Essex Business Podcast
The Essex Business Podcast is for business leaders that are looking for practical advice, tips and inspiration from peers across the county and beyond.
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#47 Sustainable Essex: Ethical businesses leading the way
07/29/2024
#47 Sustainable Essex: Ethical businesses leading the way
The focus on sustainability, along with ethical and environmental working practices, has become increasingly important for businesses of all sizes in recent years. In this episode, we explore sustainable development and ethical business practices in Essex with four inspiring guests. We highlight their significant contributions to sustainability and how they have effectively incorporated eco-friendly and ethical practices into their operations. Tune in to gain valuable inspiration and practical tips for driving positive environmental and social change in your own business endeavours. First, Alex Holliman, Managing Director at Climbing Trees, speaks with our reporter Chris Penhall about the benefits of winning a 2024 King's Award in the 'Sustainable Development' category. He details the sustainable practices that led to this recognition for their Essex-based B Corp business. Next, we hear from Portia Patel, Co-Founder of ESGmark, who shares her insights on the impact of Environmental, Social, and Governance standards and discusses how businesses can integrate these principles to drive sustainability and ethical practices. Additionally, Chris Penhall talks with Joe Benton, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Essex Wildlife Trust, about the charity's work and how organisations of all sizes can make a real difference to the environment while supporting wildlife conservation efforts. Finally, Jill Poet, CEO of the Organisation for Responsible Businesses, discusses how she has been guiding companies of all sizes toward ethical and sustainable practices for nearly 15 years. The Essex Business Podcast will be taking a short break over the summer period, but we will return soon with another episode. Stay tuned. Recorded July 2024 Guest speakers: Alex Holliman, Managing Director at Climbing Trees Portia Patel, Co-Founder of ESGmark Joe Benton, Corporate Partnerships Manager at Essex Wildlife Trust Jill Poet, CEO of the Organisation for Responsible Businesses
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#46 Navigating the sale process: Tips and pitfalls
06/05/2024
#46 Navigating the sale process: Tips and pitfalls
Selling a business involves more than just finding a buyer; it requires meticulous planning, negotiation skills, and an understanding of a range of legal and financial implications. In this episode, we focus on the intricacies of navigating the sale process, discussing common challenges and best practices to ensure a successful transaction. First, Paul Forsyth, Partner at Ellisons Solicitors, speaks with our reporter Chris Penhall about key legal aspects of the sales process. He discusses complex areas such as contract negotiations, legal due diligence, and minimising legal risks for sellers. We also hear from Craig Hubert, a Multiple Business Owner in the Hair and Beauty industry, who shares his first-hand experience of selling The Vintage Cosmetic Company, a business he founded in 2011. Craig provides insights into the sale process, highlighting the nuances of negotiating with buyers and managing unexpected obstacles that may arise. Finally, Mark Brooks, Corporate Finance Director at Rickard Luckin, explains the various financial elements to consider when selling a business. Mark delves into topics such as deal structures and negotiation tactics, the emotional and mental aspects of selling a business, and ensuring a smooth exit strategy. Recorded June 2024 Guest speakers: Paul Forsyth, Partner at Ellisons Solicitors Craig Hubert, Multiple Business Owner in the Hair and Beauty industry Mark Brooks, Corporate Finance Director at Rickard Luckin
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#45 The power of networking: Nurturing relationships for success
04/30/2024
#45 The power of networking: Nurturing relationships for success
In this episode, we explore the power of networking with three Essex-based networkers and relationship-building experts. From leveraging social media to attending industry events, our guests share practical tips and strategies for expanding your network, nurturing meaningful relationships, and unlocking new opportunities. To kick things off, Aaron Desmond, Founder of Networking Essex, the largest networking group in the county, speaks to our reporter Chris Penhall about how his journey began with Networking Essex and the importance of effectively networking to harness new business opportunities. We also hear from Matthew Rowe, Director of MJR Marketing and PR Consultancy Ltd, who provides valuable insights into how he is utilising networking and relationship building to drive the growth of his own start-up. Finally, Eve Calderbank, Creator of Ambitious Women in Essex, an initiative affiliated with Essex County Council, shares her experiences in establishing this network. Renowned for supporting local women throughout their careers and its highly coveted networking events across Essex, Ambitious Women in Essex has become a beacon of empowerment and opportunity in the county. Recorded April 2024 Guest speakers: Aaron Desmond, Founder of Networking Essex Matthew Rowe, Director of MJR Marketing and PR Consultancy Ltd Eve Calderbank, Co-Chair of Essex County Council’s Women’s Network and Creator of Ambitious Women in Essex
