Prosper Summer digital

THE REGION’S LONGEST-RUNNING BUSINESS PUBLICATION
BLACK COUNTRY
PROSPER
SUMMER 2024
Looking to the future
Paycare’s Anthony Burns on the
importance of succession planning

WELCOME TO PROSPER
A time of changes – with more to come
Sarah Moorhouse, CEO, Black Country Chamber
Welcome to the latest issue of Prosper,
featuring news and views from the
Black Country Chamber of Commerce.
The national focus is now upon the
forthcoming General Election, to take
place on 4th July, with the economy high
up on the campaign agenda.
As a non-political organisation, we want
to see businesses of all sizes benefit from
economic stability and will support our
members throughout the coming months.
Whichever party holds power after the
poll, we will promote the views of Black
Country businesses to ensure jobs, skills,
trade and investment are prioritised.
The Chamber of Commerce played a
key role in the Business Commission
West Midlands’ recent report, which said
businesses ‘need to see a sense of
urgency and ambition’ in order to seize
growth opportunities. As the leading
regional business support agency for the
region we will work with the newly-elected
MPs in the next Parliament to do
everything we can to realise these goals.
Changing aspirations
Away from the election, change is a
constant in the region, with the Chamber
actively working to help create the best
community in which to live, work and do
business.
I recently shared with the Chamber
board my vision for the year ahead, which
will focus on supporting members to
strengthen and grow.
Within the Chamber we are developing
an aspirational mindset and culture,
activating pathways to deliver and aiming
to execute our work with excellence.
As part of this process we have shaped
new values, which we will live by, in
putting the interests of our members and
the Black Country business community
at the heart of everything we do.
Courage is our first value, chosen by
the Chamber team through a recent
process, as in business it is a quality that
often separates the extraordinary from
the ordinary.
Collaboration is our second value, as it
is the practice of working together to pool
resources, understand each other’s
strengths, create value and solve
problems. Integrity is our third value, as it
drives us to be authentic, transparent
and honest which will in turn create
respectful relationships alike.
We look forward to working to these
values over the year ahead.
New Mayor
Collaboration will be vital as the Chamber
works with Richard Parker following his
recent election as West Midlands Mayor.
We congratulate him on his win and look
forward to working with him and his team
on delivering our shared priorities.
Together we can work to fulfill the actions
called for in the Business Commission
West Midlands report, to build a more
prosperous future.
That report showed it is essential that
we have the right structures in place
across areas such as skills, employment
land and technology in order to help our
existing businesses expand and grow.
We support Richard’s ambitions to
create new jobs, invest in skills and drive
economic growth across the West
Midlands and are ready to work with him
to maximise opportunities for
employment, investment and innovation.
It is important to thank Andy Street for
his service to the region while Mayor.
Andy was a realist about the challenges
the region faces but was an open and
personable partner, who wanted to
receive updates which could be used to
improve the West Midlands.
Always data-led, he championed the
best of the region and could be relied
upon to know everything from the top
level facts through to, say, the latest
take-up of the apprenticeship levy locally.
He was a supporter of HS2 and the
opportunities it would generate, and as
he showed on the Crooked House case,
he understood the issues close to the
hearts of people in the Black Country.
On behalf of the Chamber I thank him
for his support and wish him well for the
future.
Awards
The Black Country is renowned for its
camaraderie, so we look forward to
reading your submissions for the annual
Black Country Chamber Business Awards.
I would encourage every business of
every size to draw on the support of the
Chamber team to submit entries which
will allow us to showcase our region’s
best businesses to the rest of the UK.
It is pleasing to see so many new
partners come on board as category
sponsors including Daniel-Scott
Recruitment, last year’s winner of the
start-up prize and now the sponsor for
this year’s award.
It speaks volumes about the value of
the awards that they want to be on stage
to hand the trophy to the next winner.
Succession is the theme of this
Prosper, so their involvement is a fitting
embodiment of the important ways which
every business can play their role in our
combined future.
You can contact
Sarah via email
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 03

CONTACTS
Editor
Osborn Communications
prosper@blackcountrychamber.co.uk
Membership
Sian Roberts
Sales and Marketing Director
07714 740818
sianroberts@
blackcountrychamber.co.uk
Publisher
Chamber Media Services
4 Hilton Road, Bramhall
Stockport, Cheshire
SK7 3AG
Advertising
Colin Regan
01942 537959
colinregan001@yahoo.co.uk
Production
Rob Beswick
0161 426 7957
07964 375216
rob@chambermediaservices.co.uk
Cover Photography
Succession planning and Paycare,
with Anthony Burns.
Photographers: Cover and main article
(pg 52), Michelle Williams
With thanks to Dr Euripides Altintzoglou,
Course Leader (Photography) and
Sam Wood, Lecturer (Photography),
University of Wolverhampton,
School of Creative Industries.
BLACK COUNTRY
PROSPER
52
THE CHAMBER PATRON GROUP
Succession
planning,
from a
company
that’s been
through it
Black Country Prosper Magazine is the official magazine of the
Black Country Chamber of Commerce.
It provides news, views, interviews, opinion and debate along with
information and insights.
Prosper is the region’s longest running business publication .
Produced on a quarterly basis, the magazine is supported by an array of the
Black Country’s most influential business leaders and is read by business owners
throughout the region and further afield.
To find out more about advertising in Prosper, contact
Colin Regan on 01942 537959.
The work of the Black Country Chamber of Commerce is supported by these strategic
business partners working together to make the region a better place for business.
Although every effort is taken to ensure
the accuracy of material contained within
this magazine, neither the Black Country
Chamber of Commerce nor Chamber
Media Services can accept any
responsibility for omissions or
inaccuracies in its editorial or advertising
content.
The views expressed in this publication
are not necessarily those of the Chamber.
The carriage of adverts in this publication
does not constitute an endorsement of
the products or services advertised.
All articles within this publication are
copyright Black Country Chamber of
Commerce. Consent from the Chamber
and the publisher must be obtained
before any articles are reproduced either
in printed form or electronically.
As well as being available as a digital publication,
printed copies of Prosper are available from the
Chamber’s head office.
Follow the Chamber on
Twitter: @BCCCmembers
Instagram at
@blackcountrychamber
LinkedIn:
Search blackcountrychamber
Facebook: @BlackCountryChamber
Search BlackCountryChamber
READ ONLINE
40
O4 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

CONTACTS & CONTENTS
CONTENTS
08
Chamber’s
election
wish-list
10 Chamber Awards launched
30
Regional business
support plan
38
61
Backing start-ups
Exports advice
QES reveals health
of region’s economy
54
Students in
the fast lane
21
INSIDE...
Chamber News | Policy Updates
Members’ news | Events Diary
Training courses | Exports
42
PLUS special features on a call for more volunteers
to be school governors, YMCA Black Country
and the importance of succession planning
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 05

CHAMBER NEWS: MEET THE TEAM
Meet the team: The people
behind the Chamber
Sarah Moorhouse
Chief Executive
Officer
Lorna Taylor
Finance Director
Siân Roberts
Sales & Marketing
Director
Membership
Team
Gail Arnold
Head of Premium
Membership
Finance & Export
Documentation Team
Andrew Wells
Assistant
Accountant
Marketing and
Communications
Stephanie Sullivan
Head of Marketing
and Communications
Alison Trinder
Start-up Business
Manager
Malcolm Reid
Export Document Officer
Lauren Shepherd
Digital Marketing and
Communications
Manager
Gemma Shakespeare
Sales & Business
Relationship
Manager
Mandy Perry
Finance Assistant &
Export Document Officer
Owenia Francis
Apprentice
Content Creator
Steve Salt
Sales & Business
Relationship
Manager
Richard Hobbs
Sales & Business
Relationship
Manager
IGNITE Hub
Daniel Parkes
IGNITE Hub Customer
Service Advisor
Marie Shuker
Events & Project
Officer
Gemma Edwards
Policy & Impact
Officer
Tracey Jovicich
Membership
Administrator
Nicola Anderson
Receptionist
Osborn Communications
Press, PR and Prosper
Contact Us: 0330 024 0820
Membership: membership@blackcountrychamber.co.uk
06 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

