and Company first spun viscose yarn back in 1905.

The property, which has total space of more than 54,000 sq ft, was imaginatively refurbished at the turn of the millennium, winning a Coventry Design Award in 2001.

Now Bromwich Hardy, which manages the building, has completely refurbished the large reception area, a project which follows its successful renovation of the first floor last year.

The two office suites available to rent are on the ground and first floors, measuring 5,079 sq ft and 5,022 sq ft respectively.

Allan Watts, facilities manager at Bromwich Hardy, said: “The building was first completed in the early 2000s, so parts had become dated.

“The Tower Court reception was already an impressive area, with a glazed entrance andimpressive first floor terrace.

“Our modern refurbishment now includes moss walls with slatted wooden surrounds,

complemented by neutral tones and modernised lighting effects.

“We have also overseen the installation of nine new EV chargers at the front of the building, next to the car park, and two out of three lifts in the building are now being upgraded.”

Bromwich Hardy looks after Tower Court for Priory RE Ltd, a Dutch-owned real estate company.

The refurbishment project involved Jackson Lifts, a fit-out by Work Box UK, which had previously helped on first floor renovations, and Voltix, a mechanical and electrical

contractor, which commissioned Swift Charging for the EV work.

Mark Booth, senior surveyor at Bromwich Hardy, added: “The reception and available space at Tower Court have been extensively refurbished to a Grade A specification.

“There is a manned reception and shared first floor terrace, and the two office suites we are marketing include raised flooring, air conditioning and suspended ceilings with LED lighting.

“There is generous parking available, with 25 spaces for each suite, and excellent public transport is close by, with a bus stop directly opposite.”

Tower Court is located around one mile north of Coventry city centre on the A4113 Foleshill Road, a main arterial route into the city and onto the M6 motorway about three miles away.

Flexible terms are available on a new lease for the two suites, with rent based on £17 per square foot per annum.

Any business interested in the Tower Court office suites can contact Mr Booth at mark.booth@bromwichhardy.com, or his colleagues Tom Bromwich at tom.bromwich@bromwichhardy.com or Rob Lord rob.lord@bromwichhardy.com.

Lloyds Bank quiz night raises almost £7,000 for The Myton Hospices

When all the scores were added up and checked over in detail, it revealed that the team from Azets had regained their title.

Claire Carr, Relationship Director for Lloyds Bank, said: “We’re delighted that our quiz has raised so much money for Myton. It was a really fun evening, a very competitive quiz, but best of all was the knowledge that we were raising so much money for such a good cause.”

Martin Watts, Corporate Fundraiser at The Myton Hospices, said: “We are incredibly grateful to Lloyds Bank for their ongoing support and the amazing impact they have on our patients and their families.

“The generosity of people and organisations in our community ensures that those living with life-limiting illnesses can access the care and services they need and deserve.”

'Tis the season of special festive events

Coventry’s Christmas countdown is officially on after families witnessed the “Real Santa” making his early festive rounds in the city.

Father Christmas has been spotted at Coombe Abbey Hotel and St Mary’s Guildhall, where he will return for a season of special festive events – as he gears up to raise money for charities across the Midlands for a fifth year running.

Paul Sharp, who is rumoured to be the real St Nick thanks to his undeniable festive spirit and impressive white beard, has helped raise over £10,000 for charity since 2021 – and will once again be donating a portion of the proceeds from his visits this year to Zoe’s Place Baby Hospice.

The Wyken resident, who says he splits his time between the West Midlands and the North Pole, paid a visit to the historic attractions to tell staff about his plans for this year’s festivities.

at Ansty Park.

More than 25 teams took part in a highly competitive quiz, whilst also enjoying a delicious meal prepared by MTC Events staff, who donated their time for free to support Myton.

The evening showed incredible generosity on the part of Lloyds Bank and all the quizzers in attendance. Thanks to them, the event initially raised £3,426 but Lloyds Bank offered to match that total through its Charity Foundation, meaning almost £7,000 will be going to Myton to support patients and their families.

This year, it cost £15.3 million to continue providing Myton’s services free of charge to patients and their families. Myton is a charity which only receives 17 per cent of its funding from the NHS. This means it has to raise £12.7 million per year to ensure people c an access the support they need, which is more than £1 million each month.

Realising the strategic value of local supply chains

Improvements to supply chain stability, fewer vulnerabilities and stronger relationships are just some of the enormous benefits of moving toward more local supply chains.

In this first-person article, Paul Long, Director at FindItIn, discusses the multitude of ways such shifts are benefiting businesses – and how you could too.

Offshoring was one of the biggest business trends at the turn of the century but, by the time of the 2008/9 financial crisis, the gloss was already beginning to wear off.

Concerns around jobs, quality and service levels, as well as financial interdependence, encouraged many businesses to review their options, and moves to “re-shore” key services only accelerated in the wake of the Brexit referendum and COVID-19 pandemic, both of which exposed global supply chain vulnerabilities.

This trend towards developing more local supply chains is about building smarter, more resilient supply chains that are less vulnerable to global geopolitical shocks. It’s an approach that can not only improve supply chain stability but also offers a range of benefits beyond the bottom line: from the economic boost of local job creation to stronger community and customer relationships and even environmental and procurement gains.

For example, local sourcing helps reduce Scope 3 emissions for organisations grappling with Net Zero commitments, which are often the largest part of a company’s carbon footprint. Shorter

transport distances mean lower emissions, while greater supply chain visibility enables more accurate sustainability reporting.

Similarly, as public procurement moves away from seeking the ‘most economically advantageous tender’ (MEAT), towards a focus on social value through ‘most advantageous tender’ (MAT), procurement teams are now able to score submissions that offer wider value to the local community more highly than those competing purely on price.

This means that the environmental, economic, community and wellbeing impacts of using local supply chains can all positively impact on commercial success.

Being known as a business that invests in local communities can also provide a

competitive advantage when it comes to recruitment and retention, while quality control can also be improved as regular site visits and more direct relationships with local suppliers create accountability that is harder to achieve with more geographically dispersed teams.

So, how can businesses go about building effective, resilient local supply chains?

Start by mapping out existing supply chains and then conducting honest capability assessments to understand where gaps exist, savings can be made, or additional support may be required in future.

Once clear needs have been identified, the next step is to develop your knowledge of the market. Alongside desk research, industry and local networking events can be a great way to find out more about local suppliers and obtain first-hand recommendations.

Specialist ‘meet the buyer’ events can offer a more focused, time-effective route to growing networks in a targeted way, identifying businesses you would like to work with while staying abreast of valuable, industry-specific procurement opportunities that could boost growth and shape future strategy. Even in global marketplaces, local knowledge is king when it comes to developing long-term business relationships.

Building local supply chains – whether around a business’s offices or the projects they are working on – is not about protectionism but creating businesses fit for an uncertain future, whose strong local roots mean they can predict and respond to changing market pressures effectively.

Joined by his helpers, Paul will host Storytelling with Father Christmas at St Mary’s Guildhall, which will feature gingerbread decorating, a selection box for each child, and plenty of photo opportunities on November 29 and December 6, 13, 20 and 22 – with a relaxed session available on November 29.

He is also on course to stop by Coombe Abbey Hotel on December 7, 14, 21 and 23, where he will make a special visit to each table enjoying a three-course festive lunch, with a gift for every child.

The former police constable and driving instructor said it was a joy to be back at the venues and raising money for a good cause.

As well as visiting Zoe’s Place in the north of the city to speak to families and attend Christmas events, Paul’s Christmas itinerary also includes events at The Millpool on Hipswell Highway.

He said: “Christmas 2025 is fast approaching and I’m incredibly excited to be returning to Coombe Abbey Hotel and St Mary’s Guildhall for a pair of very special events at these historic settings.

“Both are special places to celebrate the holiday season, and it’s great to be working alongside them once again to ensure festive cheer is in good supply for visitors of all ages and their families.”

Ron Terry, Group Operations Director at No Ordinary Hospitality, said: “Santa loves visiting Coombe and St Mary’s and so do our guests, who travel far and wide to join us at this time of year – the history and atmosphere of both places make them truly special locations to get into the Christmas spirit.

“Paul does a fantastic job supporting some incredible causes every year, so it was a privilege to welcome him back as we gear up for another jam-packed festive period together.”