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#44 Leadership lessons: Inspiring success in a dynamic business world
03/28/2024
#44 Leadership lessons: Inspiring success in a dynamic business world
In this episode, we talk to three Essex-based business leaders about their personal stories, the challenges they have overcome, and the leadership principles that have guided them to success. This episode offers valuable insights into effective leadership strategies that you can implement in your own business pursuits. Reporter Chris Penhall speaks to Lis McCormick, Director at McCormick Consultants Ltd, about her roles as both a leader and a consultant, as well as offering invaluable insights into overcoming common challenges and fostering effective leadership practices. Also, David Malthouse, Managing Director of First Intuition Chelmsford, recounts his evolution from accountant to trainer to business owner. David discusses the obstacles he has faced on his path of personal and professional development. Plus, Jane Gurney, CEO of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust, reflects on her journey to her current position, sharing the lessons she has learned along the way. Jane also sheds light on the unique challenges faced by leaders in the charitable sector. Recorded March 2024 Guest speakers: Lis McCormick, Director at McCormick Consultants Ltd David Malthouse, Managing Director of First Intuition Chelmsford Jane Gurney, CEO of Essex & Herts Air Ambulance Trust
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#43 Digital transformation: Leveraging technology for business success
02/29/2024
#43 Digital transformation: Leveraging technology for business success
In this episode, we explore the digital landscape alongside three Essex business leaders who have embraced technology to drive growth and innovation. Learn about their digital transformation journeys, the tools and strategies they found most effective, and how technology has become a crucial component of their overall business strategy. Reporter Chris Penhall speaks to Matt Carr, Co-Founder of ECOedge, who explains how their start-up company is leveraging technology to propel its journey. Also, Stuart Belbin, Senior Account Executive at Ascend Broking Group Ltd, talks about the increasing integration of technology in the insurance sector. Plus, Hilary Collins, Founder of Colchester-based Big Wave PR, engages in conversation with Chris Penhall regarding the influence technology has had on the operations of the PR and marketing world, and how AI can be of assistance… on occasions! Recorded February 2024 Guest speakers: Matt Carr, Co-Founder of ECOedge Stuart Belbin, Senior Account Executive at Ascend Broking Group Ltd Hilary Collins, Founder of Big Wave PR
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#42 From local to global: Expanding your business horizons
01/30/2024
#42 From local to global: Expanding your business horizons
In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we dive into the dynamic world of business expansion, exploring the journeys of three successful entrepreneurs from Essex to uncover the challenges they faced, the lessons they learned, and the strategies they employed to successfully grow their business on a national and international level. Reporter Chris Penhall talks to Alistair Hunter, Managing Director of The DS Group, about the company’s transition from a local to a national presence. Additionally, Nicky Crisp, Managing Director of Impamark, shares a captivating narrative detailing the evolution of a solo enterprise into an award-winning family-run company, boasting office locations in both Burnham-on-Crouch and Spain. Plus, we hear from David Bell, founder of Simboc, a UK-based consultancy firm specialising in business and technology that has expanded its reach internationally. Recorded January 2024 Guest speakers: Allistair Hunter, Managing Director at The DS Group Nicky Crisp, Managing Director at Impamark David Bell, Founder of Simboc
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#41 Crystal-ball gazing into 2024 – if we dare!
12/29/2023
#41 Crystal-ball gazing into 2024 – if we dare!