CHAMBER NEWS: ELECTION SPECIAL
Prime Minister Rishi Sunak has said the General Election will take place on 4th July, ending months of speculation
about when the UK would go to the polls. The Black Country Chamber of Commerce and the British Chambers of
Commerce, as non-political membership organisations, will remain neutral as the parties compete for voters’ support.
Both have given their reaction on the priorities for the economy and support for business as the nation prepares to
decide the future of the country.
Chamber CEO welcomes General Election
to give businesses greater certainty
The CEO of Black Country Chamber of
Commerce welcomed the surprise
announcement of the summer General
Election. Sarah Moorhouse said she
hoped Prime Minister Rishi Sunak’s
decision to go to the country on
Thursday 4th July would reduce the
impact upon the economy from the
recent uncertainty surrounding the
timing of the poll.
In particular, Sarah said business
leaders welcomed that the UK’s
economic future was now high on the
political agenda as the debate raged over
who would form the next government.
Sarah said: “The end of the uncertainty
around the General Election taking place
at some point in the autumn is welcome
news for the business community.
“Given the challenges of recent years,
companies want to see economic stability
so they will be looking closely at the
manifestos put forward as they prepare
for the 4th July vote.
“As a non-political membership
organisation operating in a not-for-profit
capacity, we want to see businesses of all
sizes benefit from economic stability and
will support our members throughout the
months ahead through a range of
services.
“The Black Country Chamber played a
leading role in producing the recent
Business Commission West Midlands
(BCWM) report, which said businesses
‘need to see a sense of urgency and
ambition’ in order to seize growth
opportunities at a regional level.
“These ambitions around investment,
jobs, skills and training are shared when it
comes to our national direction from the
future Government so we look forward to
seeing the key issues debated in the
coming weeks.”
The General Election would inevitably
mean some regional politicians will no
longer be serving in the next parliament.
Sarah paid tribute to them: “Many MPs
who have served Black Country
constituencies and have proved
invaluable to the Chamber are stepping
down at this election, and we thank them
for their service.
“
We want to see businesses of all sizes benefit from
economic stability... as the recent Business Commission
West Midlands report stated, businesses ‘need to see a
sense of urgency and ambition in order to seize growth
opportunities at a regional level’, with investment, jobs,
skills and training a priority...
Sarah Moorhouse
“
“As the leading regional business
support agency for the Black Country we
will look forward to working with the
newly-elected representatives in the next
Parliament as part of our work to ensure
our members’ voices are heard loud and
clear at a national level.”
08 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Business needs a comprehensive strategy
to underpin the economic revival
British Chambers of
Commerce business
manifesto offers politicians
a five-point action plan
A five-point plan for immediate action by
the new government is at the heart of the
British Chambers of Commerce Election
Manifesto.
The BCC wants to see:
n An industrial strategy with green
innovation at its heart.
n Better skills planning, bringing
businesses and training providers
together.
n Business rates reform to encourage
growth and investment.
n Improved relations with the EU to
cut the costs for business.
n A Government-appointed AI
champion for SMEs to spearhead uptake
of new technology.
The five-point plan is part of the BCC’s
‘Future of the Economy’ manifesto.
The manifesto includes the biggest
ideas from a series of extensive policy
documents published this year, focusing
on the key economic challenges
identified by the BCC.
The challenges are: Green Innovation;
People and Work; Local Economies of the
Future; Global Britain; and the Digital
Revolution.
The manifesto has been brought
together after extensive consultation with
the Chamber network, the BCC’s
Business Council, external stakeholders,
and academics.
Baroness Martha Lane Fox, President
of the BCC said: “In the frenzy of the
election campaign, it’s crucial that all
politicians focus on the power of British
business.
“As I travel across the UK meeting
Chambers and their businesses, I hear
amazing stories of people determined to
grow their businesses and make a
difference in our remarkable country.
“But time and again businesses tell me
they want to see a long-term vision for
the economy.
“Our manifesto showcases practical
ideas on how politicians can help
companies successfully navigate the
challenges and opportunities our
economy faces. It’s a blueprint for
boosting productivity and a pathway to
higher growth.
“Whichever party is in power after 4th
July the immediate focus must be on
implementing our five-point-plan for
business.
“The stakes for business from the next
government could not be higher.”
Shevaun Haviland, Director-General of
the BCC said: “A General Election is an
important time for our country, our
economy, and our businesses.
“The companies we represent are the
drivers of economic growth and the
employers of millions of people.
“They need to know that politicians
have got their back. Once the votes are
counted – we want the Government to
know how to help business. Our fivepoint-plan
is clear.
“As companies play their part in the
UK’s net-zero journey, we desperately
need an industrial strategy with green
innovation at its heart.
“Firms are constantly telling us they
can’t get the skills they need. We need
better strategic planning on skills that
helps business and training providers
work together.
“In local communities, firms are crying
out for a fairer business rates system.
Shevaun Haviland, Director General of
the BCC, in conversation with Prime
Minister Rishi Sunak at a BCC event held
before the calling of the General Election
Over a quarter (26%) of companies told
us earlier this year they’d changed plans
to upgrade or open premises because of
the system.
“The EU is the UK’s biggest market, so
we urgently need to get a better trading
relationship with our closest neighbour.
“It’s not about rewriting the
referendum result, it’s about cutting
red-tape and promoting trade.
“The world of AI has huge potential to
boost economic productivity. But it’s
important that SMEs aren’t left behind, or
vulnerable, as new technology
accelerates.
“A Government-appointed AI champion
will help spearhead a boost in AI uptake
by SMEs.
“We believe our five-point plan creates
an immediate pathway for a new
Government, of whatever party, to help
businesses succeed. When business
succeeds, the country succeeds.”
n You can view the
manifesto here
“
It’s crucial that all politicians focus on the power of
British business... time and again business leaders tell me
they want to see a long-term vision for the economy...
Baroness Martha Lane Fox, President of the BCC
“
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 09

BLACK COUNTRY CHAMBER AWARDS
Countdown to annual
Chamber awards begins
Excitement is building for the 2024 Black Country Chamber of Commerce Awards on 21st November, the
region’s biggest and best celebration of the great and the good of our business community. Entries open
on 17th June, and your business could be centre stage as a winner on the most popular night in the
region’s business calendar. There are a host of awards categories to enter – find out more on these pages
Celebrate business success with the
Black Country Chamber Awards 2024
The Black Country’s business
trailblazers, innovators and community
champions will be honoured at the 23rd
annual Chamber of Commerce Awards
– and you can be part of it by submitting
an entry.
A dazzling celebration of the success
stories shaping our vibrant economic
landscape will be held on 21st November
with a glittering black tie dinner and
awards ceremony at The Halls
Wolverhampton, operated by AEG
Presents, honouring the very best of our
region’s business scene.
From exciting start-ups to established
powerhouses, every business has a story
to tell, and the Black Country Chamber of
Commerce is eager to amplify their
success.
The online award submission form
will go live on our website on 17th June.
The awards are FREE to enter for both
Chamber members and non-members
and you can enter in more than one
category if they are relevant to you.
As the leading regional support agency
for firms in the region, the Chamber
stages the annual awards as part of its
drive to provide opportunities for
businesses looking to grow, connect and
become part of a thriving network.
Last year’s sell-out awards night, held
in November, saw more than 500 guests
gather to celebrate a range of winners.
This year we will honour the remarkable
achievements and unwavering dedication
that drive our local economy.
Chamber of Commerce Events &
Project Officer Marie Shuker said: “We
cannot wait to review the next crop of
amazing submissions by businesses as
we prepare to honour the innovative,
impactful and resilient businesses of the
Black Country at this year’s awards night.
“We encourage all companies to speak
to their membership managers about
how they can put forward submissions.
“In 2023, we received the highest
number of applications ever seen in every
category, achieved a complete sell out for
the night and we had a long waiting list for
tickets.
“The range of categories reflect the
cross-section of sectors and sizes of
business, celebrating those who drive
forward growth and investment.
“Winners, finalists and partners will
receive widespread media coverage,
social media buzz, and the chance to take
up exclusive networking opportunities.”
Our compere and host will be TV and
radio sports broadcaster Amber Sandhu.
Amber, from Wolverhampton, works for
a number of broadcasters, including BBC
Asian Network, Sky Sports News, BBC
Midlands Today, Radio WM and 5live.
Black Country Chamber of Commerce
CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “As a proud
Black Country professional who has built
a career which continues to break new
ground, we are delighted to have Amber
as our host when we celebrate the very
best of the Black Country’s business
scene.”
10 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

2023 winners look
back with pride
Among the winners at the Chamber
awards in 2023 was YMCA Black Country
Group’s Kellie Simcox, who was named
Employee of the Year.
Speaking at the 2024 awards launch
event at The Halls Wolverhampton, Steve
Bavington, YMCA Black Country Group
CEO, said: “It was great to see Kellie
honoured last year. We’re really proud of
all of our staff, and a number could have
been nominated, but Kellie was
outstanding in terms of her commitment.
“These awards are a fantastic way to
reward staff who go above and beyond.”
Burke Bros Moving Group landed the
Family Business of the year prize. MD
Chris Burke said: “The award was not just
for the family but for all our employees
who contribute to our success. I would
recommend everyone takes a look at the
categories and considers entering.”
Other 2023 winners also spoke of their
pride of winning, at the launch event for
the 2024 celebrations.
School of Coding won the Employer of
the Year, and Cameron Atwal, its
assistant project manager said: “For us,
2023 award winners at the
2024 launch event, held at
The Halls, Wolverhampton
winning Employer of the Year has had a
huge impact on the business; it has
raised our profile and created a real
sense of pride.”
Steve Barnes from LeBronze Alloys
UK, winner in the International Trade
category, said: “The awards topped off a
hugely successful year for us and was a
great opportunity to celebrate everything
we had achieved as a team.”
Wolves Foundation won the Business
in the Community category, and Kieron
Ansell, business development manager,
said: “Winning the award was huge. For
us, it provides a platform to instil trust in
the business. Having the accreditation
and backing of the business community
is key to us and really valuable. If you
think that you fit the category criteria and
have a good story to tell, then apply. ”
Sandwell College was the winner in
Science, Technology & Innovation
category, and Jessica Lewis said: “We
were delighted to win the award, which
showcased our Fab Lab digital innovation.
The award was a really good way to raise
the college’s profile.”
Guests at the 2024 awards
launch at The Halls,
Wolverhampton
Turn over for more
details on the
awards categories
and our partners
Get top tips
on award
entry writing
PR experts Osborn Communications
is to host two free award writing
workshops in June and September.
The Black Country Chamber events
will offer businesses looking to raise
their profile through award wins
practical guidance on how to make
their entries stand out from the crowd.
The first workshop will take place
from 9.30am to 10.30am on Tuesday,
18th June at the Black Country &
Marches Institute of Technology in
Dudley.
The second will run from 9.30am to
10.30am on Tuesday, 3rd September
at the University of Wolverhampton
Science Park in Wolverhampton.
The events have been launched to
help businesses considering entering
the Chamber’s Business Awards.
Osborn Communications, which
won the Black Country Chamber of
Commerce start-up of the year
award in 2021, produces successful
digital, PR and marketing work for a
range of businesses including large
retailers, award-winning training firms
and market-leading industrial clients
including the Chamber of Commerce.
Since 2021 the agency’s award entry
writing support has helped businesses
achieve 30 award wins and 130 finalist
placings as part of strategies to gain
recognition for their achievements.
Osborn Communications director
Chris Leggett commented: “The
events will provide top tips on how to
summarise your business and its
achievements in an award entry.
“With a step-by-step guide, you can
identify the strengths required by the
judges and make sure you stand out
from the crowd, giving you the best
possible chance of success.”
Visit the events section of the Black
Country Chamber website for further
details on how to sign up to the
workshops. They are open to both
Chamber members and non-members.
Bookings for the June event will close
at 3pm on 17th June.
Register here
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 11