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North

A city united for good –Coventry’s charity day is a record breaker

Seventeen Coventry and Warwickshire charities joined forces at Coventry Cathedral for a spectacular day of fundraising, networking, and an abseiling challenge earlier this year.

From the first abseil at 9.30am to the last one at 4.30 pm, the air above the Cathedral was filled with excitement, cheering, and purpose. A total of 118 brave challengers abseiled down the iconic building to raise funds for causes that touch the lives of people across the city and county.

Their efforts were rewarded with an extraordinary sum of more than £50,000 raised for local charities, mostly powered by volunteers and part-time staff.

The event showcased the strength of community partnership as participating charities included Coventry Cathedral and Ruins, Clothing Coventry, Coventry, Warwickshire and Worcestershire Mind, MS Therapy Centre, Naylors Ark, Carriers of Hope, Violet Project, UHCW, Feed the Hungry, City Mission and Emmaus Coventry & Warwickshire, supporting local people.

Crucially, local businesses stepped forward too. Companies such as E.ON sponsored a rope with £2,000 and raised more than £5,000 for CWW Mind. Angels Solicitors funded two abseilers, contributing more than £500 to support the cathedral’s maintenance and repair costs.

Costco added its support with a generous cheque to cover hosting expenses.

Independent traders and small businesses brought energy and vibrancy to the day, with stalls filled with local goods and treats.

One of the vendors, Bake to the Future, summed it up by saying: “It was a great event, and I only had a couple of cakes left, to the disappointment of my work colleagues on Monday!”

At a time when many local charities face increasing pressure to do more with less, every pound raised represents not just funding, but hope, resilience and purpose.

Coventry Cathedral has already announced plans to run the event again in 2026, on May 30, promising another day of fundraising, unity and networking.

To find out more or get involved, contact Mandy or Rachel on fundraising@coventrycathedral.org.uk or visit https://www.coventrycathedral.org. uk/get-involved/fundraising/charity-abseil

Record ranking performance for law firm

Employee-owned firm Talbots Law has earned recognition across six departments in the 2025 Legal 500 rankings, with four ranked and two named Firms to Watch for 2026.

The firm’s Commercial Litigation and Company-Commercial teams maintained their Tier 2 and Tier 4 positions, while its Family and Trusts & Probate departments entered the listings for the first time at Tiers 3 and 4, respectively.

In addition, Talbots’ Contentious Probate and Personal Injury (Claimant) teams were highlighted as Firms to Watch for 2026, following a year of exceptional growth.

The Personal Injury team also gained national media attention for a notable clinical negligence case earlier in 2025. These achievements mark another milestone in Talbots’ impressive trajectory. Over the past four years, the firm has secured strong Legal 500 rankings, received numerous national and regional awards, and increased turnover from £18 million in 2021 to over £40 million in 2025.

Dave Hodgetts, CEO of Talbots Law, said: “Our business is synonymous with delivering high-quality commercial and private client legal services through an employeeownership model that empowers our people.

“This recognition is a testament to their commitment and expertise. Congratulations to all our teams. Our focus now turns to building on these results in 2026.”

Founded in the West Midlands, Talbots became the region’s first employee-owned law firm in 2021. Since then, it has acquired six firms, expanded to 19 offices across six counties, and now employs more than 600 people.

For more information about Talbots Law and its legal services, visit www.talbotslaw.co.uk

RSC 2026 season gets off to big name start

The Royal Shakespeare Company (RSC) has announced full details of its spring 2026 season, which sees multi-award-winning actor and filmmaker Kenneth Branagh make a return to Stratford-upon-Avon for the first time in over 30 years, alongside Academy Award-winning actress Helen Hunt and double Olivier Award-winning actor Mark Gatiss in their RSC debuts.

The season features five productions, with the programme bringing together globally renowned and emerging talents to tell stories that speak directly to our world now, united in their exploration of what bonds individuals to home, family and country.

Marking his historic return to the company in two productions running across summer 2026, Kenneth Branagh plays Prospero in an epic new staging of William Shakespeare’s The Tempest, directed by the esteemed Sir Richard Eyre, and Lopakhin, alongside Academy Award-winning actress Helen Hunt, who makes her company debut as Madame Ranyevskaya, in a new version of Anton Chekhov’s The Cherry Orchard by Laura Wade, directed by Tamara Harvey.

The Tempest plays from Wednesday, May 13, in the Royal Shakespeare Theatre. Also making his debut is double Olivier Awardwinning actor and writer Mark Gatiss, who takes on the title role in Bertolt Brecht’s biting political satire on Hitler’s ascent to power, The Resistible Rise of Arturo Ui, in

a version by Stephen Sharkey, directed by Seán Linnen.

The production will play in the Swan Theatre from Saturday, April 11. In The Other Place, Martina Laird makes her playwrighting debut from Friday, April 17, with Driftwood, shortlisted for the 2024 Verity Bargate Award.

This deeply evocative story of selfdetermination, family and belonging, directed by Justin Audibert, is set against the backdrop of colonial Trinidad on the edge of political independence.

Meanwhile, the Unicorn Theatre’s Artistic Director Rachel Bagshaw directs a riotous

Launch of new networking group as inaugural President announced

Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce member Kate Rouse has been appointed inaugural President of BNI Shakespeare, the new local chapter of the Business Network International networking organisation.

Kate is the managing director of Hamilton Rouse, the Alderminster-based PR, marketing and travel specialists.

The multi-faceted company handles the promotional activities of local and national clients, organises incentives and business events, and will soon be launching Food & Drink Warwickshire magazine to showcase the region’s vibrant culinary scene.

BNI Shakespeare covers Stratford-on[1] Avon and the surrounding region, and meets

weekly at The Riverside Venue at Avon Estates in Stratford.

It welcomes both members and guests looking to increase their business through a structured, positive and professional referral marketing programme that enables them to develop long-term, meaningful relationships with fellow business professionals.

Business Network International (BNI) is the world’s largest business networking organisation, with over 40 years of continuous growth, and has more than 335,000 members worldwide.

In the UK and Ireland alone, more than £538m of business is passed between members each year. For further details on BNI Shakespeare kate@hamiltonrouse.com

family- friendly re-telling of William Shakespeare’s A Midsummer Night’s Dream, running from Saturday, March 21, before moving to The Other Place, Stratford-upon Avon from Friday, June 19.

Co-Artistic Directors Tamara Harvey and Daniel Evans said: “When we set out as the Co-Artistic Directors of the Royal Shakespeare Company, we were united by a belief in the RSC as a home for radical and resonant theatre – inspired by Shakespeare and made by the most exciting artists from across the globe.

“Two years after our arrival, that commitment remains at the heart of everything we do.

“We look forward to welcoming a new generation of artists and audiences to the RSC in 2026 and beyond.”

Completing the announcement and building on the company’s programming for young audiences and families, Ready Steady Colour’s Christmas Feast visits The Other Place from Wednesday, December 10 this year into 2026, until Saturday, January 3, with a fun-filled serving of creativity, comedy and music. This 55-minute festive experience by A Line Art invites children and adults to take a seat at a make-believe Christmas restaurant, in an interactive, live experience where audiences of all ages become artists of a festive mealtime with a twist.

Arena’s sights set on global music growth as venue goes from strength to strength

Coventry Building Society Arena has its sights on global live music growth following a record-breaking run of show announcements.

The venue, which also operates as Coventry Building Society Stadium, is aiming to attract more big names after reestablishing itself as one of the UK’s most exciting and adaptable spaces for live music and entertainment.

Last year the arena launched CBS Live, its dedicated live events platform to unite music and entertainment under one identity, and has seen a strong resurgence in music events since its introduction.

Its new approach is attracting more promoters, agents and artists to consider the venue - with Bryan Adams, Sean Paul and Tom Grennan recently performing sell-out shows in the indoor arena.

The venue will also see Bob Dylan bringing his latest tour to the arena this month and Ed Sheeran performing an intimate show in December.

The series of high-profile announcements culminated in the return of outdoor stadium bowl concerts to the venue, with Take That performing three back-to-back nights in June 2026.

It will mark the return of major stadium performances for the first time since Harry Styles and Arctic Monkeys in 2023, with other performances over its 20-year history coming from the Rolling Stones, Oasis, The Killers, Bon Jovi, Bruce Springsteen, P!NK and many more.

The arena, which offers four entertainment venues under one roof: the 40,500 live music-capacity stadium bowl, 10,000-capacity indoor arena, 2,000-capacity hall and 650-seat auditorium, has also been developing a schedule of smaller music and comedy events.