Predicting the future landscape of the business world is becoming increasingly difficult, but strategic planning for what lies ahead remains vital for organisations of all sizes. In this episode, we've asked three experts to gaze into their crystal balls and share their opinions on what’s in store for the Essex business scene in 2024. Ann Scott is Essex Development manager for the Federation of Small Businesses. Following her predictions at the onset of 2023, she spoke to our reporter, Chris Penhall about both potential challenges and opportunities for small businesses in the coming year. Plus, Ashton Hunt, Group Managing Director at Tees, provides a comprehensive overview of factors poised to impact businesses in the next 12 months and Andy Turner, Essex Director at Let’s Do Business Group, discusses some of the challenges ahead and the support they can provide. Recorded December 2023 Guest speakers: Ann Scott, Essex Development Manager for the Federation of Small Businesses Ashton Hunt, Group Managing Director at Tees Andy Turner, Essex Director at Let’s Do Business Group
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#40 Christmas trading – still the saviour of the retail and hospitality year?
11/30/2023
#40 Christmas trading – still the saviour of the retail and hospitality year?
In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, amidst the festive aroma of mince pies and satsumas, we explore the significance of Christmas as the pivotal lifeline for the retail sector. The widespread belief suggests that the holiday season is a decisive make-or-break period for many businesses. However, we examine whether this notion still holds true, or if it has evolved into something of a myth. Reporter Chris Penhall talks to Sara Tupper, Chelmsford BID Manager, on how the city centre retail scene gears up to get tills ringing during the Christmas season, and Helen Wood, Manager at Colchester Waterstones looks at the importance of Christmas on the retail/hospitality sector. Plus, Laura Muncey, Senior Lecturer in Economics at Anglia Ruskin University, provides a broader economic context to the discussion, exploring how external factors such as inflation and global events may be influencing Christmas trading in Essex. Recorded November 2023 Guest speakers: Sara Tupper, Chelmsford BID Manager Helen Wood, Manager at Waterstones, Colchester Laura Muncey, Senior Lecturer in Economics at Anglia Ruskin University
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#39 Getting the best out of hybrid working
11/05/2023
#39 Getting the best out of hybrid working
Hybrid working is now considered to be the new norm in many sectors, so in this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we explore how employers can get the right balance and maximise productivity whilst simultaneously ensuring their employees are fully engaged with the business. Lis McCormick, Director at McCormick Consultants Ltd talks to our reporter, Chris Penhall about the multifaceted challenges that companies face when navigating the world of hybrid working and Sarah Humphryes, Assistant Marketing Manager at Birkett Long, shares her experiences. Plus, Maldon-based elite performance coach, Dr Stephen Simpson, discusses effective ways to manage performance and stress when people are working in different locations. Recorded October 2023 Guest speakers: Lis McCormick, Director at McCormick Consultants Ltd Sarah Humphryes, Assistant Marketing Manager at Birkett Long Dr Stephen Simpson, Elite Performance Coach
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#38 Apprenticeships: the answer to our skills prayers?
09/29/2023
#38 Apprenticeships: the answer to our skills prayers?
As another batch of apprentices embark on new careers, and with apprenticeships available in just about every subject you can imagine, we ask whether apprenticeships are key to solving the skills shortages affecting so many sectors of business. In this episode, we hear from Hannah O’Brien and Toni Parrish, Employer Engagement Officers at Adult Community Learning Essex, which oversees hundreds of apprenticeships every year, and Debianne Messenger, Work Based Learning Manager at Career Track, an apprenticeship training provider working with local authorities and businesses in the Essex, Suffolk and Kent areas. Plus, our reporter, Chris Penhall, talks to Carol Magnus from Tendring District Council about what the experience is like for organisations who take on apprentices. Recorded September 2023 Guest speakers: Hannah O’Brien and Toni Parrish, Employer Engagement Officers at Adult Community Learning Essex Debianne Messenger, Work Based Learning Manager at Career Track Carol Magnus at Tendring District Council
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#37 Town/city centres: open for business?
09/01/2023
#37 Town/city centres: open for business?