BLACK COUNTRY CHAMBER AWARDS
Awards categories
To get started on an award entry, register from 17th June at: www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/awards
You will need to answer a series of questions and supply some standard information. Your submission will
need to meet the award criteria for your selected category but do not worry about filling it all out at once.
You can save your progress and add your details up until the deadline in September.
Review the criteria then get your entry together to be part of the awards celebrations.
BUSINESS IN THE COMMUNITY
In partnership with Halesowen College
This award is for the business which
demonstrates a significant and positive
commitment in the community: tackling
pressing social issues with a clear
understanding of the positive impact of
their actions. Entries will outline key facts
and impact figures to support their
submission.
EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
In partnership with Wolves Foundation
This recognises employers who excel in
developing their workforce and engage
employees in company values. Entrants
must detail successful plans to develop
employees and policies to promote
diversity and inclusion, as well as show
employee welfare and engagement.
INTERNATIONAL TRADE
In partnership with KMB Shipping
For businesses who excel as an exporter
or in assisting others to export. Working
to a strategic vision, you have developed
your markets and overcome issues such
as Brexit changes to build on our region’s
heritage of strong relationships with
international markets.
MANUFACTURING AND ENGINEERING
In partnership with CKCA Limited
For businesses of all sizes within the
manufacturing and engineering sectors.
Entrants must show their contribution
and advancement in their field, including
efforts to diversify your offering or engage
new markets.
SCIENCE, TECHNOLOGY AND
INNOVATION
In partnership with Forresters
The award to celebrate businesses
demonstrating exceptional
advancements in science, technology,
and innovation. You must demonstrate a
new approach to solving a problem, with
potential for scalability and future impact.
BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
(MORE THAN 10 EMPLOYEES)
Recognising a company with consistent
revenue growth and profitability, your
company will implement innovative
products, services or processes, while
generating high levels of employee
engagement, retention and positive
workplace culture.
SMALL BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
(1-9 EMPLOYEES)
In partnership with Six Wands
Accountants & Book Keepers
Honouring a small company with
consistent revenue growth and
profitability, your company will punch
above its weight with innovative
products, services or processes, while
creating employment opportunities in a
positive workplace culture.
START-UP OF THE YEAR
In partnership with Daniel-Scott
Recruitment
Open to businesses registered since
January 2023, your business will have
growing revenues and great customer
satisfaction. You may now employ
part-time or full-time workers who deliver
on your vision. You must show credible
plans for the next 12 months and beyond,
and traction gained in your sector.
FAMILY BUSINESS OF THE YEAR
In partnership with Azets
Celebrating the best, established family
business across any sector, you will need
to show how you work together to achieve
ambitions for growth. As well as strong
financial performance, you will deliver
against defined family values that shape
company culture, decision-making and
overall business operations.
YOUNG EMPLOYEE OR
APPRENTICE OF THE YEAR
In partnership with Sandwell College
Aged 25 or under and working in a Black
Country business, we are looking for a
young employee or apprentice who has
made a real impact on their place of
employment while building skills for life.
BUSINESS IN SCHOOLS AWARD
In partnership with the University of
Wolverhampton
This category is open to all businesses
regardless of size, sector or type, who
work with education partners and can
show a significant positive impact on
students, their school community and the
wider community.
CONSULTANCY AND PROFESSIONAL
SERVICES
In partnership with GTG Training Academy
& Conference Centre (West Midlands)
This award recognises a company that
has demonstrated exceptional
performance and impact in delivering
value to its customers, bringing
quantifiable improvement in client
performance. You will have testimonials,
long-term repeat business, a record in
innovation and can show the
development of a team achieving
sustainable and profitable growth.
NOT-FOR-PROFIT ORGANISATION
This award recognises an outstanding
non-profit organisation that can
demonstrate exceptional impact,
innovation and commitment to its
mission. Demonstrating a clear and
measurable mission aligned with a
specific social cause, you will show
success stories and quantitative data to
support claims of impact, plus sound
financial management and innovation.
APPRENTICE EMPLOYER OF THE YEAR
Recognising the commitment employers
undertake to train staff under a
recognised apprenticeship scheme,
entrants must have taken on apprentices
in the last three years. We want to hear
about your journey, the challenges and
how they were overcome to bring success
to your business while creating
demonstrable impact for the workforce of
the future.
12
PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Headline Partner: Sandwell Council
50 years on, Sandwell Council
is thinking big
Sandwell Council is proud to
support the Black Country
Chamber’s Business Awards 2024,
celebrating the best of the Black
Country’s business scene.
Sandwell Council is backing the awards
through to the dazzling celebration of those
shaping the region’s vibrant economic
landscape on 21st November, and is
encouraging companies to submit entries.
Chief executive Shokat Lal is looking
forward to hearing success stories from
across the region. He said: “It’s 50 years
since Sandwell’s formation in 1974. As
Sandwell Council celebrates this
milestone anniversary, we want to
champion the Black Country, celebrate
Sandwell’s place at its heart, and shine a
light on what we’re doing to boost our
business community in a way that raises
people and communities up too.
Sandwell Business Growth,
“Through Sandwell Business Growth,
our support platform for business, we are
promoting how, with a £6.5bn annual
economy and a young, diverse workforce,
Sandwell is the most productive borough
in the Black Country. This is a place
where everyone can realise their potential
– and we see thriving businesses as key
to us achieving that goal.
“We want to nurture local businesses
to create good jobs and opportunities.
We want to see companies growing and
entrepreneurs inspired to innovate.”
“We want to champion the Black Country, celebrate
Sandwell’s place at its heart, and shine a light on what we’re
doing to boost our business community in a way that raises
people and communities up, too...” Shokat Lal
Sandwell is a borough which is
physically changing to create a better
environment for businesses, says Shokat.
“Through our Regenerating Sandwell
programme we are supporting £3billion
of investment from sources including the
Towns Fund, Levelling Up and UKSPF
projects, with 69 projects planned and 14
completed. We are working to reduce
barriers to local businesses in tendering
for the many opportunities that stem
from such huge developments.
“Engaging with the Sandwell Business
Ambassadors is a big part of that
process. They are a diverse cross-section
of local business leaders, working
together to support the growth of our
economy. They act as a critical ‘friend’ to
make the council aware of what local
businesses truly need.
“Our Sandwell Business Growth team
is also ready to support businesses at
every stage. “Start Up in Sandwell is for
new launches. We have a wonderful,
co-working environment in Oldbury – the
Sandwell Start-Up Hub – where
entrepreneurs can hot-desk, perfect their
business plans, network and learn.
“Grow in Sandwell supports scaling up,
Invest in Sandwell gives a range of
support for outward and inward
investment, while Innovate in Sandwell
offers services for companies breaking
new ground.
“The Business Growth team
encourages businesses to give back to
the community through Social Value in
Sandwell. It’s important that the projects
we invest in have a wider positive social
and environmental impact.
“Meanwhile, Net Zero in Sandwell gives
firms practical help to cut their environmental
footprint for future generations. We
flag up grant opportunities and learning
programmes, and hold learning sessions to
help businesses take their next steps
towards becoming carbon neutral.”
Sandwell Council has ambitious aims
and recognises the importance of
working with the Black Country Chamber
to achieve them.
Shokat said: “The Chamber’s ethos of
supporting businesses to benefit the
wider community aligns well with our own.
Plus, the Chamber stages the annual
awards as part of its drive to provide
platforms and opportunities for
businesses looking to grow, connect and
become part of a thriving network, which
match our own ambitions.
“We are looking to see success stories
from amazing small businesses who are
innovating and making an impact with
their work.
“We are keen to see how much social
value you add to the community and the
impact of any corporate social
responsibility work you undertake across
the Black Country.
“We know companies large and small
do great work in their communities by
giving time and support to the region, so
we look forward to celebrating their
efforts this year with the Chamber.”
You can find out more
about Sandwell
Business Growth here
13