Chris Owen, Head of Venue Operations, said the venue has been working to build trusted relationships with promoters and is hoping to continue to attract major names. The arena has been investing significantly to improve operational expertise.

“It’s been a really strong period for the arena. It’s the result of a lot of hard work from the team, investment and working to a clear strategy,” he said.

“It’s a competitive market and every show we host has to make financial sense for both sides, so we have worked to get our cost base right, improve operational efficiency and ensure we are offering added value to events.

“For us it has been about finding our niche and what we can offer differently to other competitors. We have focused on our flexibility and building a team that goes the extra mile at every stage.”

This has included training for staff in globally recognised health and safety qualifications.

Chris added: “Our aim is to make the experience as easy as we can for promoters. We have 20 years of experience behind us to do that.

“For stadium shows we are working on giving every event a festival feel, with promoters able to utilise spaces throughout the venue to make the experience even more special for fans.

“We’re hoping to continue to attract big names to the venue and build our live music offering, which not only benefits us but also gives a major boost to the wider visitor economy here in Coventry.”

Entry-level jobs can be hard to find –but EZOO is creating opportunities

EZOO, the Coventry-based electric vehicle salary sacrifice provider, welcomed Molly-Rose Lindsay as its new Marketing Assistant Apprentice.

Fresh from completing business studies at Leamington College, Molly-Rose is already making her mark, working alongside Director of Marketing, Victoria Steele, to help tell the story of how businesses and employees can benefit from the shift to electric vehicles.

“I'm really excited to be here and learn from such a passionate team,” said Molly[1] Rose. “There's so much happening in the EV space, and I'm looking forward to being part of how EZOO tells that story.”

For EZOO's founders, Lash and Charnjit Saranna, apprenticeships represent more

than filling a position – they are about nurturing the skills and values that will shape the future of the industry. The company partnered with the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, of which EZOO is a proud member, to find the right fit.

“We believe in building for the long term,” explained the team. “Apprenticeships give us the chance to share our values and help develop the next generation of professionals.”

As the UK continues to accelerate towards a greener future, businesses such as EZOO are showing that growth is more than expanding services – it is about expanding opportunity.

By creating pathways for young people to develop real-world skills in a fastmoving sector, the company is not only strengthening its own team but contributing to a more sustainable workforce across the region.

Learn more about EZOO at ezoo.uk

Food for thought as fresh new magazine launches

Food & Drink Warwickshire is a new quarterly magazine launching in November. Published by Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce members Hamilton Rouse, it will celebrate the best the county has to offer, covering hotels, pubs, restaurants, bars, cafés, event suppliers, venues, markets, specialist retailers and artisan producers. Regular features will include news, reviews, profiles, interviews and events, showcasing Warwickshire’s dynamic culinary scene.

Each issue will have a seasonal theme and be distributed in high-footfall locations across the region, aimed both at locals and visitors.

With a print run of 10,000 copies per issue, backed by an extensive social media campaign, it has identified six key categories of readership – affluent local foodies, weekend escape visitors, culture and event seekers, the luxury leisure crowd, food-curious families, and overseas food and heritage tourists.

Little London Clinic – where beauty meets purpose and compassion

At Little London Clinic (formerly The White House Clinic) in the heart of Leamington Spa, beauty is more than skin deep.

The clinic stands for confidence, compassion, and care, where advanced treatments are matched with a genuine desire to give back. Using her extensive experience in hair restoration and aesthetics, the clinic’s Zara dedicates part of her work to supporting those affected by hair loss through alopecia and chemotherapy.

By carefully reconstructing brows and restoring definition, she helps clients regain not only their appearance but also their sense of self. This charitable work is carried out with empathy, sensitivity, and artistry, often providing treatments at little or no cost to those in need. Beyond her hands-on work, Zara also aims to raise awareness of the importance of restorative brow treatments in rebuilding confidence. Her commitment to giving back reflects the very heart of Little London Clinic, using expertise to empower and uplift others.

Zara’s compassion is underpinned by more than 16 years in the aesthetics industry, including time spent at leading London clinics specialising in scalp, beard, and brow hair restoration, before she established her clinic in Leamington Spa. Her expertise covers permanent makeup (PMU) for brows, lips, and lash lines, PMU removal, and laser treatments for both skin and hair. Each treatment is designed with precision and care to achieve results that look natural, refined, and long-lasting.

As the brand grows, the vision is to establish the clinic as a trusted hair loss hub.

At Little London Clinic, Zara’s aim is to make every visit feel calm, caring, and deeply personal, a place where expertise meets empathy, and beauty truly has a purpose.

Learn more at littlelondonclinic.co.uk

The magazine will cover all of Warwickshire, including Stratford-uponAvon, Warwick, Leamington Spa, Kenilworth, Alcester, Shipston-on-Stour, Henley-in-Arden and the villages in between.

And as great food and drink doesn’t always follow strict borders, it will also be dipping into the affluent suburbs and villages close to Solihull and Coventry, and into the edge of Worcestershire and the north Cotswolds. For more information contact studio@foodanddrinkwarwickshire.com

A tree-mendous way to help the environment

Wondering how to dispose of your real Christmas tree once the festive season is all wrapped up?

The Myton Hospices has announced the return of its annual Christmas tree collection in partnership with Pass The Smile, taking place over the weekend of Friday, January 9 until Sunday, January 11, 2026.

Once the festivities are over for another year, the team will be out collecting and recycling real Christmas trees across Coventry and Warwickshire.

Every tree collected is responsibly recycled, helping to reduce waste and protect the environment, whilst raising vital funds to support patients and families across the group’s hospices and in the community, as well as funding research into childhood cancer.

Each year, this campaign grows thanks to the generosity of supporters, volunteers and local businesses.

To make 2026 the most successful collection yet, The Myton Hospices is looking for sponsorship partners to help cover the essential costs of running the collection, including vehicle hire and volunteer support.

In return, sponsors will receive recognition across promotional materials, website and social media.

A spokesperson said: “By sponsoring the Christmas Tree Collection, your business will not only be helping to keep this popular and eco-friendly service running, but also making a meaningful difference to the people who rely on Myton and Pass The Smile’s care and support.

“There are also a range of other sponsorship opportunities available throughout the year, from headline event sponsorships and community initiatives to in-kind support for Myton’s campaigns.”

To find out more about how your organisation can get involved and make an impact, contact the team oncorporate@mytonhospice.org

To book your tree collection, visit www.mytonhospice.org/Tree

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid

Work starts on £140 million Stratford 46 business park

IM Properties (IMP) has started work on its long-awaited £140 million mixed-use Stratford 46 scheme, with local and national occupiers showing strong interest in the 65-acre employment park.

Stratford 46 will offer a flexible and demand-led mix of high-quality logistics, office and roadside premises, aiming to create around 1,500 new employment opportunities, providing space for local companies to expand, including those based at Stratford’s Canal Quarter.

Located on the west side of Stratfordupon-Avon, the start of infrastructure work marks a significant milestone for IMP, with construction beginning on a new roundabout which will be the access into the scheme. This will provide direct access to the scheme from the A46, ensuring a well-connected destination for forward-thinking businesses.

In the meantime, IMP is working with local stakeholders to ensure the scheme supports skills and training initiatives, helping residents access opportunities created both during construction and once the business park is operational.

Lewis Payne, Development Director at IM Properties, said: “It has been a long and complex journey to reach this point, with extensive discussions behind the scenes. However, interest from businesses has remained consistently strong, from those looking to expand in the area to new occupiers seeking prime space.

“This has helped to underline our strategy to push forward and satisfy the pent-up demand for business space along the M40 and M42 corridor across a range of sectors. With a clearer timeline now in place, we can progress formal discussions with potential occupiers eager to benefit from the location and access to a skilled workforce in the immediate vicinity.

“During construction we will be working hard to minimise disruption and keep the local community informed through newsletters and updates on our website.”

Stratford 46 is located just nine miles from Junction 15 of the M40, providing a direct route to the M25 to the south and M42 to the north.

The scheme will be offering sustainable workspaces ranging from 20,000 to 300,000 sq ft for a single letting. They will target EPC A and BREEAM Excellent ratings and be Net Zero Ready, with integrated solar PV panels in place to help occupiers transition to Net Zero in Operation. Construction of the buildings will start in 2026.