In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we discuss the future of town and city centres, focusing specifically on Colchester where town centre businesses have just voted for the renewal of the Our Colchester BID (Business Improvement District). Are town and city centres dying on their feet or are they merely going through a period of reinvention? We hear from Peter Richardson, Colchester-based business owner and resident, about the changes he has seen in centre of this new city, Sam Good, Our Colchester BID Manager, on what difference the BID has made these past five years and what challenges still lie ahead, and Matthew Brown, Economic Regeneration Manager at Colchester City Council, who talks about what plans are in place to boost the city centre. Recorded August 2023 Guest speakers: Peter Richardson, Publishing Editor of Business Time in Essex Sam Good, Our Colchester BID Manager Matthew Brown, Economic Regeneration Manager at Colchester City Council
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#36 Crowning Glory: The King’s Awards for Enterprise
07/28/2023
#36 Crowning Glory: The King’s Awards for Enterprise
We dive into the glitz and glamour of the highly anticipated King’s Awards for Enterprise, a prestigious event that recognizes and celebrates the outstanding achievements of local businesses, and explore the profound impact that awards have on the growth and development of businesses within the Essex community. In this episode our reporter, Chris Penhall, talks to Keith Attwood, Deputy Lieutenant of Essex, about the upcoming King’s Awards for Enterprise and the positive effect they can have on the overall business ecosystem. Plus, we hear from Martin Series, Director of Services at Global Resale, Melissa Aylott of Stockvale, which owns Southend’s Adventure Island and Sealife Adventure, and Marcus Watson, Non-Executive Director at Ground Control. These previous winners share their experiences with the awards, reflecting on the long-lasting benefits that their businesses have gained from being acknowledged. If you’re interested in applying for the King’s Awards for Enterprise, go to for more details and to submit your application. Recorded July 2023 Guest speakers: Keith Attwood, Deputy Lieutenant of Essex Martin Series, Director of Services at Global Resale Melissa Aylott of Stockvale and Marcus Watson, Non-Executive Director at Ground Control
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#35 Why work five days when four will do?
06/30/2023
#35 Why work five days when four will do?
A recent trial in the North-East found employers and employees alike favoured a four-day week. In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we ask if this could be the future and are we about to see a seismic shift in traditional working patterns. Our reporter, Chris Penhall, talks to Carla Beard, Director at Colchester-based Koala Digital, who has successfully implemented a four-day work week in their company, and Catherine Hodds, HR Consultant in Birketts' Employment Team, provides a comprehensive understanding of how a four-day work week can enhance employee satisfaction, engagement, and retention, including tips on reshaping company culture, fostering collaboration, and optimising time management. Plus, we hear from Karen Morovic, Senior Employment Law Solicitor at Birkett Long, who discusses the legal implications that employers and employees need to consider when transitioning to a four-day work week, such as wage and hour laws, benefits and compensation structures and employee contracts. Recorded June 2023 Guest speakers: Carla Beard, Director at Koala Digital Catherine Hodds, HR Consultant at Birketts Karen Morovic, Senior Employment Law Solicitor at Birkett Long
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#34 It's a family affair
05/30/2023
#34 It's a family affair
In an age when multinational conglomerates grab most of the headlines, for good or bad, family-run businesses are still the bedrock of most communities. With the search on by Family Business United to find the top 50 family businesses in Essex, this episode looks at the continuing important role played by family businesses, not just in term of direct employment, but in the broader supportive role they play within the local community. In this episode, we talk to Paul Andrews, Managing Director at Family Business United, about what the organisation is setting out to do. Plus, we hear from David Boyden, Managing Partner at Colchester-based Boydens Estate Agents and Robyn Holmes, Managing Director of recruitment firm Prime Appointments, about their family-owned and family-run businesses. Recorded May 2023 Guest speakers: Paul Andrews, Managing Director at Family Business United David Boyden, Managing Partner at Boydens Estate Agents Robyn Holmes, Managing Director of Prime Appointments
