On Balance Autumn/Winter 2015

Issue 8 Autumn/Winter 2015
3
INTRODUCTION
In this latest issue of On Balance our central
theme is risk – and how it can be most effectively
managed, reduced and mitigated.
As you will see from the broad array of articles
by our own specialists and guest contributors,
the issue of risk has many wide-ranging
implications for organisations of all sizes, in all
sectors. Our aim as always, is to educate and
inform in an engaging format.
Handling regulatory issues around big data
represents a major challenge, but Carl Wiper,
Senior Policy Officer at the Information
Commissioner’s Office, explains how businesses
can also make the most of opportunities around
data regulation.
Elsewhere in this issue, Mark Poulston explains
why employers should look at their pension
offering and David Rogers outlines how
construction firms can protect themselves by
harnessing professional experience.
We also feature a news story on our support
for HOME in Manchester, the largest arts centre
outside London, along with a report on a new
service launched by Weightmans that helps
businesses to mitigate uninsured ‘historic’
disease claims.
We hope you find these articles interesting
and helpful – and, as always, we welcome your
thoughts and feedback.
Every business faces a crisis at some stage in
its life cycle and how you handle it with your
key stakeholders can make a huge difference.
Bob Bion, crisis management specialist at
PR agency Twentyfour7 provides his thoughts.
Also in this issue, Elaine McIlroy discusses the
main issues around the tough stance being taken
by both the government and the courts to crack
down on employers who flout immigration rules.
Meanwhile, Mark Surguy explains what action
companies must take if they fall foul of fraudulent
financial practice; James Knowles reveals why
failing to make a Will can create a risk to both
family and business partners; and John Coen
suggests effective solutions for pub company
licensees dealing with regulatory requirements.
You can also find out about the tax implications
behind various corporate transactions from
Haydn Rogan, while David Mathias examines the
implications of community groups preserving
local facilities for future generations.
Tim Lang, Commercial Director
0121 200 8111
tim.lang@weightmans.com