Payne added: “The scheme is being developed in line with our Sustainable Futures framework, and as part of our broader commitments, we’ve gained planning permission for a new nature reserve which will be a dedicated 17-acre plot adjacent to the scheme.

“The nature reserve will turn agricultural land into a new eco-system to encourage native flora and wildlife to thrive, as well as creating new green open space for future occupiers of the scheme.

“Later in the year we will also be launching a community fund to support local charities and organisations, managed by the Heart of England Community Foundation. We have worked in partnership with Heart of England on various funds across our larger schemes.”

Joint agents for the scheme are Colliers and Savills.

Further details on the scheme can be found at www.stratford46.com.

Making meetings memorable at The Albany Theatre

The Albany Theatre is one of Coventry’s most versatile event venues, offering a blend of creativity, flexibility, and comfort for conferences, meetings, and workshops.

Its four bright and spacious studios provide the perfect backdrop for professional and creative gatherings, from strategy sessions and training days to exhibitions and workshops.

Recent successes highlight just how adaptable the venue can be.

‘Elevate Your Line Management’ made full use of the Spotlight Studio, hosting an engaging, all-day training session for 50 people. Meanwhile, ‘Be Weird Live’, an event hosted by Holly Matthews, transformed the Courtyard Studio into a dynamic and creative space, welcoming 45 attendees for a full day of confidence workshops and interactive wellbeing activities.

These events perfectly showcase how the theatre’s spaces can be tailored to suit a range of professional and creative needs.

Venue Co-ordinator Jade O’Shea expressed her excitement about supporting such a diverse range of events.

Jade said: “We are really excited to be able to offer full and half-day delegate rates for conferences and meetings in our unique spaces.

“As a team, we love having the capacity to provide flexible spaces for a variety of uses,

Nexus Creative Ltd secures major contract with Solihull Wheel Repair

Nexus Creative Ltd, a proud Engage Member of the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce, has been appointed to handle all marketing and business development for Solihull Wheel Repair.

The new contract marks a significant win for the Worcester-based agency, which will now play a key role in expanding the reach and market presence of the specialist alloy wheel refurbishment company.

Solihull Wheel Repair, a division of the highly successful City Centre Car Care Group, offers a comprehensive range of services, including diamond cutting, powder coating, and fullscale alloy wheel refurbishment and supply.

The contract will see Nexus Creative implement an integrated strategy designed to

elevate the Solihull Wheel Repair brand and drive business expansion.

This will include a focus on targeted digital marketing campaigns, brand development, and strategic communications to reach a wider customer base across the Midlands.

Colin Foxall, Commercial Director of Nexus Creative Ltd, said: “We are thrilled to be partnering with Solihull Wheel Repair. Their dedication to quality and customer service is a perfect fit for our own values.

“This contract is a fantastic opportunity for us to leverage our expertise in both marketing and business development to help a brilliant company achieve its ambitious growth targets. As an Engage Member, we are delighted to be strengthening ties

from these conferences to rehearsals and exhibitions.”

The venue’s hire packages offer everything you need for a seamless and productive event – from room hire, set-up, and equipment, to unlimited refreshments throughout the day.

With catering included, delegates can enjoy delicious food as a much-needed pick-me-up alongside all the essentials such as Wi-Fi, notepads, pens, projector and screen.

The venue is also offering an exclusive incentive for early bookers, with the first five full-day delegate rate bookings receiving a 10 per cent discount on Eliza Jade Events’ ‘Full Session Menu’.

Please note, this offer applies solely to the Full Session Menu and excludes any additional extras.

Contact venuehire@albanytheatre.co.uk for more information.

with another successful business in the region. The partnership is a testament to the thriving business community within the Coventry and Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce network, highlighting how membership can lead to valuable collaborations and business growth.

Area Focus: Coventry - Mid Warks - North Warks - South Warks -

Accountancy team smashes huge fundraising goal

A West Midlands accountancy firm has smashed its £100,000 fundraising target for Birmingham Children's Hospital after scaling the peak of its latest challenge –climbing the height of Everest seven times in just 24 hours.

Prime Accountants Group, which has offices in Solihull, Birmingham and Coventry, has now raised an incredible £112,000 for Birmingham Children’s Hospital (BCH) through a series of annual challenges.

This includes a total of £30,000 – and counting – through its latest epic challenge, Prime vs Everest.

The Prime team scaled 61,950 metres of elevation on five treadmills, running nonstop, at Touchwood Shopping Centre in Solihull for 24 hours straight.

The money raised will go to support BCH’s partnership with the BAFTA-winning charity MediCinema to build a cinema inside its hospital.

BCH says almost 20 per cent of its inpatients have to stay for up to three weeks every year, some even longer, and research has proven having access to a cinema can transform a child’s physical, mental and emotional health.

The hospital needs to raise £1 million to make the project a reality and has already raised more than £400,000 towards that total.

Kerrie Given, Associate Director at Prime Accountants Group, said: “To see how together everyone was, how genuine the smiles were and the dancing and laughter when we realised we'd hit £30,000 was just incredible.

“The overwhelming feeling was pride –pride in what we do, pride in what we are and pride in the Midlands.

“Many of our team brought their children along, who were there shaking their buckets and were so confident when they were talking to members of the public.

“It's great to show them that hard work and perseverance pays off – and in this case, our hard work literally paid off!

“This money is going to help families at BCH to make their stays that little bit easier, and give them special moments together. Those good memories can make everything feel better.”

Morgan Davies, Managing Director of Prime Accountants Group, said: “I am incredibly proud of everyone who took part. It’s our highest ever amount raised at an individual fundraiser – only eclipsed by our golden post box challenge, which took place over three months.

“There are international companies who would be proud of raising the amount we did in this challenge. It’s a magnificent achievement by everyone involved.”

“The team at

Accountants have set themselves a mountain of a challenge but having already raised over £100,000 for our charity; we know they can do anything they put their minds to!

“We’re incredibly grateful to Prime Accountants for choosing to support our MediCinema Appeal with this challenge, which will see a new state-of-the-art cinema built inside our hospital for our sick kids.

“Their support will help us ensure our patients and families can enjoy positive experiences together away from the wards, for years to come, at no cost to them or the NHS.”

There’s still time to donate at https://primeaccountants.co.uk/prime-accountants/news-centre/charity-and-community/prime-vs-everest

Wealth firm positioned for growth as it moves to new home in rural setting

A Warwickshire-based wealth management firm has positioned itself for continued growth following its relocation to a former 19th-century country home transformed into premium office space.

Oliver Wealth Ltd has made the move to Stockton House in South Warwickshire, owned by Wigley Investment Holdings, after outgrowing its previous offices near the high street in Southam and seeking new headquarters that matched its ambitions.

The firm, founded by Nick Oliver and launched in 2022, provides independent financial advice to clients across a range of services including pensions, investments, protection and estate planning.

It has expanded from a team of one to eight in three years and will move into a new 600 sq ft office, with further space available at Stockton House to support the firm’s continued growth.

Nick said: “We needed a space and office that reflected who we are and the quality of service we offer.

“Stockton House is the perfect fit for our target audience and the clients we work with, with scope to support our continued growth and additional space as we build more advisors into the business.

“The business is continuing on an upward trajectory, with changing rules around pensions and inheritance tax meaning that

more people need professional wealth management advice than ever before. We’re excited about our future at Stockton House.”

The move comes as Wigley Investment Holdings continues to develop a thriving business community and help smaller companies grow at Stockton House.

Oliver Wealth Ltd joins Newton LDP and Richard George Tailoring as Stockton House’s latest tenants, and there are hopes for more to join them soon as two new spaces are currently being offered to prospective tenants.

Newton LDP moved to Stockton House more than four years ago and has grown six-fold during that time. It is now set to move into a new 1,636 sq ft space at Stockton House, with capacity for up to 25 staff to safeguard its future expansion plans.

Richard Foxon, Managing Director of Newton LDP, said: “Stockton House gave

us a first-class office accommodation and supporting infrastructure from day one which has facilitated the growth of the business.

“We have a fantastic relationship with the team here. Their flexibility has been key to helping the business to scale-up.

“We are ambitious in our growth plans and remain committed to continuing our sustainable growth at Stockton House.”

Robert Wigley, Chairman of Wigley Investment Holdings, said: “We’re really pleased that Oliver Wealth is making Stockton House its home and is helping us create an ecosystem of like-minded businesses here, and we’re looking forward to being part of its growth journey.