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#33 The next budding Alan Sugar - Exploring the ambitious entrepreneurs of Essex
04/28/2023
#33 The next budding Alan Sugar - Exploring the ambitious entrepreneurs of Essex
Are there still up-and-coming and highly ambitious entrepreneurs rising through the ranks across Essex? In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast we speak to some of the people in the county making their mark, and find out about the support they are receiving to realise their potential and what they are learning along the way. Offering their thoughts are Ben Smyth, CEO and founder of Colchester-based insurance company with a difference, , talks about his award-winning journey to date and Dan Hugo, Managing Director at , shares his experiences of the challenges and successes involved in transforming his video production business into a cutting-edge company. Plus, Kevin Thomas, Director at , stresses the importance of having an accountant who can offer practical advice, not just carry out number-crunching. Recorded April 2023 Guest speakers: Ben Smyth, CEO and founder of Arma Karma Dan Hugo, Managing Director at Outline Media Productions Kevin Thomas, Director at Rickard Luckin
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#32 Finding your business a home
03/30/2023
#32 Finding your business a home
Particularly in the aftermath of Covid and the increase in hybrid working, settling on the right size and type of office premises is quite a challenge. This episode of the Essex Business Podcast looks at what people are searching for, what is available in Essex, what will it cost and how do you best source it? Offering their views are Mike Gray, Managing Director at south Essex-based property consultants, and Joshua Warren, Managing Director of just outside Colchester. Plus, we hear from Kate Everett, Managing Director at , who has recently relocated her business from Brantham to the Evolve Business Centre on the outskirts of Colchester. Recorded March 2023 Guest speakers: Mike Gray, Managing Director at Dedman Gray Joshua Warren, Managing Director of Lodge Park Business Centre Kate Everett, Managing Director at The Write Impression
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#31 AI - is the future already here?
02/28/2023
#31 AI - is the future already here?
Artificial Intelligence has been talked about for a while now, but still often with an air of what could happen in the future. The reality is somewhat different, and AI is playing an increasingly key role in business life. In episode 31 of the Essex Business Podcast, we talk to Dr Faraz Janan, Senior Lecturer at in Cambridge, who discusses artificial intelligence in medicine. We also hear from Daniel Freer, Head of Software, and Marc Jones, Business Director at Chelmsford-based , an award-winning start-up providing affordable robotics for sustainable agriculture. Plus, Alex Lowe, Podcaster and Director at , discusses the impact of AI on his working life. Recorded February 2023 Guest speakers: Dr Faraz Janan, Senior Lecturer at Anglia Ruskin University Daniel Freer, Head of Software and Marc Jones, Business Director at Antobot Alex Low, The Death of a Salesman Podcaster and Director at Beyond Sales
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#30 R&D investment - Building an innovative economy in Essex
01/31/2023
#30 R&D investment - Building an innovative economy in Essex
Research & Development (R&D) investment has fallen by over 300% in Essex since 2002, which is now hindering productivity growth of the county’s businesses. With Rishi Sunak declaring his desire to make the UK the most innovative economy in the world, how can Essex businesses play their part in growing a culture of creative thinking and supporting innovation? In the latest episode of the Essex Business Podcast, David Rose, Tax Associate at , discusses the changes to R&D tax reliefs coming this April, as well the actions HMRC are taking as part of their fraud prevention measures. Plus, Michael Veasey, Sector Development and Partnership Manager at , addresses the issue of the lack of innovation and R&D investment by Essex businesses and their aspirations to stop the rot. Andrea Reynolds, CEO of also explains the financial support available to Essex businesses. Recorded January 2023 Guest speakers: David Rose, Tax Associate at Rickard Luckin Michael Veasey, Sector Development and Partnership Manager at Essex County Council Andrea Reynolds, CEO of Swoop Funding
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#29 Crystal ball gazing - what will 2023 hold for Essex businesses?
12/23/2022
#29 Crystal ball gazing - what will 2023 hold for Essex businesses?