BLACK COUNTRY CHAMBER AWARD PARTNERS
Small Business of the Year: (1-9 employees)
In partnership with 6 Wands
Accountants & Bookkeepers
Small businesses with passion and
belief are sought by the category
partner for this year’s Chamber of
Commerce award for companies with
between one and nine employees.
Established in 2017, category partner
6 Wands Accountants & Bookkeepers
is an Association of Accounting
Technicians licensed accountant
practice based in Halesowen, with six
experienced staff.
As well as offering accountancy and
bookkeeping tax compliance services,
6 Wands offers a range of business
support services which add value to a
growing company, not just ‘once a year’
for the annual returns. By providing
mentoring for everyday queries and
business planning, each client has
tailored support for their needs.
To win the small business category
for 2024, your company will punch
above its weight with innovative
products, services or processes, while
creating employment opportunities in
a positive workplace culture. It will also
honour a small company with consistent
revenue growth and profitability.
With sound financial management
you will be delivering against a strategic
plan to generate further success.
6 Wands director and practice
founder Nicola Price said: “We are
looking forward to hearing about
people with a passion and a belief in
what they are achieving, who are
drawing upon expertise to grow and
nurture their business.
“My passion is for SMEs as I want to
see businesses succeed when they
start up and grow.
“Some people can be unprepared for
the challenges they face in bbusiness,
which is where I can help advise and
guide them.”
Having launched her business
following an extensive career in
manufacturing, Nicola is pleased to
align the 6 Wands brand with Black
Country Chamber of Commerce.
Nicola said: “I value being part of the
Chamber as it offers opportunities for
networking, where relationships can be
built with like-minded people running
businesses in the region.
“I have been on one of the
Chamber’s leadership and growth
programmes in the past as a company
director, and benefitted from the
experience. It is important that small
business owners do not feel alone so
the Chamber is great for helping pull
people together.”
Consultancy & Professional Services
In partnership with
GTG West Midlands
The category partner for this year’s
Chamber of Commerce Consultancy &
Professional Services award is looking
forward to reviewing entries from
organisations demonstrating
exceptional impact, innovation and
commitment to their mission.
Based in Bearing Drive, Willenhall,
category partner GTG West Midlands
delivers training courses and
apprenticeships in a number of sectors
including transport, automotive technical
and health and safety.
Its cutting-edge venue for training
courses, meetings, conferences and
events is split into two dedicated
sections. The fully operational transport
division caters for all aspects of
automotive and transport training, while
the business section offers a wide range
of courses from business skills, computer
and IT to health and safety. GTG’s
Willenhall base also offers a 250-seat
conference suite and nine meeting rooms.
The Chamber’s Consultancy &
Professional Services award recognises a
company that has demonstrated
exceptional performance and impact in
delivering value to its customers, bringing
quantifiable improvement in client
performance.
You will have testimonials, long-term
repeat business, a record in innovation
and can show the development of a team
achieving sustainable and profitable
growth.
Dominic Murphy, Business Centre
Manager at GTG, said: “GTG West
Midlands is proud of our connections
with the local business community so we
are pleased to align ourselves with the
Black Country Chamber by becoming
category partner for this prestigious award.
“We engage with the full range of
businesses and organisations, so we are
looking forward to seeing a variety of
entries submitted.
“We hope to read success stories from
VoID Applications were winners in the
Excellence in Professional Services
category at last year’s awards
organisations who have made a positive
impact and are able to demonstrate how
they have broken new ground through
innovation.
“GTG has been giving people the skills
to succeed for more than 40 years. We
are delighted to be partnering with the
Chamber on the Consultancy &
Professional Services category.”
14 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Young Employee or Apprentice of the Year
In partnership with
Sandwell College
The Young Employee or Apprentice of
the Year Award is in partnership with
Sandwell College.
The category is open to those aged 25
or under working in a Black Country
business who can demonstrate how an
apprenticeship has boosted their career.
Judges will want to hear how the young
person or apprentice has made an impact
at work while building skills for life.
Sandwell College Assistant Director of
External Engagement, Jessica Lewis
commented: “As a careers college that
focuses on helping people take their first
step in their career journey, partnering
with the Chamber on the Young Employee
or Apprentice of the Year Award made
perfect sense.
“Sandwell College is dedicated to
supporting students to ensure that they
are equipped for the world of work. We
see the hard work young people put in
every day and want to recognise that.
“We are keen to see success stories
and hear from individuals who have been
on a personal journey. We all face life’s
challenges, and we look forward to seeing
how they have adapted, faced adversity,
and are thriving in the world of work.”
International Trade
In partnership with
KMB Shipping Group
The International Trade award is in
partnership with the Queen’s Awardwinning
KMB Shipping Group.
The category is for businesses of all
sizes and sectors that excel as
exporters or in assisting others to
export goods overseas.
Working to a strategic vision, entrants
will have developed their markets and
overcome issues such as Brexit to build
on this region’s heritage of strong
relationships with international partners.
KMB Shipping Group Director Paul
Hull said: “We wanted to partner with
the Chamber on the Business Awards
to help raise our profile and grow our
brand, but also to show further our
commitment to supporting the
Jessica added: “Young people can
have a huge impact on a business, they
are our workforce of the future and the
positive impact they make is a great
story to tell.
“We want to hear about your
inspirational young people who are
ambassadors for apprenticeships and
flying the flag going forward.”
On partnering with the Chamber, she
said: “This award allows us to raise our
profile as well as celebrate the hard
work and determination of young
people. Businesses play a vital role in
providing employability opportunities for
young people. Apprenticeships,
employability workshops or work
experience, whatever time you can spare,
big or small, I would encourage you to
pledge your support.
“Through our new campaign Pledge2
Invest, local businesses can invest in the
future of their workforce and promote
careers within their industry.”
Sandwell College is the largest provider
of 16-19 study programmes in the West
Midlands and is committed to ensuring
that every young person has the
opportunity to reach their full potential.
Chamber’s work across the Black
Country. The International Trade
category at the awards is a very
important one to us.
“We are here to support Black
Country businesses with their shipping
and transport requirements and help fly
the flag for them internationally, as we
have for so many amazing local
companies who are exporting their
goods worldwide.
“Exporting since Brexit has become
more difficult, but here at KMB we take
away that pain with our amazing
customs and operational team.
“We look forward to celebrating
organisations with inspirational stories
Sandwell College was a winner last year,
taking the Chamber award for Excellence
in Science, Technology and Innovation
The college supports learners in
developing their academic, personal, and
social skills so they are fully equipped for
future progression to higher education,
apprenticeships, or employment.
The college also operates a specialist
employer-focused division called
Tomorrow’s People which provides
access to recruitment services for
employers, vacancy matching, and
business-focused education and training.
of growth, development and
overcoming challenges.”
Based in Tipton, the KMB Shipping
Group is a global logistics firm that has
proudly developed a reputation for
professional, efficient and friendly
shipping services.
The company has more than 30 years
of experience in importing and
exporting, with established and
extensive networks of agents, shipping
lines and airlines. Its global logistics
services facilitate thousands of imports
and exports each year for businesses
throughout the world.
KMB Shipping’s quality service and
dedication to excellence has seen the
business win a series of awards in
recent years, including the prestigious
Queen’s Award for Enterprise in
International Trade.
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 15