“Stockton House offers something a little bit different to your usual office space. Its discreet, rural setting and elegant architecture makes it very inviting for both businesses and their clients, yet it is still easily accessible being close to Coventry, Rugby, Leamington and Banbury.

“We see Stockton House as an incubator for local businesses, and our flexible terms allows firms to easily take on more space as they grow, which is evidenced by the growth enjoyed by businesses such as Newton LDP.”

For information, contact info@stockton-house.co.uk or visit www.stockton-house.co.uk/

Reward Electrical Distributors has announced its agreement to be the West Midlands and Warwickshire’s trusted stockist of Lutron RA2 and Lutron Vive smart lighting systems – two of the most advanced solutions on the market for intelligent lighting control.

Whether you are managing an office, retail space, hospitality venue or industrial unit, smart lighting offers a powerful way to enhance your environment, reduce energy costs and improve employee wellbeing. Why smart lighting?

• Smart lighting can adapt to occupancy and daylight levels, helping businesses cut energy bills without compromising on comfort.

• Studies show that well-lit spaces boost morale and productivity. Smart lighting systems can allow you to tailor lighting levels to suit different tasks and times of day.

• These products are ideal for retrofits and expansions, offering wireless control that integrates seamlessly with existing infrastructure.

• Smart control allows you to manage lighting from your device or Building Management System, even remotely.

• Smart lighting is a straightforward step in reducing carbon footprint. As an independently owned local distributor, Reward Electrical can offer personalised support, technical expertise and fast delivery across Coventry and Warwickshire allowing the company to support electrical contractors, facilities managers and business owners in designing lighting solutions that work for your space and budget.

Whether you are upgrading a single room or planning a full building refurb, the team can help you make the switch to smarter lighting.

To find out more, contact sales@rewardelec.co.uk or see www.rewardelectrical.co.uk

NWSLC continues to drive the automotive industry’s future with EV skills training

North Warwickshire and South Leicestershire College (NWSLC) is continuing to play a pivotal role in supporting the future of the UK’s automotive industry by delivering bespoke, hands-on training that enables the workforce to transition to electric vehicle (EV) technology.

Following a challenging period for JLR in the wake of a recent cyber-attack, NWSLC has reinforced its commitment to supporting the manufacturer as it gets back on track.

The college is continuing to deliver specialist training designed to upskill JLR employees in the latest EV technologies, helping to strengthen the resilience and capability of its workforce.

To date, more than 1,000 JLR employees have completed the tailored training programme, developed collaboratively between JLR and NWSLC. Delivered at the college’s MIRA Technology Institute in Nuneaton, the programme underpins JLR’s Reimagine Strategy – its long-term plan to achieve carbon net zero across its operations by 2039.

The training combines technical insight with hands-on experience, enabling technicians to work confidently with advanced EV systems. Participants develop their skills in realistic settings and depending on their role, can

progress to higher-level training delivered in partnership with Coventry University.

Paul Joyce, Deputy Principal of NWSLC, said: “Our partnership with JLR demonstrates the strength of collaboration between education and industry. By responding quickly and flexibly to the sector’s needs, we’re not only helping businesses recover and grow but also empowering their employees with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.”

Dr Eric Coolen, Technical Learning Manager at JLR, added: “As we electrify our fleet, the need for internal reskilling became clear. This programme is tailored to our exact needs and gives staff the chance to test real-world solutions.”

This ongoing collaboration reflects NWSLC’s wider commitment to supporting employers across the region through innovation, skills development and strategic partnerships. By working closely with businesses, the college continues to drive forward the transformation of key industries and ensure the local workforce is equipped for the future.

For further information please contact the Business Engagement team be@nwslc.ac.uk

“Our partnership with JLR demonstrates the strength of collaboration between education and industry. By responding quickly and flexibly to the sector’s needs, we’re not only helping businesses recover and grow but also empowering their employees with the skills to thrive in a rapidly changing landscape.”

New £750,000 workshop to drive up skills at college

WCG (Warwickshire College Group) has officially opened its new Motor Vehicle Workshop at Rugby College - a facility designed to mirror a real-world automotive workplace and prepare students with the skills needed by today’s and tomorrow’s industries.

The Motor Vehicle Workshop development received £750,000 from the UK Government through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund. This funding was awarded through Rugby Borough Council as part of its commitment to supporting local skills, innovation, and economic growth.

The launch event, brought together local employers, council representatives, and education leaders to experience first-hand the new workshop facilities. Guests explored the Vehicle Zone, viewed demonstrations from WCG’s Motor Vehicle team, and learned about WCG’s wider work to support businesses and shape future skills.

Sara-Jane Watkins, CEO and Principal of WCG, opened the event and underlined the college’s role in providing high-quality skills training that aligns with regional needs.

Sara-Jane said: “Further education “Further education plays a vital role in building the skills that our businesses and economy need to thrive. This new workshop will future-proof our provision in automotive and engineering and ensure our learners experience a training environment that truly reflects industry practice. We are committed to working with employers of all sizes to make sure our curriculum develops the future workforce they need.”

Gary Elson, Head of School for Motor Vehicle and Engineering at WCG, added: “This investment gives us the foundation to train the next generation of automotive engineers, while also supporting upskilling for the current workforce. We want employers to see this as a place where their voice shapes curriculum – from co-designing courses to providing realworld briefs that prepare students for the realities of the workplace.”

Alongside the facility launch, the event also highlighted WCG’s Innovate UK Further Education Innovation Fund (FEIF) project, which focuses on supporting small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs) across the region. By engaging with

Councillor Ish Mistry, Deputy Leader of Rugby Borough Council, said: “We are proud to support Warwickshire College Group in bringing this fantastic new workshop to Rugby. By investing in skills

and training, we are investing in the future of our local economy and giving young people and businesses the tools they need to succeed in a rapidly changing world. I am thrilled that this significant investment continues the legacy of the college site in training young people in the use of the latest technologies.” Read more at wcg.ac.uk/motorvehicle

New partnership to shape the future of Creative Technologies

The University of Warwick and the Centre for Entertainment Arts (CEA) have officially joined forces in a bold new CreaTech strategic partnership, uniting one of the UK’s most innovative universities with a global leader in digital entertainment education.

The initiative marks CEA’s first UK university collaboration and reinforces Warwick’s role as a pioneer in immersive, industry-focused learning.

Over a two year pilot, the partners will deliver short, high-impact training courses at Fusion, a dedicated space on the Warwick campus designed for creativity, technology, and experimentation.

From 3D animation to AI, and game development to visual effects, these highdemand courses offer fast-track upskilling led by experienced industry practitioners.

Designed for adult learners, aspiring creatives, and professionals across the UK’s digital industries, the initiative responds directly to national skills shortages and to a growing demand for specialist creative tech talent.

“Our new partnership with the CEA is a model of applied education that connects directly to creative industry needs,” said Mick McLaughlin, Business Development Manager at Fusion.

“We are building a powerful innovation ecosystem for our diverse communities where ideas turn into opportunities for students, start-ups and businesses alike.”

“This is more than a partnership: it’s an innovation alliance,” added David Plumb, Chief Innovation Officer at the University of Warwick.

“We’re blending creativity, technology, and industry expertise to shape a future where immersive entertainment inspires new possibilities for learning, collaboration, and regional economic growth.”

The partnership will also launch a series of future-facing industry events, workshops, and thought-leadership forums to help shape the UK’s evolving CreaTech landscape.

Diwakar Gandhi, Co-Founder and Co-CEO of CEA, said, “We’re thrilled to be combining CEA’s expertise with the University of Warwick to empower participants with industry-aligned, project-based learning and portfolio-ready experience. Together, we are enabling the next generation of creative technologists, ready to drive the future of immersive and entertainment industries.”

CEA is an officially recognised Unreal Authorised Training Centre, part of a select global network supported by Epic Games to deliver expert-led training in Unreal Engine, one of the world’s most advanced 3D creation platforms used across games, film, and virtual production.

Backing from studios such as Navigator Games reflects the real-world relevance of the collaboration.

CEO Will Moore said: “As a studio powered by Unreal Engine and always in search of world-class developers, designers, and 3D artists, we see this partnership as a game-changer, creating a talent pipeline rooted in real-world skills and creative excellence.

“This initiative strengthens both the UK education system and the future of global entertainment. It’s exactly the kind of programme that helps young creators go from the classroom to the studio floor."