As 2022 comes to an end (hooray will be the cry of many!), what challenges will 2023 offer and how will Essex likely rise to these challenges? With at least a whiff of uncertainty still likely to be hanging in the air, what will 2023 hold in store for the under-pressure Essex businessperson? Will we be soaring skyward or bumping along the runway? In this episode we hear from Ann Scott, Development Manager at the , who gives a county-wide perspective of what 2023 might look like for businesses, and Sarah McKee-Harris, Managing Director at the , discusses hybrid working, employee wellbeing and how employers are adapting to new expectations. Plus, Councillor Marie Goldman, Deputy Leader of Chelmsford City Council and Chair of the (NEEB), looks at what support is available for the Essex businesses who need it. Recorded December 2022 Guest speakers: Ann Scott, Development Manager at the Essex Federation of Small Businesses Sarah McKee-Harris, Managing Director at the Kingswood Group Cllr Marie Goldman, Deputy Leader of Chelmsford City Council and Chair of the North Essex Economic Board (NEEB)
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#28 Hunkering down for winter - business winter survival guide
11/25/2022
#28 Hunkering down for winter - business winter survival guide
With endless talk of soaring energy bills and the cost-of-living crisis, which hit businesses as much as individual consumers, what can businesses do to save on costs and protect their bottom line? In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we speak to Paul Hughes from , who offers advice on ways for businesses to reduce energy and water bills, and Neil Griffin, Director at the , explains how their range of flexible working accommodation models help keep office costs down. Plus, Dean McCormack, Associate at discusses why it’s never been more important for businesses to have a firm handle on cash flow. Read Dean's latest article on cash flow forecasts . Recorded November 2022 Guest speakers: Paul Hughes, Energy Broker at PLH Utilities Neil Griffin, Director at the Innovation Centre Knowledge Gateway Dean McCormack, Associate at Rickard Luckin
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#27 - A county of three cities – but what’s in a name?
10/31/2022
#27 - A county of three cities – but what’s in a name?
After so many years of being a city-less county, Essex now boasts three, following this year’s news that Southend and then Colchester were to join Chelmsford as having city status bestowed upon them. But what does this mean economically for the county? A path to new riches or simply a name-change? In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we look at what city status has done for the Chelmsford business scene as it celebrates its tenth anniversary as a city, and we explore the potential for Southend and Colchester. Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of , explains how has Chelmsford benefited from its promotion to city status in 2012 and Chris Hodson from in Chelmsford discusses how city status has changed business prospects and mentality in Chelmsford over the past ten years. Plus, Cllr David King, Leader of , highlights what city status means, or could mean, economically, for the newly appointed city of Colchester. Recorded October 2022 Guest speakers: Cllr Stephen Robinson, Leader of Chelmsford City Council Chris Hodson, Director at Pitman Training Cllr David King, Leader of Colchester Council
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#26 Strength in partnerships – does charity now begin in the boardroom?
09/30/2022
#26 Strength in partnerships – does charity now begin in the boardroom?
There was a time when businesses supported charities out of the goodness of their hearts, sustaining not much more than a warm glow in the process. Times, though, have moved on. Nowadays, supporting charities is an important business decision and the ongoing relationship which ensues is very much a strong two-way partnership designed to benefit both the business (be it from the private or public sector) and the charity. Discussing these mutual benefits is Lyndsay Wood, Corporate Fundraising Manager at , who describes how corporate partners can help EHAAT as a charity and what the charity gives back to the corporate sector in return. We also speak to Anastasia Simpson from , who explains its role in supporting (CVST) as the voluntary body in turns supports dozens of local charity and voluntary sector organisations. Plus, we hear from Sally Powell, Executive Partner at leading legal firm, , which this year created the Tees Better Future Fund, offering grants up to £5,000 for projects that support learning and education and promoting good health and wellbeing in the areas where it conducts business. Recorded September 2022 Guest speakers: Lyndsay Wood, Corporate Fundraising Manager at Anastasia Simpson, Assistant Director of Partnerships at Sally Powell, Executive Partner at
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#25 Funding – make it your business to uncover the many options
09/01/2022
#25 Funding – make it your business to uncover the many options
When it comes to funding for your business, the days when a meeting with your bank manager was the best or only option are long gone. Crowdfunding, tokenization and special purpose acquisition companies are just some of the avenues you can now explore, in addition to the more traditional routes. In this episode, we talk to Jacqui Stimpson from Best Growth Hub, a government-backed organisation that guides business owners through many of the funding streams that may be available to them, and Paul Mumford from Monoki Media explains how he found the right funding for his company. Plus, Paul Sullivan from the British Business Bank explains what the organisation does to help small businesses. Recorded August 2022 Guest speakers: Jacqui Stimpson, Operations and Compliance Manager at Paul Mumford, Owner of Paul Sullivan, Senior Manager for the UK Network Team at the - East of England
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#24 Passing it down - celebrating family businesses throughout Essex
07/11/2022
#24 Passing it down - celebrating family businesses throughout Essex
Rickard Luckin has teamed up with Family Business United to find the oldest family firms across Essex and celebrate family businesses throughout the county. To mark the occasion, episode 24 of the Essex Business Podcast features Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of , and James Boustead, Tax Director at who highlight why they’re running this inaugural piece of research, what makes this sector so special and some of the challenges that this community face, such as succession planning, family conflict and tax planning. If you know of any family businesses that were formed before 1922 and continue under family ownership today, we want to hear from them. To take part in the campaign, simply visit and complete the form. Recorded July 2022 Guest speakers: Paul Andrews, Founder and CEO of James Boustead, Tax Director at
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#23 Home, office or hybrid – which works best?