BLACK COUNTRY CHAMBER AWARD PARTNERS
Science, Technology and Innovation Award
In partnership
with Forresters
The Science, Technology and Innovation
Award is in partnership with Forresters,
which wants to meet businesses who are
using science and technology for good.
The category is looking to celebrate
businesses of any size or sector who can
demonstrate exceptional advancements
in science, technology, and innovation.
Entrants must show a new approach to
solving a problem, with potential for
scalability and future impact. Judges will
want to see evidence of market adoption
and customer satisfaction.
Chartered UK and European Patent
Attorney for Forresters, Emma Johnson
said: “Forresters has been a member of
the Black Country Chamber for many
years, and has partnered with the
Chamber on award categories before.
“We enjoy meeting the finalists and
finding out more about their businesses.
We also think it is important to support
local businesses, and the Chamber, and
partnering with it on an award category is
one way that we can do this.
“As patent attorneys, each of us has a
background in science or engineering, so
we have an interest in organisations that
are involved in science and technology,
and the problems they are solving.
“Innovation is at the heart of what we
do at Forresters, helping businesses and
individuals to protect their intellectual
property. This category is a perfect fit.
“We are hoping to see organisations
that value, and are investing in, science,
technology and innovation.
“It would also be great to see diversity
among the types of businesses
nominating themselves in this category,
and businesses who are using science,
technology and innovation for good.”
Celebrating 140 years in business,
Forresters are patent and trademark
attorneys, providing clear, sensible, and
practical advice on protecting
technology, trademarks and designs
across the UK and worldwide.
Business in the Community
In partnership with
Halesowen College
The Business in the Community
Award is in partnership with
Halesowen College, which is looking
for companies who reflect the
excellence and dedication present in
the local business community.
This award looks to shine a light on
businesses who can demonstrate a
significant and positive commitment to
the community. Judges will be looking
for entries which have tackled pressing
social issues and can provide a clear
understanding of the positive impact
their actions have had.
John Murray, Director of Operations
& Stakeholder Engagement at
Halesowen College, commented: “We
have a great relationship with the
Chamber so deciding to be part of the
awards was an easy one for us to make.
It was an excellent event last year.
“At the awards it is wonderful to see
businesses being recognised for their
efforts in addressing equally important
social issues and making a tangible
difference within the community.
“We look forward to recognising and
celebrating businesses who have
worked hard, so that we can work
towards higher standards and foster a
culture of excellence and innovation.”
He added: “Halesowen College is a
cornerstone of the community, and we
aim to engage positively with it to
address issues around skills gaps and
education solutions.
“As a college, we are committed to
developing the local skill set and
working further with the Chamber. Our
engagement with local employers and
stakeholders is crucial in bridging the
skills gap and understanding the skill
requirements needed for our
community to thrive and have a
positive impact on the wider area.
“We hope that all nominees and
award winners use the event as a
platform to further their success within
their business area.”
Halesowen College is a lively,
ambitious, and highly inclusive tertiary
college providing broad and supportive
education and skills development to
young people and adults from across
the Black Country and Birmingham.
The college aims to have a positive
impact on lives, through the delivery of
high-quality education, training, and
development of skills to all learners,
the college ensure that all students
learn, flourish, and succeed.
16 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Manufacturing and Engineering
In partnership with
CKCA Limited
The Manufacturing and Engineering
award is in partnership with West
Midlands accountancy firm CKCA
Limited.
The category is for businesses of all
sizes within the manufacturing and
engineering sectors. Entrants must
show their contribution and
advancement in their field,
including efforts to diversify their
offering or engage new markets,
particularly around meeting the
challenges of inflation and increases in
raw material prices.
CKCA Corporate Partner Alex Boulter
said: “The Black Country Chamber
Business Awards are a celebration of
the fantastic businesses from across
the region and CK are proud to be a
part of it.
“We are honoured to work with so
many amazing businesses across the
Black Country, and it is important that
their achievements are celebrated.
“CK works with a large number of
manufacturing and engineering
companies, and as in previous years
when partnering with the Chamber on
this category, it is fascinating hearing
the innovative and inspiring activities of
companies across the region.
“I am looking forward to hearing how
businesses are facing the challenges of
inflation and rising prices, whilst at the
same time widening their reach.”
CK is a West Midlands accountancy
firm that has Black Country roots
dating back to 1884 when Mr Clement
Keys set up his first office. Whether
clients turn to CK for advice on
“
We are honoured to work with
so many amazing businesses
across the Black Country...
it is important that their
achievements are celebrated.
“
personal tax affairs or ongoing business
audit and accounting needs, they can
always expect a personable service.
CK’s approach ensures people are at
the heart of everything it does. The
company aims to make sure its clients
work with the same advisers and
partners throughout their relationship
with the firm so that they can rely on
people they know and trust every time.
At CK the team really get to know
their clients. They build a deep
understanding of the challenges and
opportunities which come their way.
This means they can offer proactive
advice to help them face the future with
confidence.
Employer of the Year
In partnership with the
Wolves Foundation
The Employer of the Year
Award is in partnership
with Wolves Foundation,
which is looking to thank
Black Country businesses
going the extra mile.
This award will shine a light on
employers who invest in employee
development and strong company values,
as well as those who demonstrate
employee programmes and policies to
The Wolves Foundation won the Business in
the Community Award last year
promote diversity and inclusion.
Wolves Foundation Business
Development Manager, Kieron Ansell
said: “As a recipient of the Business in the
Community Award last year we know that
there are some really great businesses in
the region, and we want to be able to give
thanks and praise to those who are going
the extra mile across the Black Country.
“A key area of our operation is supporting
young people in employability, to help
them become strong employees for
businesses across the region. We hope to
see some shining examples of companies
where responsible business is at their
core and young people are given the
opportunity to learn and progress.
“We are keen to see entrants who are
socially conscious and aware and
demonstrating how they live their values.”
The official charity of Wolverhampton
Wanderers, the Wolves Foundation
educates and inspires local people and
communities, creating opportunities and
changing lives.
Its team of highly skilled staff and
volunteers work in partnership with key
local stakeholders to address three key
objectives: healthier, more active people,
lifelong learning and skills, and safer,
stronger communities.
In the last 12 months Wolves
Foundation has supported over 60,000
individuals across more than 200 sites.
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 17

BLACK COUNTRY CHAMBER AWARD PARTNERS
Family Business of the Year
In partnership with Azets
The Family Business of the Year Award
is in partnership with Azets, which is
looking for family businesses who are
flying the flag for the region.
The category is open to all family
businesses across any sector who can
demonstrate how they work together
to achieve ambitions for growth.
In addition to a strong financial
performance, entrants will show how
their clearly defined vision and values
shape company culture, decision making
and overall business operations.
Partner at Azets, Lee Meredith said:
“We have partnered with the
Chamber’s Awards for a number of
years now and it’s great to see the
spotlight shone on the businesses and
individuals who are driving growth and
innovation across the region.
“At Azets we feel very passionately
about the local business community
and these awards are a great
opportunity to champion companies,
organisations, and individuals across
the Black Country.
“The awards category aligns with our
client base and company values. Our
purpose is our driving force – to
improve the lives of our colleagues, our
clients and our communities in a
sustainable way.
“The vast majority of our 120,000
clients are SMEs or owner-managed
businesses, with a large majority of
those being family owned. We are able
to offer multiple service line, all round
advice to our client base.
“We are keen to see businesses from
the Black Country that have grown
organically, actively promoting, and
flying the flag for the region.”
Azets is the UK’s largest regional
accounting firm and specialist
business advisor to SMEs.
With over 7,500 people across its
Burke Bros was the
Chamber’s Family
Business of the Year
in 2023
global office network, Azets are people
driven, delivering a range of
accounting, tax, audit, advisory and
business services to help people and
organisations save time, work smart
and achieve their goals.
Start-Up Business of the Year
In partnership with
Daniel-Scott Recruitment
The winner of the Start-up Award in
2023 is looking forward to handing the
trophy to this year’s winner, having taken
up the category partnership.
Established in 2020, with combined
experience of over 30 years, Daniel-Scott
Recruitment offers bespoke personal
and professional employment services
for the Black Country and beyond.
Director and founder Lucy Cashmore
was delighted to see the firm’s progress
recognised when they won the Chamber
award in November.
This time around, Lucy is ready to meet
the region’s best new businesses as part
of the judging process, before presenting
the award to the winner on the night.
Open to businesses registered since
January 2023, the category is for firms
which have made a positive impact growing
revenues and customer satisfaction.
Your company may now employ part
time or full time workers who deliver on
the vision for your start-up. Already
gaining traction in either the private or
public sector, you must show credible
plans for the next 12 months and beyond.
Lucy, who leads the team at the Black
Country-based firm, can vouch for the
impact generated by winning the award.
She said: “We decided to partner with
the Chamber on the start-up category
because we believe in supporting
innovation and emerging entrepreneurs.
“We won this category last year and we
feel by partnering this time we are
‘handing over the baton’ to the next
successful start-up business.
“Partnering with the Chamber on the
awards demonstrates our commitment to
supporting local businesses and to
supporting the growth of other new
business leaders. Ultimately they are the
driving force behind economic
development and vitality for the region.
“Last year the award partner believed
in us, and the business that we have
gained from winning this category has
Daniel-Scott
Recruitment was
our Start-up
winner last year
been tremendous, so it’s important for us
to work together and support other new
businesses as they start their journey.”
Companies looking to enter should be
making an impact across the board, said
Lucy. She said: “We are hoping to see
innovative ideas, strong market potential, a
sustainable business model and impactful
contributions to the local economy.”
18 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Business in Schools Award
In partnership with the
University of Wolverhampton
The Business in Schools Award is in
partnership with the University of
Wolverhampton, which is looking for
inspirational businesses that collaborate
with educational institutions.
The category is open to all businesses,
regardless of size, sector or type, that
work with education partners and can
show a significant positive impact on
students, their school community and
the wider community.
Entrants will show how they enthuse
pupils, and be able to document other
achievements through case studies,
data, media coverage or other evidence.
Director of the University of
Wolverhampton Business School, Vikki
Potts, said: “We have a history of
working closely with the Black Country
Chamber Business Awards and it is a
privilege to be partnering on an award
that recognises the value of bringing
business and education together.
“The University contributes to
economic growth regionally and
nationally by creating opportunities and
connections for our students and
employability is core to the ethos of the
University’s learning and teaching.
“We are proud of our strong industry
connections and we provide
opportunities for our students to
experience professional practice and
work on subject-specific live briefs led
by external clients and organisations.
“In addition, we provide opportunities
to undertake professional placements
and engage with interdisciplinary
collaborative practice.
“As one of the region’s leading
business schools, we are looking forward
to celebrating organisations that
support local schools, colleges and
universities and we are hoping to see
entrants demonstrating strong evidence
of the positive impact of their
collaborations.”
Over 21,000 students study at three
main teaching campusesbased across
in the Midlands.
Partners nationwide benefit from
innovative and excellent teaching from a
QAA-commended university listed in the
top ten universities for social mobility
according to the Higher Education Policy
Institute, with world-class research and
a 90% graduate employability rate.
Promote your business
as an awards partner
Businesses and organisations can still
enjoy the benefits of partnering with
the Chamber of Commerce for this
year’s Business Awards.
Organisations can choose to partner
on an individual award category or take
up one of a number of packages to
support the event overall.
Partners will benefit from extensive
promotional coverage before and after
the event, as well as branding at the
awards ceremony itself, ensuring
maximum visibility for their businesses.
Benefits for category partners
include a table for 10 on the awards
evening, a feature in the next Prosper
magazine, due out in September, social
media promotion and two invitations to
a winners’ lunch.
Black Country Chamber of
Commerce CEO Sarah Moorhouse
said: “We are excited to
continue to offer
businesses the chance
to align their brands
with the very best of the
Black Country’s
business scene by
partnering with us on
our awards.
“Organisations can
gain access to a range of profile-raising
opportunities across some of the
largest business-to-business platforms
and outlets in the region while
demonstrating their commitment to
supporting businesses in the Black
Country.
“As well as helping companies to
boost their brand image and reputation,
partnering with us on the awards is a
fantastic opportunity to network with
More information on partnership packages is available at
www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/partner
Organisations interested in becoming a partner should call the Chamber
on 0330 024 0820 or email here.
The School of Coding were winners in 2023, pictured
here with award partner the University of Wolverhampton
high-profile influencers, decisionmakers
and potential customers.”
Winners from last year’s awards have
spoken about the benefits of landing a
top prize. Chris Carter, managing
director of Wolverhampton-based
digital agency VOiD Applications, says
winning the Excellence in Professional
Services raised his business’s profile
and reinforced its professional image.
“We promote the award regularly and
cite it in every tender we put together
to win new business. It gives potential
customers more confidence in our
company when they can see that our
accomplishments have received
recognition from the Chamber.”
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 19