Ukrainian war heroes develop leadership skills at WBS

The programme is designed to equip the veterans to help lead their nation's post-war recovery and democratic development.

Maria's journey is one of immense resilience. After the fall of Mariupol in 2022, she was held captive by Russian forces and first taken to the notorious Olenivka camp in occupied Donetsk, and then taken to other Russian prisons.

During her time in captivity, she was deprived of food, water and sleep,

tortured with electric shocks, and beaten. Maria emerged from this ordeal with a deep commitment to help fellow service members rebuild their lives.

This commitment led her to create a non-profit organisation focused on veteran rehabilitation. Maria has already started taking veterans on cultural and sports tours abroad through her organisation, aiming to "inspire them and reboot them".

Her work is based on a profound personal brief.

"In my experience people who had more positive experiences before war and captivity were better able to handle stress," she said. "I believe that this can restore them further."

At WBS, Maria was keen to develop the leadership skills needed to expand these rehabilitation programmes for wounded veterans and their families.

The Veterans Leadership Programme, a five-day intensive course, is a direct investment in Ukraine's future, preparing a new generation of leaders for public service.

The curriculum is a collaboration between WBS, the Ukrainian civil society organisation CHESNO, and former Warwick Visiting Fellow Vita Dumanska.

Dr Dumanska is CHESNO's Chief Executive said: "Ukraine's veterans are not only defenders of our freedom, they are the future architects of our democracy.

"They carry unmatched public trust, and with the right tools and international partnerships, they can turn their frontline resilience into leadership that rebuilds institutions and anchors Ukraine firmly in the democratic world."

The programme's curriculum blends academic rigour with real-world insight, featuring strategic leadership and veteran reintegration sessions with leading businesses.

Bo Kelestyn, Associate Professor of Information Systems Management at WBS and Co-Director of the programme, expressed the School's commitment to this learning.

"We are honoured to welcome these inspiring individuals to Warwick," she said. "Their commitment to public service and democratic values resonates deeply with our mission to foster inclusive and innovative leadership. Through design thinking and collaborative learning, we hope to equip participants with the tools to drive meaningful change in their communities and beyond."

The veterans are expected to utilise the skills they gained on the programme to advocate for inclusive policies, build professional networks, and contribute to a growing community of veteran leaders dedicated to public service in Ukraine.

Empowering the workforce of tomorrow

Coventry College is offering a comprehensive adult welding course, designed to equip learners with the skills and expertise required in the ever-evolving manufacturing and automotive industries.

With flexible pathways to achieve a Level 1, 2, or 3 Award in Welding, this course is perfect for adults looking to upskill, retrain, or enter the field for the first time.

For employers, it provides an invaluable opportunity to access a pipeline of skilled, job-ready talent prepared to meet the demands of the modern workplace.

Coventry College recognises the vital role welding plays in the manufacturing and automotive sectors, both of which are critical to the local and national economy.

The Adult Welding Course focuses on teaching essential welding techniques, using state-of-the-art equipment. By developing a solid foundation of practical skills, learners complete the course ready to contribute effectively to the workforce.

“I’m delighted that we’re able to offer a suite of welding courses at Coventry College,” said Andrew Schneider, Director for Engineering.

“We’ve listened to employers in the region about the shortage of skilled welders, so this is an important step in us meeting our mission to meet the local and regional skills need.”

To ensure the curriculum meets the real-world needs of employers, Coventry College hosts Skills of the Future panels – collaborative forums where local employers share their insights about the skills gaps they are experiencing in their industries.

These panels enable the college to continually evaluate and update their courses to align with industry expectations, ensuring students are workplace-ready upon completion.

Feedback from these panels led to Coventry College creating a comprehensive course, specialising in solar photovoltaic system installations.

Designed specifically for existing roofers, this course provides practical skills and theoretical knowledge to confidently and safely work in the growing renewable energy sector.

With employers now looking to build a greener future, the college is dedicated to training its learners on the most up-to-date skills and techniques.

Coventry College says it is deeply committed to supporting local businesses by producing highly-skilled learners who are ready to hit the ground running, and that partnering with them can benefit businesses by providing access to skilled talent, a tailored curriculum designed to address specific skills gaps, upskilling opportunities for current staff and support for workforce development.

For more information about the college’s adult welding course, solar PV course or to join its Skills of the Future panels, contact Coventry College at employers@coventrycollege.ac.uk or visit www.coventrycollege.ac.uk/employers/

Health and Wellbeing

Three Quick Wins for Better Workplace Mental Health

Poor mental health costs UK employers an estimated £3,000 per employee each year, yet most leaders underestimate how much influence they have in turning this around.

The truth is, while comprehensive training and culture change take time, there are some immediate steps any organisation can take today that will start to make a real difference.

1. Start Talking - and Keep Listening

Creating a culture where people can talk openly about mental health begins with leadership. Make conversations about wellbeing part of everyday working life, not just crisis moments or annual awareness days. A quick check-in during a meeting or a genuine “how are you really?” can signal that it’s safe to talk.

Encourage managers to listen actively without judgement. This approach builds trust and can surface issues long before they turn into sickness absence or staff turnover.

2. Review How Work Is Done, Not Just What Gets Done

Workplace stress often stems not from long hours alone, but from the way work is organised. Pay attention to workload balance, job clarity, and expectations around availability. Simple actions - such as reviewing priorities, removing unnecessary deadlines, or encouraging realistic working hourshelp protect mental health across teams. When employees feel they’re trusted and supported to do their best work, engagement and performance increase naturally.

3. Lead by

Example and Set the Tone

Employees take their cues from leadership behaviour. If managers never disconnect, employees won’t either. Model healthy habits - take breaks, use annual leave, and talk openly about how you look after your wellbeing. Visibility matters: when senior figures show that it’s acceptable to prioritise mental health, it gives permission for everyone else to do the same.

The

Power of Training – and Why It’s

Worth Doing Properly

While these practical steps can spark immediate meaningful change, longterm improvement requires structure, knowledge, and confidence. That’s where training plays a vital role. Investing in

mental health skills isn’t an overnight job - it takes time to embed understanding, consistency, and confidence across leaders and teams. However, the return on that investment is clear: healthier people, stronger teams, and measurable business gains.

At Mental Health in Business (MHIB), we help organisations at every stage - from first conversations to comprehensive wellbeing programmes and accredited training for leaders, managers, and Mental Health First Aiders.

Positive change starts with small actions, but it’s sustained by commitment, learning, and leadership. If you begin today, those first three steps could be the turning point for a healthier, more productive workplace.

Steve Harcourt

President of Coventry & Warwickshire Chamber of Commerce

This is my final column as president and I complete my term with so many fond memories of the past two years.

It has been an absolute privilege to meet so many fantastic people amongst our membership and stakeholders in the region – from businesspeople to politicians and from charities to community groups.

I’ve done everything from serving burgers in McDonald’s (I notice another president stole that idea a few months later!) through to seeing plans for a new multi-million-pound development in the region.

It has struck me with every business that I have visited throughout the patch how all of their teams are driving towards one goal, which – to me –shows a great deal of leadership and investment in the people who support those businesses.

It gives me great confidence that the future success of the region is in safe hands.

During my time as president, the Chamber has gone through its own internal governance review to create a new board structure, change the way we select our president and also the introduction of a new business assembly, which will be launched later this year.

We have worked incredibly hard with all stakeholders to achieve what we set out to do within two years and it should make us more agile and responsive for our members. I must thank everyone on the board for their work on this and, again, for all of their support for me during my time in the role.

Another really positive element of being president of the Chamber locally is being able to connect with other Chambers of Commerce through the British Chambers of Commerce network.

This means we can influence the business agenda for the benefit of our members and our region and has meant visits to Westminster to ensure the message is taken to the heart of government.

I must also pay tribute to the team at the Chamber, who have all welcomed me with open arms. It is thanks to their help and support that has allowed me to achieve all that I hoped and planned prior to taking the role.

We will be announcing the new president very shortly and I wish them every success, knowing they can count on the same level of support I have received over the past two years.

As a huge Coventry City fan, it has been great to witness the resurgence of the team on the pitch in the past few years and if I am looking for one highlight as president it has to be being invited to represent the Chamber at the unveiling of the John Sillett and George Curtis statue at the Coventry Building Society Arena!

It was great to meet the players and staff behind that memorable FA Cup victory in 1987 and it was a fantastic reminder of how working together as one can bring incredible success.