06/30/2022
#23 Home, office or hybrid – which works best?
Now the dust appears to have mostly settled on the COVID crisis, one debate still rages: where should we all be working? Should we by now be back in the office 100% of the time, should we still have the freedom to work from home, or should we be combining the best of both worlds? Views vary, but in episode 23 we discuss the options for employers and employees alike. Jessica Douglas, Strategic People and Performance Manager at , talks about the ground-breaking flexible working policy they introduced in 2011 and we hear from Ann Scott, Associate Regional Director for East of England , who has a firm finger on the flexible-working pulse of many businesses across Essex and the rest of the East of England Plus, Joann Kebbell, Partner and Director of HR & L&D at leading Essex law firm , explains how they had to react to the strict COVID restrictions and how they sought to find a balance as the guidelines eased. Recorded June 2022 Guest speakers: Jessica Douglas, Strategic People and Performance Manager at Colchester Borough Council Ann Scott, Associate Regional Director for East of England CBI Joann Kebbell, Partner and Director of HR and L&D at Birkett Long
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#22 Energise your thinking to save on costs
06/06/2022
#22 Energise your thinking to save on costs
The current cost of living crisis is impacting on businesses every bit as much as it is on individuals. Soaring energy costs are a major contributory factor to the headaches faced by business owners as they try to keep overheads under control. In Episode 22 of the Essex Business Podcast we talk about viable solutions to the issues we currently face, with organisations who are helping to make difference. Neil Fright, CEO at , discusses how companies can make their energy consumption smarter and Marialena Papadopoulou-Kipou, Business Energy Advisor at (Low Carbon Across the South and East), provides advice on grants available to help businesses become more competitive and profitable, while protecting the environment and encouraging low carbon solutions. Plus, Peter Newson, Managing Director at , explains how the LoCASE grant helped him reduce his business’s electricity consumption and carbon emissions. Recorded May 2022 Guest speakers: Neil Fright, Managing Director at Carbon Numbers Marialena Papadopoulou-Kipou, Business Energy Advisor at LoCASE Peter Newson, Managing Director at Anglia Sports & Schoolwear Ltd
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#21 The importance of company culture
04/29/2022
#21 The importance of company culture
The pandemic brought about swift change and company culture was thrust firmly into the spotlight. Remote working, coupled with the accelerated adoption of digital tools, and individuals evaluating work/life balance all became the norm and business leaders were tasked with keeping everything on track. In this episode of the Essex Business Podcast, we look at how a strong organisational culture, clear vision and robust company values can have a huge impact on everything from recruitment and retention, right through to the bottom line. Jonathan Austin, CEO at , explains the importance of a strong company culture, how to create meaningful change and how the Best Companies employee engagement survey can encourage and celebrate an engaged workforce; , Professional Certified Leadership Coach, offers advice and tips on how business leaders can build better workplace cultures and cultivate a clear organizational identity; and Stuart Burns, Managing Director at , talks about his firm’s company values, how their organisational culture has changed during the past few years, and the processes they have put in place to achieve their goals. Recorded April 2022 Guest speakers: Jonathan Austin, CEO at Best Companies Angela Dellar, Professional Certified Leadership Coach Stuart Burns, Managing Director at Dura Composites
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#20 Mind the skills gap – it’s getting bigger!