MEMBERS’ NEWS
Sustainable skills training
on offer at college
Chamber Patron Walsall College has
welcomed local employers, partners
and special guests to celebrate its
new-look campus for construction
skills and green courses.
The Green Lane Campus, officially
opened by then Mayor Andy Street, will
support businesses looking to train their
workforces for the transition to Net Zero.
Jatinder Sharma, CBE DL, Principal
and Chief Executive, as well as a
Chamber board member, said: “This is a
twofold investment in our college estate
and will accelerate our work to plug
existing construction skills gaps and build
skills for a green future.
“It enhances our support for
current and prospective learners,
while being a key enabler for
businesses to develop existing
and new job roles and thrive in a
net zero climate.”
With an estimated extra 25,350
construction workers needed in
the West Midlands by 2027, the college is
primed to play a pivotal role in meeting
demand with tailored training for school
leavers, jobseekers, apprentices and
work-based learners.
A three-floor extension to the campus
has added workshop space, classrooms
and sustainability-led facilities in the
fields of gas and plumbing, electrical
installation and carpentry.
A training provision aligned to these will
also help futureproof workforces
preparing to deliver services relating to
domestic retrofit, heat pump systems,
electrical energy storage systems and
electric vehicle maintenance.
Funding boosts
university degree
apprenticeship
The University of Wolverhampton has
been allocated £722,578 by the Office for
Students (OfS) to support growth of both
new and existing degree apprenticeships.
The funding will also allow it to
collaborate with the Aspire to HE/
UniConnect team in working with local
communities, schools, colleges and
employers to widen participation and
increase awareness of the degree
apprenticeship route.
Professor Ebrahim Adia, Vice-Chancellor
at the University, said: “We are proud of
the contribution our apprentices make to
this region, and the funding will ensure
we continue to support the development
of the regional and national workforce.”
Three new degree apprenticeship
frameworks are being worked on, in
children’s nursing, podiatry and
paramedic.
John Blake at the OfS, said: “We were
looking for universities and colleges to
not only describe how OfS funding would
expand their degree apprenticeships
student numbers and course provision,
but also to demonstrate how they would
prioritise recruiting and supporting
students from all backgrounds.
“I’m pleased to say that the University
of Wolverhampton’s successful bid rose
to this challenge.”
Transatlantic deal puts alloy wire
manufacturer in good shape
The UK’s leading manufacturer of round,
flat and profile wire has landed one of its
largest ever export orders.
Alloy Wire International (AWI), which
has its West Midlands base at Hurst
Business Park, Brierley Hill, sealed a
$400,000 contract with a US
springmaker to supply a high strength
nickel cobalt alloy.
The material will be used in an
aerospace application that requires heat
and corrosion resistance, with the
company chosen for its world-class
quality and the ability to process the
order in just a matter of weeks.
Tom Mander, Managing Director of
Alloy Wire International, said the team
were delighted with the order: “It
illustrates how UK manufacturers can
remain competitive through investment
in the latest technology and a
commitment to work with our customers
to deliver exceptional technical advice
and access to significant amounts of
stock at short notice.”
He continued: “The US order really
does typify what AWI is all about. We
received the enquiry about two months
ago, went back quickly with a quote,
agreed the deal, and processed the large
quantity and despatched it in a matter of
weeks.”
Alloy Wire International manufactures
“
This order illustrates how
UK manufacturers can remain
competitive through investment
in the latest technology and a
commitment to deliver
exceptional technical advice
“
round, flat and profile wire in 60 Exotic
alloys, such as Inconel, Monel, Hastelloy,
Nimonic and Waspaloy.
From its two factories in the West
Midlands and Yorkshire, the company
continues to be a critical supplier to the
UK manufacturing sector while also
growing its export business, which
currently accounts for nearly 55 per cent
of its £17.9m sales to 6,000 customers
across 50 countries and 15 market
sectors.
20 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Students in the driving seat
for race engineering
As the annual race season accelerates,
engineering students at the University
of Wolverhampton are driving
engineering innovation forward.
University of Wolverhampton Race
Team (UWR) students will race the Praga
R1 car in the Zeo Prototype Cup and the
Morgan Plus Four in the SW Motorsports
Clubsport Trophy, both part of the British
Racing and Sports Car Club.
Students are also preparing the
Formula Renault car as part of the
Formula Foundation team, giving
foundation year and first-time engineers a
platform from which to build their racing
knowledge, while the E-Sports Sim-Racing
team has created its own Twitch channel
to broadcast races live to fans and
sponsors.
UWR is celebrating 10 years of racing in
2024 as it launches Wolf RS, an innovative
project to use racing regulations to design
and build a racing car with the potential to
be brought to market. The project means
students learn some vital business
principles as well as engineering skills.
The team recently unveiled its new
Praga R1 livery, which displays the 32 team
sponsors that make UWR possible,
including title partner Highclear
Investments, senior partner Hadley Group
Leading water safety specialist Nant has
teamed up with risk management,
intelligence and transformation specialist
MoRServ to help the business stay at the
forefront of sector innovation and
achieve delivery excellence.
MoRServ has delivered a number of
workshops to help the business identify
key areas where it can improve operations.
and the team kit sponsor and
manufacturer, MyWorkWear.
The students, all of whom are studying
at the university for degrees in aerospace,
automotive, mechanical or motorsport
engineering in the department of
engineering at the University’s Telford
campus, spend the race season working
behind the scenes to test, engineer and
address any challenges presented on the
racetrack.
Platinum tie-up drives improvements
Experts from MoRServ conducted
thorough audits and risk assessments of
business strategies, technology,
processes, policies and procedures to
highlight areas for improvement.
Nant will now be working towards an
ongoing plan with clear priorities and
delivery strategies.
The two firms are Platinum Chamber
members and met through the group,
said Nant MD Carl Baker, adding: “At
Nant we are constantly reviewing and
innovating our processes and
technologies to provide the most
effective solutions to our clients’ water
safety concerns.
“We met MoRServ through the
Chamber, and its team has highlighted
some great opportunities for us to
improve that are already delivering
tangible results.”
Children in Need
cash boosts for
hospice’s services
BBC Children in Need paid a visit to
Compton Care to see how its funding
was impacting on its children and
young people’s services.
Over the last year Lusia Coombes,
Compton Care’s children and young
people’s support worker, has worked
with a team of volunteers to support
more than 100 children and young
people, as well as their families.
Helen Wilson, Impact Officer at
BBC Children in Need, visited
Compton’s Easter Egg Hunt event to
learn more about the impact the
funding has in the community.
She said: “It was great to see
first-hand the real difference Lusia
and the Children and Young People
Service are making, not only to the
children but in the support that they
offer the whole family.”
Lusia has delivered 42 one-to-one
sessions of emotional support with
children and young people both in
school and on site.
The team deliver monthly
workshops designed to support
emotional wellbeing, reduce feelings
of isolation and encourage children
and young people to build positive,
supportive peer relationships within a
caring and nurturing environment at a
very difficult time in their lives.
The workshops have included visits
from the ‘Animal man’, memory
making activities and wellbeing
sessions hosted by Compton’s own
complementary therapy team.
The team have also arranged family
picnics, days out and visits to the
theatre.
Pictured above is Compton Care’s
Lusia Coombes, Custard the Bear,
Helen Wilson from Children in Need
and Suzanne Davies.
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 21