I look forward to the continued success of the Chamber of Commerce as the leading voice of the business community in our region.

Steve

New role for Fay!

Fay Winterburn is ‘thrilled and proud’ to have taken on the role of Head of Employability and Skills at Warwickshire County Council.

She now leads a vibrant and expanding service of more than 100 staff, delivering a wide range of programmes which support employers, education providers, and jobseekers across the county.

Fay is responsible for ensuring a strong and ambitious careers offer for young people that reflects local economic needs, while also supporting businesses to develop and retain the skills they need to grow sustainably.

A key priority is ensuring all Warwickshire residents, regardless of the barriers they face, have access to clear, progressive pathways into employment.

Creating inclusive and accessible services and programmes is something Fay is no stranger to, and a key driver in why she wanted to step into such a role and, while it holds significant responsibility, the opportunity to positively impact the lives of so many Warwickshire residents was an opportunity Fay couldn’t wait to explore further.

Fay brings a wealth of experience to the role, having worked at Warwickshire County Council for eight years. She began as a Business Skills Advisor, working directly with local businesses to identify

skills gaps and connect them with the right support.

In 2020, she became Lead Commissioner, designing over 30 solutionfocused programmes and launching a range of services that helped raise aspirations and guide residents into meaningful employment.

From starting as part of a small team, in the last two years Fay has since attracted over £12 million in external investment, supporting significant growth in the employability and skills space, and opportunities to build on the existing thriving services her team delivers.

Fay’s innovative and inclusive approach has earned her multiple award nominations, including a High Sheriff’s Award for outstanding service to the community.

“I’m proud of what we’ve achieved over the years,” said Fay. “You don’t always realise the scale of it until you look back. I’m just someone who loves to problemsolve, with a head full of ideas and a passion for getting things done. But none of it would have been possible without the trust and support of the council and our leaders, who have believed in my vision for Warwickshire and, of course, my teams for bringing it all to life.”

WCC Portfolio Holder for Economy, Cllr Rob Howard, said: "Warwickshire County Council is fully committed to doing all we can to support employability and skills and to promote opportunities for all people.

“Warwickshire Skills Hub delivers a range of excellent programmes and is nationally renowned for their work with employers, education-providers and jobseekers and, over the last eight years, Fay has played a huge role in the notable achievements of the Skills Hub. She is the ideal person to lead her team into the future and ensure that those programmes continue and also evolve to provide the best possible support for our communities."

New head of family for leading law firm

Alsters Kelley Solicitors Ltd, one of Coventry, Warwickshire and Oxfordshire’s leading law firms has appointed Jackie Lee as Head of its Family Private department.

Jackie, joined the firm in August this year, having previously worked for a reputable firm based in Birmingham and Solihull.

Jackie has more than 20 years of experience in advising both married and unmarried couples, she has a wealth of knowledge in Family Law and is an Accredited Family Law Solicitor, a recognition that her Family Law advice meets the standard of quality set by The Law Society.

She is passionate in helping her clients move forward to the next chapter in their lives and she believes the best way to achieve this is to take a pragmatic and constructive approach.

Jackie is also a Family Mediator where she strives to help couples find a solution which works for them both.

Julie McGarrigle, Business Development Director at Alsters Kelley

Solicitors Ltd, said: “We are absolutely thrilled to have appointed someone of Jackie’s calibre to lead one of our most important departments. She brings a vast amount of experience with her to the role, and we have every confidence that she will develop and grow the department as well as being a great asset to the whole firm.”

Jackie said: “I am thrilled to be part of an excellent team and I am excited by the opportunities ahead for us all. I am looking forward to the challenge. This is a great opportunity as there is so much potential for me to develop and expand the team and to make a real difference.”

Key new forensic appointment for West Midlands accountants

West Midlands firm Prime Accountants Group has boosted its forensic accountancy offering with the appointment of an experienced new team member.

The arrival of Shannon Walden as forensic senior manager means Prime – based in Birmingham, Solihull and Coventry – is well-placed to service growing demand from clients for its forensic accounting services.

Shannon previously spent 10 years at KPMG, where she began her career with

an internship within which she found a passion for forensic accounting. After graduating from University of Warwick, she completed KPMG's graduate scheme before becoming fully qualified.

Shannon’s experience spans forensic accounting for investigations, disputes, economics and forensic in the audit –working with audit teams to spot potential threats of fraud.

At Prime, she is focusing on dispute work and collaborating with director and head of forensic accounting, Adrian Pym.

Shannon said: “The work at Prime is so varied because, even if the nature of a case is the same as another – for example, a matrimonial dispute – every case has its own set of circumstances.

“I'm learning so much from working with Adrian. The way the directors work at Prime is so collaborative, it's a cliche but Adrian's door is always open, and it means we’re able to discuss our client work in an ongoing way.

“I enjoy the attention to detail and problem solving which forensic accounting requires – it’s all about identifying what has happened and proposing a solution.”

Shannon said she was enjoying being part of a supportive team at Prime. She said: “The company culture is great –everyone has been so welcoming across all the departments and offices.

“We have direct access to the directors, and the team’s ideas and opinions are all heard and taken into consideration.”

Adrian Pym, Prime director and head of forensic accounting, said: “Shannon has brought new perspectives, knowledge and experience to our forensic accounting offering, and we’re pleased to have her as part of the Prime team.

“Client demand for this service area continues to increase, and we now have even more capacity to take on those cases and deliver value for our clients.”

Firm’s commitment recognised with top defence award for Armed Forces support

An army veteran who moved to a Warwickshire-based land and property investment firm after 30 years of military experience has praised the business after it received a coveted award recognising its commitment to the Armed Forces.

Wigley Investment Holdings has been awarded the Defence Employer Recognition Scheme’s (ERS) Gold Award by the Ministry of Defence for its continued support of the Armed Forces through its employment practices and charitable work.

The Gold Award has very strict criteria, with recipients having to show clear commitment towards the recruitment of veterans, supporting their families, and more, all while having earned Bronze and Silver awards previously.

Wigley’s Partnerships Director Danny Leitch, a former Major in the Parachute Regiment, was officially presented the accolade at an official ceremony.

Danny, who served in Afghanistan, Iraq and Northern Ireland, said he was proud to be part of a company that placed such high stock in supporting the British Armed Forces.

He said: “One thing that all veterans will tell you is that there’s a true sense of belonging in the military – and that’s what many are looking for when they head back to life as a civilian.

“I had met Wigley previously through their work with the Parachute Regiment and Airborne Forces Charity, and I felt they aligned with those values when a chance came up to work for them.

“And, since joining, it is clear they practice what they preach. Wigley’s support of military charities and organisations is the more overt way of championing the armed forces – they regularly fundraise and support Midlands reserve and cadet forces – but it’s the things behind the scenes that I am so proud of.

“It’s the fact that they will actively consider a soldier’s CV if a job comes up, and also help families related to those who are serving if they have gaps in employment due to the upheaval that can bring.

“Usually, it’s the big companies that win the Gold Award, so for a smaller company like Wigley to earn it is particularly special. I’m proud to be working for such a company, and I’m looking forward to continuing to help Wigley champion the Armed Forces in the years to come.”

James Ellerington, Senior Executive Director at Wigley Investment Holdings, said: “To have been awarded the Defence ERS Gold Award is a real honour, and highlights the extensive work we do to support the Armed Forces.

“There was no better person to collect the award than Danny. He understands more than most the reasons why it is so important to give our veterans and their families the support they need.

“It was a truly special night for Wigley Investment Holdings, and we know Danny will play a key role in ensuring we live up to the values of the Gold Award.”

Newton LDP expands rural expertise with new expert appointment

Land, development and property agency Newton LDP has strengthened its team with the appointment of Louise Duffin as Associate Director, joining to support the firm’s growing rural property division. Bringing more than two decades of experience from her previous role as a partner at Fisher German, Louise combines vast sector knowledge with a personal connection to rural life, coming from a farming background. Her career began through a graduate route, where she gained extensive hands-on experience across the rural property sector. At Newton LDP, Louise will contribute to the firm’s expanding rural property consultancy work, providing expertise to support landowners, farmers, and other clients across the UK. Her appointment adds further depth to the team as the company builds on its strong financial performance and ambitious growth strategy. Louise has developed expertise in strategic estate management, advising landowners how to optimise the value and returns from their property assets whilst ensuring they meet the ever-increasing compliance requirements.