03/31/2022
#20 Mind the skills gap – it’s getting bigger!
Ask any business owner the biggest challenge they face, the chances are the answer will be the skills gap. Recruiting people with the necessary skills to keep a business moving forward is becoming increasingly difficult. Episode 20 of the Essex Business Podcast seeks to answer the question: why has it become so difficult to find the right people to fill that job vacancy. We speak to Andy Hilliard, Managing Director of accountancy and law private practice recruitment consultancy , about the underlying gap between the skills and experience that employers are looking for in comparison to the experience that jobseekers actually have, and how this current mismatch is creating challenges for employees and employers alike. John Stevens, Director of talks about his experience of finding the right people for the jobs he has, and Professional Career Transformation Coach, , explains how he works with individuals to identify skills gaps and mindset issues on their professional journey, and highlights the focus on softer skills that can help move people forward in their corporate career. Recorded March 2022 Guest speakers: Andy Hilliard, Managing Director of AJ Chambers John Stevens, Director of Excalibur Screwbolts Jimi Wall, Professional Career Transformation Coach
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#19 Sustainability – why businesses must be at the forefront of the battle
02/28/2022
#19 Sustainability – why businesses must be at the forefront of the battle
Perhaps the most important issue facing all of us as individuals – the sustainability of our planet - is also an essential issue for every business owner. Increasingly, the ‘green credentials’ of a business are being scrutinised by both customers and would-be employees alike, and so we take a closer look at what companies can do to improve their sustainability credentials and how Essex businesses are leading the way. In this extended episode of the Essex Business Podcast, Essex County Council's Climate Czar, Cllr Peter Schwier explains his role and highlights what is being done in Essex in the battle to address climate change, as well as the grant funds available to help businesses. Plus, Professor Jules Pretty, Chair of Essex County Council's explains why the voluntary body was set up and its work towards becoming a net zero emissions county. Later on in the episode we talk to Jill Poet, founder of the about what companies of all sizes can to do play their part, and speak to four business leaders to find out what they are doing to make a difference. Andy King, Group Technical Director at discusses their recently launched carbon management plan, Kathryn Hughes, Director at , explains how sustainability is very much part of their business, Chris Squires, Senior Account Manager at talks about how migrating to the Cloud can help reduce energy consumption and Sally Powell, Executive Partner at explains why they have signed up to the Brentwood Environmental Business Alliance as part of their broader CSR aims. Recorded February 2022 Guest speakers: Cllr Peter Schwier, Essex County Council’s Climate Czar Professor Jules Pretty, Chair of Essex County Council’s Essex Climate Action Commission Jill Poet, founder and director of the Organisation for Responsible Businesses Andy King, Group Technical Director at Wernick Group Kathryn Hughes, Director at The Big Bear Cider Mill Chris Squires, Senior Account Manager at fos.net Sally Powell, Executive Partner at Tees Law
/episode/index/show/essexbusinesspodcast/id/22282484
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#18 Apprenticeships – are they a cost-effective way of investing in your business’s future?
02/03/2022
#18 Apprenticeships – are they a cost-effective way of investing in your business’s future?
Over the past few years apprenticeships have begun to increase in popularity again, and with skills shortages often quoted as a key issue facing organisations in a range of sectors, we look at what is involved in taking on an apprentice and the long and short term benefits they can bring to an organisation. In this episode we talk to Toni Marshall, Employer Engagement Officer for Adult Community Learning in Essex, about how they support both apprentices and employers, and David Malthouse from First Intuition, who specialise in high quality accountancy training, explains how apprenticeships offer excellent opportunities for individuals and companies. Recorded January 2022 Guest speakers: Toni Marshall, Employer Engagement Officer for ACL Essex David Malthouse, Managing Director at First Intuition
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