MEMBERS’ NEWS
BCRS Business Loans grows to support
businesses with widened fund range
Loan provider BCRS Business Loans has
grown its team having secured three new
fund partnerships to support companies
looking to innovate and grow.
The Wolverhampton Science Parkbased
Platinum member has been named
as a delivery partner for funds totalling
£592m, £37m of which is now available to
SMEs in the West Midlands and Wales.
After supporting the first Community
Investment Enterprise Fund (CIEF), BCRS
is securing investment for businesses
through the new phase. The new CIEF
was launched in March and backed by
Lloyds Bank, the first mainstream lender
at scale to finance loans for Community
Development Finance Institutions
(CDFIs), including BCRS.
The new £62m CIEF offers investment
to businesses that are unable to access
finance from traditional sources. BCRS is
delivering £13m of the CIEF by providing
loans from between £25,000 and £150,000
to enable growth and recovery plans.
The launch of the new CIEF comes
after BCRS was appointed as a fund
manager for the new £130 million
Investment Fund for Wales in November,
and for the Midlands Engine Investment
Fund II, which will see BCRS deliver £14m
to businesses across the Midlands.
To oversee this funding BCRS has
appointed its first business development
managers for Wales, adding James
Pittendreigh, Niki Haggerty-James and
Graeme Lewis to the team. Mark Savill
has joined to support businesses across
Stoke-on-Trent and Staffordshire.
Since BCRS Business Loans was
founded in 2002, it has provided loans
worth more than £85 million to
businesses. A social impact report for the
last financial year showed BCRS lent
£6.5m to 72 businesses, safeguarding
999 jobs and creating 473 roles, adding
£33.7m in value to the economy of the
West Midlands and surrounding regions.
CEO Stephen Deakin said growing the
team would enable BCRS to support
more businesses. He said: “We are
pleased to be able to build on our positive
impact in delivering investment across
the West Midlands by now engaging with
businesses on the opportunities for
support from MEIF II and CIEF.
“It is exciting to be able to work in a
new region by delivering the Investment
Fund for Wales with our latest recruits,
each of whom brings a wealth of
experience and is enthusiastic about
helping SMEs to achieve their goals.”
Webinar to advise
on net zero
Platinum Chamber member Control
Energy Costs (CEC) is hosting a webinar
for businesses to navigate net zero to
reduce their environmental footprint.
CEC has teamed up with fellow
Chamber member Auditel to stage the
event on 26th June to help firms
overcome any hesitancy around making
smart decisions to cut their emissions.
Organisers say: “Embarking on a Net
Zero journey can be daunting but the
transition is no longer a choice but a
necessity for businesses seeking to
thrive in the 21st century.
“By embracing sustainability as a core
business principle and seizing the
opportunities it presents, businesses can
pave the way towards a greener, more
resilient future for all.”
• Register here:
Workshops help build sustainable success
Law firm Freeths joined forces with
Howden Insurance to deliver two
workshops for Black Country Chamber of
Commerce premium members.
Futurist and growth expert Tom
Cheesewright shared the skills of
foresight that he teaches to leaders of
Global 500 companies around the world.
The first workshop covered foresight
and planning skills while the second
focused on storytelling for business
leaders.
Tom explained: “A vision of the future
has little value unless you can share it
and use it to drive change. Whoever the
audience, every leader needs to be able
to tell a clear story of tomorrow.”
Tom taught the group how to use a
simple framework for telling stories about
the future, whether for corporate strategy
or as the foundation of a marketing
campaign to engage with new customers,
helping them deliver long term
sustainable growth.
Nicola Dolman, Senior Business
Development Manager at Freeths, said:
“By partnering on these workshops, we
have been able to support the Chamber’s
members to take positive action to
future-proof their businesses.”
If you would like to attend a future
events, contact Gail Arnold at
gailarnold@blackcountrychamber.co.uk
22 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

MEMBERS’ NEWS
College appoints digital
expert as it plans
for innovation drive
Bronze member
Halesowen College
has appointed Richard
Johnson as innovation
consultant for digital
to support innovation
and technical
excellence within the
local community.
Richard will help local SMEs looking
to implement digital projects with free
audits, project advice and consultations
to improve their efficiency.
The new role has been developed
through Innovate UK and the Further
Education Innovation Fund, with funds
distributed to support local further
education colleges across the region.
The project will bring together five
Further Education colleges from across
the region to support SMEs to foster
innovation and make efficiencies.
Halesowen College will lead on digital
innovation, including cyber security,
e-commerce and AI, with other colleges
handling different aspects: they are
Dudley College, Walsall College, South
Staffordshire College, and City of
Wolverhampton College.
Richard said: “I am looking forward to
sharing my experience and extensive
knowledge in digital technology with
local and regional SMEs. The goal of
this project is to help businesses
develop innovative practices utilising
emerging technologies.”
On track to deliver
Gold member Pallet-Track will be
offering its services to ensure a logistics
deal between two north-west
companies comes off smoothly.
Venturepak, which supplies injectionmoulded
plastic containers and other
packaging products to the food
industry, has signed a deal with SSO
Logistics Ltd to make sure ice cream
containers for a household name brand
are delivered on time.
All shipments are transported
through the Wolverhampton-based
Pallet-Track network, where SSO works
with other independent haulage
companies to transport goods
nationwide in an efficient way.
Paycare builds on Wolves
Foundation partnership
Chamber Patron Paycare is marking its
150th anniversary in business by giving
back to those who make a real difference
across the city and the Black Country.
As part of its celebrations, it has
renewed its Pack Patronage with the
Wolves Foundation. The Foundation aims
to support project growth and create new
opportunities for those in the community,
and Paycare has supported it for the past
25 years. It was named as Honorary
Patron of the Foundation last year, and is
its longest-running supporter.
Paycare employees are also pledging
their support by taking part in various
fundraising activities during 2024,
including its Snowdon By Sunrise
challenge in June and the Club’s Molineux
Sleepout in November.
Some members of staff will also take
advantage of their MyGiving benefit,
provided by Paycare to its employees for
the purpose of volunteering, raising
funds, or offering support to local causes,
charities and initiatives.
“We’re delighted to be renewing our
long-standing Pack Patronage of Wolves
Further education colleges across the
Black Country are contributing to a new
one-stop-shop for employers and their
workforces as well as helping launch new
technology adoption centres.
Skills West Midlands and Warwickshire
(Skills WM+W) has been established
through the Local Skills and Improvement
Plan (LSIP) with funding from the
Department for Education’s Local Skills
and Improvement Fund (LSIF).
It promises to put employers at the
heart of the skills planning process, so
businesses have the people and skills
they need to innovate, grow and thrive.
City of Wolverhampton College, Dudley
College, Halesowen College and South
Staffordshire College are among the
colleges from across the area involved.
The Black Country Innovation Service,
led by Chamber Patron Walsall College,
will be a new anchor centre for
Foundation for another year,” said Sally
Bromley, Partnerships Manager at
Paycare. “The club’s official charity holds
dear in all our hearts and for so many of
our local policyholders too.”
Kieron Ansell, Business Development
Manager at the Wolves Foundation,
added: “Working with Paycare is a
privilege for myself and everyone at
Wolves Foundation. They are completely
aligned with our values and continuously
support us as we strive for better.
“We are delighted to be able to
continue our partnership with them.”
Black Country colleges join new
one-stop-shop for employers
manufacturing and
engineering
businesses to pivot
into sunrise
industries like
electric vehicles and
heat-pumps.
Jatinder Sharma
CBE, Principal and
Chief Executive at
Walsall College
(pictured) said: “This funding allows us to
engage with more employers, giving them
access to skills and development
resources in new technologies such as
solar panel and photovoltaic systems,
electric vehicle charging and air source
heat pumps.
“It will also encourage further
innovation and growth within the
renewable energy and advanced
manufacturing sectors.”
24 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Photo Credit: Rugby Black List
EBC Group proudly sponsors
the Rugby Black List event
EBC Group is delighted to announce our
sponsorship of the recent Rugby Black List
event, a significant celebration of black
achievement in rugby union at all levels.
This inspiring initiative is dedicated to
recognizing and highlighting the contributions
of black players, coaches, volunteers, and stakeholders within the
rugby community.
ABOUT THE RUGBY BLACK LIST
The Rugby Black List was founded by Sagan Daniels, who
initiated conversations in 2017 about the black experience in
rugby. These discussions gained substantial momentum during
the pandemic in 2020, as the black rugby community came
together through virtual calls and social media to share their
experiences. This collective effort led to the formation of the
Rugby Black List Steering Group in August 2022. Within just five
months, the group organised their first event.
EBC GROUP’S COMMITMENT TO DIVERSITY
At EBC Group, we believe in the power of diversity and the
importance of recognising and celebrating achievements across
all communities. Our sponsorship of the Rugby Black List reflects
our commitment to fostering inclusivity and supporting
initiatives that make a meaningful impact. We are honoured to
be part of an event that not only celebrates excellence but also
inspires future generations to pursue their dreams.
The Rugby Black List event aligns perfectly with our values at EBC
Group. We are dedicated to creating an environment where
everyone, regardless of their background, has the opportunity to
succeed. Supporting the Rugby Black List allows us to contribute
to a cause that champions these same principles within the
rugby community.
LOOKING AHEAD
As we look back to the 2024 Rugby Black List Awards, we are
excited about the future and the continued recognition of black
excellence in rugby. We are committed to supporting this vibrant
community and helping to build a more inclusive and diverse
rugby environment.
Thank you to everyone who attended and supported the Rugby
Black List event. Your presence and enthusiasm made it a night to
remember.
At EBC Group, we are proud to stand alongside the Rugby Black
List in celebrating the extraordinary contributions of the black
rugby community.
As a leading IT solutions company and an integrated Managed Service Provider, at EBC Group,
we offer customised IT solutions to suit the needs of companies of all scales and sizes.
Our team of technology experts offer a range of bespoke business IT solutions, including:
IT & Telephony | Cyber security | Cloud Solutions | Managed IT
Find out more at www.ebcgroup.co.uk, by calling 0121 368 0154
or email EBC Group at: hello@ebcgroup.co.uk
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 25