Louise said: “Newton LDP is a growing team, and I’m excited to be part of its journey as the business continues to expand. One of the things that really attracted me to Newton is that your voice counts here. Being a dynamic growing business, there is opportunity to be involved in a wide variety of work, whilst focusing on building strong client relationships and delivering best possible outcomes which is both motivating and rewarding.”

Richard Foxon, Managing Director at Newton LDP, commented: “We are delighted to welcome Louise to the team. Her extensive experience and deep understanding of rural property strengthen our capability and support our continued growth. By bringing in talented individuals at all levels, we are creating a business that is both sustainable and ready to meet the evolving needs of our clients.” For further information about Newton LDP, see https://newtonldp.com/

Business Engage Members

Hall Reynolds LLP

Solicitors 01789 772955

email@hallreynolds.co.uk www.hallreynolds.co.uk

Business Global Members

NMS UK

Automotive Manufacturing

info@nmsuk.co.uk https://www.nmsuk.co.uk/

IM Properties Developments

Property Agents, Commercial & Industrial 0121 730 8050

enquiries@improperties.co.uk

https://improperties.co.uk/

Business Connect Members

Aspire HR and Training Consultants Ltd

Human Resource Consultants 07766 835025

info@aspirehrandtraining.co.uk www.aspirehrandtraining.co.uk

Bearhat Marketing

Marketing Services 07542 151308

hello@bearhatmarketing.com bearhatmarketing.com

BPA Global Enterprises Ltd

Importer & Exporters

07907 642860

bpaglobalenterprise@gmail.com www.bpaglobalenterprisesltd.co.uk

ClimbCare Ltd

Manufacture of Health & Wellness Products 07789 516417

stevenmarkharper@gmail.com www.climbcare.co.uk

Custom Heat Ltd

Heating & Plumbing Engineers 01788 568752

garylorimer@customheat.co.uk www.customheat.co.uk

Cybervision-UK Ltd

Security Services 07592 772541

warren.smith@cybervision-uk.com https://cybervision-uk.com

Eagles Tribe Ltd

Air Conditioning Services 07466 518415

info@optimpro.co.uk optimpro.co.uk

Edisons Electrical

Electrical & Electronic Engineering 0121 751 6332

contact@edisons.co.uk www.edisons.co.uk

Business Talent Members

Liam Feeney

Education For Dental

Educational Services

07757 078881

admin@educationfordental.com

https://educationfordental.com/

Ephphatha Financial Services Limited

Financial Services 07566 219065

info@ephphathamortgages.co.uk www.ephphathamortgages.co.uk

Evans Estates Coventry Ltd

Estate Agents 02476 333363 www.evans-estates.co.uk/

Feelwell

Health & Wellbeing

07838 197735

Leanne@feelwelltoday.co.uk

https://www.feelwelltoday.co.uk/

Inicio HR Ltd

Human Resource Consultants

02475 260007

Info@iniciohr.co.uk www.iniciohr.co.uk

Little London Clinic

Beauty Treatments 01926 919319

hello@littlelondonclinic.co.uk https://littlelondonclinic.co.uk/

Llumor Marketing Systems

Marketing Services 01564 314 118

hello@llumor.co.uk

https://www.llumor.co.uk/meeting

Malsher Construction Ltd

Construction & Development 02475 122543

info@malsherengltd.co.uk malsher.co.uk

Menopause Knowledge CIC

Charities & Benevolent Organisations 07306 397981

aline@menopauseknowledge.org https://menopauseknowledge.org/

MTD Training

Educational & Training Establishments 024 7699 2486

info@mtdtraining.co.uk https://www.mtdtraining.com/

Neonique Ltd

Information Technology 07858 073950 hello@neonique.net https://www.neonique.net

Photini - Luminous Health and Beauty

Beauty Treatments 07850 671677

lana_s.nasibova@hotmail.co.uk https://www.facebook.com/profile. php?id=61578928832144

Provision Support Service CIC

Accommodation Agencies 07482 208616

info@provisionsupportservice.co.uk https://www.provisionsupportservice.co.uk/

Shafees Property Group Ltd

Property 07957 376656

Lettings@shafeespropertygroup.co.uk

The Physiology People

Health & Wellbeing 07555 022771 support@thephysiologypeople.com https://www.thephysiologypeople.com/

XL Motors Ltd

Motor Vehicle Body Repairs & Spraying 02476 362181 support@xlarc.co.uk http://www.xlarc.co.uk

Coventry City Council

Coventry City Council’s Workplace Wellbeing Award team is offering Chamber Members a fully funded, NCFE-accredited Workplace Wellbeing Award to help businesses improve health and wellbeing at work. Expiry Date: 31/03/2026

BUSINESS CONNECT Members

Inspire

Chamber Member Exclusive: Sustainable Merchandise Playbook + Free Planning Session Expiry Date: 31/12/2025

Charlecote Pheasant Hotel Festive Afternoon Tea Offer: Enjoy a fabulous festive afternoon tea at Clarion Charlecote Pheasant for a special rate of just £26.95 per person.

Mallory Court

Country House Hotel & Spa

Special Christmas Offers at Mallory Court Hotel & Spa

Expiry Date: 31/12/2025

Expiry Date: 31/12/2025

Troocost

Free energy health check for all Chamber of Commerce Members

Expiry Date: 19/12/2025

Telegraph Hotel Coventry - Winter Sale Chamber Members can book overnight accommodation in a Big Double or Twin Room, with Breakfast, and receive a £40.00 voucher to spend on any food and drink during your stay.

Expiry Date: 31/12/2025

Nailcote Hall

20% off Themed Christmas Party Nights at Nailcote Hall Expiry Date: 30/11/2025

Wylde Connections Limited

ESG Diagnostic & GHG Emissions Bundle Offer Expiry Date: 31/12/2025

Edisons Electrical

15% off Electrical Installation Condition Reports (EICRs) for Chamber Members Expiry Date: 30/11/2025

Wren Sterling Chamber Member corporate financial health check

Expiry Date: 31/12/2025

MEMBERS EVENTS

Christmas Charity Boogie Bingo

Extravaganza, supported by Julie White, D-Drill & Sawing

St Patrick's Irish Club, Riverside, Adelaide Rd, Leamington Spa, CV32 5AH

Date: 12 November 2025

Time: 7.00pm - 10:30pm

SOS Silence of SuicideMental Health Group Session

The Kenilworth Community Centre, Abbey End, Kenilworth, CV8 1QJ

Date: 17 November 2025

Time: 6:30pm to 8:30pm

Mallory Court Hotel & Spa: Festive Wreathmaking Workshop

Mallory Court Hotel & Spa, Harbury Lane, Leamington Spa, CV33 9QB

Date: 21 November 2025

Time:

Time: 10.00am – 1.00pm

Coventry University - Leadership, Innovation and AI in the Public Sector (and beyond)

The Simulation Centre, Cheetah Road, Coventry, CV1 2TL

Date: 27 November 2025

Time: 10.00am – 12.00pm

Christmas 2025 at Woodland GrangePrivate Party Nights

Woodland Grange, Old Milverton Lane, Leamington Spa, CV21 6RN

Date: 05 December 2025

Time: 7.00pm - midnight

The Traitors Dining Experience

Windmill Village Hotel, Birmingham Road, Coventry, CV5 9AL

Date: 06 December 2025

Time: 5:30pm – 10.00pm

Coventry, Warwickshire & Worcestershire Mind - Mental Elf 5k festive fun run

War Memorial Park, Kenilworth, Coventry, CV3 6GF

Date: 07 December 2025

Time: 11.00am – 2.00pm

Warwickshire Baroque presents Bach's Brandenburg Concertos 3 and 4

Stoneleigh Abbey, Kenilworth, Warwickshire, CV8 2LF

Date: 07 December 2025

Time: 3.00pm – 5.00pm

GrowthCLUB - Kevin Riley

ActionCOACH Warwick

Ashorne Hill, Leamington Spa, Warwickshire, CV33 9QW

Date: 10 December 2025

Time: 8:30am - 4:30pm

New Year's Eve Celebration

Clarion Hotel Charlecote Pheasant, Charlecote Road, Charlecote, Stratford-upon-Avon, Warwickshire, CV35 9EW

Date: 31 December 2025

Time: 6.00pm – 1.00am

Curtains / Blinds / Installation Services / Project Management

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