MEMBERS’ NEWS
University Vice-Chancellor
outlines decade-long vision
New MD appointed by
recruitment specialists
Chamber Patron Starting Point
Recruitment has appointed Andrew
Fernandez as its new managing
director.
With a strong background in
recruitment strategy and business
development, Andrew brings a fresh
perspective and innovative ideas to
his new role. He has extensive
experience in the fire and security,
mechanical, electrical, and plumbing,
construction and IT security sectors.
His track record of building and
developing high-performance teams
aligns perfectly with Starting Point
Recruitment’s commitment to
excellence and top-tier recruitment
services.
Andrew said: “I feel privileged to
have been entrusted with the
leadership of a highly capable team
known for consistently exceeding
our clients’ expectations.
“I look forward to moving us into
new sectors enabling Starting Point
Recruitment to solidify its position
as a leader in the recruitment
industry by continuing to address
our clients’ diverse recruitment
requirements.”
“We are delighted to have Andrew
Fernandez join us as our new
Managing Director,” said Paul
Cadman, Chief Executive Officer of
the Steps to Work group. “His proven
leadership abilities and dedication to
fostering a collaborative work
environment make him an ideal fit
for our team.”
Starting Point Recruitment has
established an admirable reputation
for assisting businesses from
start-ups to Blue Chips with their
recruitment needs.
Professor Ebrahim Adia, the University of
Wolverhampton’s Vice-Chancellor, has
outlined his plan for the future, setting
the ambition and trajectory up to 2035.
Prof Adia said the strategy “presents a
very clear vision for our university to
create opportunity, transform lives and
build a more inclusive, productive and
sustainable society”.
Prof Adia said: “Since I arrived at
Wolverhampton last autumn, I have been
determined that the university continues
to build on its rich heritage while also
looking ambitiously to the future.
“I have met hundreds of our students
and staff at the university as well as many
of our key partners across the city and
the wider Black Country region.
“It became clear in those meetings that
our overriding objective has to be to
make a positive difference for our
students and staff, for our city and region,
for the nation, and around the globe,
where our presence is growing.
“This strategy reaffirms our identity as
a civic institution, powered by our sense
of place in the heart of the city and region
and strengthened by our connections to
our communities.
“Three-quarters of our students live
within a 20-mile radius of the university
and 77 per cent of our graduates go on to
work in the West Midlands region after
completing their studies.
Chamber Platinum member Fortress
Safety has received the King’s Award for
Enterprise for International Trade in
recognition of its outstanding growth in
overseas sales.
Fortress Safety specialises in
machinery safety and interlocking, saving
lives by providing the best safety
solutions around the world.
“I am convinced that a strengthened
and successful university with a clarity of
purpose can be both cause and
consequence of a reinvigorated city and
region, delivering benefits to
communities and contributing to a highly
skilled workforce.”
He added: “We recognise that to
transform futures we must work
collaboratively with our partners. We look
forward to you joining us on our exciting
journey as we look to raise aspirations in
our communities and provide the widest
possible educational opportunities.”
Professor
Ebrahim
Adia:
Looking to
raise
aspirations
through
education
Fortress Safety wins King’s Award
Established in 1977, the company with
headquarters in Wolverhampton employs
141 people in the UK and over 250 in total
worldwide.
Pete Browitt, managing director at
Fortress Safety, said: “We are thrilled to
be the recipients of the prestigious King’s
Award for Enterprise.
“This recognition is a testament to the
remarkable growth of our company and
the significant increase in our overseas
sales, all of which has been made
possible by the relentless efforts of our
dedicated team and our global network of
partners.
“Receiving this award is a milestone
that reaffirms our belief in the work we do
and feeds our ambition to grow further.”
26 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

MEMBERS’ NEWS: BUSINESS RECOGNITION & APPOINTMENTS
JJX’s Mark Cartwright with
awards host Rob Beckett
JJX triumphs
at fleet awards
JJX Logistics won the Excellence in Fleet
Safety & Compliance award at the 2024
Fleet News Awards for its commitment to
the safety, regulatory compliance and the
security of their supply chain solutions.
Over 1,300 logistics and fleet
professionals attended the evening held
at London’s Grosvenor House Hotel.
Specialists in handling and transporting
all nine classes of UN-regulated
dangerous goods, safety and compliance
are at the forefront of Kingswinfordbased
JJX’s operations and continues to
be a main focus of improvement, which
resonated with the judges.
JJX also received the Highly
Commended plaque by the judges for
Fleet of the Year (Up to 250 vehicles).
Event celebrates 20 years
of Pallet-Track success
Pallet-Track has marked 20 years in
business with a gala awards event for the
nation’s leading hauliers and logistics
businesses, hosted by TV favourite and
BBC Radio 2 DJ, Vernon Kay.
Additional entertainment was provided
by comedian Rob Beckett, while a charity
raffle helped to raise a staggering £16,767
for Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.
Pallet-Track launched in 2004 with 46
members and handled 852 pallets during
its first night of operation. The firm now
moves over 16,000 pallets per night.
The evening recognised the success of
“
Pallet-Track is
going from strength
to strength, and we
look forward to
another successful
year ahead.
“
their pallet network. Pallet-Track Service
Quality Award went to Warley Carriers,
part of the TST Group Ltd, which has
depots in Birmingham and Northern
Ireland.
Platinum awards were given to 36
shareholder members to mark their
outstanding contribution to the network
over the last 20 years.
Stuart Godman, chief executive of
Pallet-Track, said: “It was an honour to
welcome guests to the Gala and
celebrate the collective achievements of
our network over the last 20 years.”
Appointments
Law firm expands commercial
real estate and property teams
Law firm Thursfields has recruited a team of commercial
real estate and property litigation specialists into its
Solihull office from Peterborough-headquartered
Buckles Solicitors.
Michelle O’Hara, Managing Director at Thursfields,
commented: “We are pleased to welcome these
colleagues to our firm. The team of seven brings a
wealth of experience that will complement our existing
services across the Midlands.
“The firm has a growing reputation for its commercial
services and dedication to client service. This is an
exciting development for Thursfields and demonstrates
our commitment to growth and excellence.”
Solicitors celebrate promotions
Four new partners and two associates have earned
promotions within FBC Manby Bowdler’s teams in
Redditch, Wolverhampton and Shrewsbury.
Wolverhampton-based Christopher Bate, Sharaz Khan
and Elisabeth Glover have become partners alongside
Claire Bentick from the Redditch office, while Megan Price
from the Shrewsbury office and Rajpreet Sangha in
Wolverhampton have been promoted to associate.
FBC Manby Bowdler’s managing partner Neil Lloyd said:
“As a firm, we are committed to supporting all of our staff
to be the best they can be, and I’m delighted that we have
been able to appoint four new partners and two associates.
“We have an established track record of appointing our
most senior staff from within our own ranks as we know we
develop the best people.”
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 27

MEMBERS IN THE COMMUNITY
Lord Combustion Services helps
keep vital blood service flowing
Commercial heating and ventilation
specialist Lord Combustion Services has
funded a new Toyota Yaris for Midlands
Air Ambulance Charity so it can continue
to receive blood and blood products for
its lifesaving service.
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity has
been carrying blood on-board its three
aircraft and fleet of critical care cars since
2017 to administer blood at the scene of
incidents. Previously volunteers
conveyed the blood but with this
transportation method no longer
available Platinum Chamber member
Lord Combustion Services stepped in.
The new Toyota Yaris will operate
alternate nights, conveying the blood
between the Blood Bank at the Queen
Elizabeth Hospital in Birmingham and
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity’s
Strensham airbase on the Worcestershire
/ Gloucestershire border.
Pam Hodgetts, corporate partnerships
manager for Midlands Air Ambulance
Charity, said: “We are truly grateful for
the volunteers who run the transport
service, and would like to give special
thanks to Lord Combustion Services for
this incredible level of support, which will
ultimately help save lives and keep
families together.”
Oldbury-based Lord Combustion
Services is a long-term supporter of
Midlands Air Ambulance Charity.
Stuart Smith, managing director
for Lord Combustion Services,
said: “The Midlands Air
Ambulance provides vital work
so we are pleased to help them
to deliver blood for their
life-saving services.”
Solicitors waive
will writing fee
for good cause
Enoch Evans Solicitors recently joined
forces with Walsall Healthcare’s charity
Well Wishers for its annual Make a Will
Fortnight campaign.
As part of this initiative, Enoch Evans
Solicitors waived its standard will
preparation fee in exchange for donations
to the charity, raising £1,225.
The initiative will contribute to
upgrading the chemotherapy unit at
Walsall Manor Hospital.
Georgie Westley, fundraising manager
at Walsall Healthcare NHS Trust,
expressed heartfelt gratitude for Enoch
Evans’ ongoing support and the success
of the Make a Will partnership.
The funds raised will significantly
improve the treatment room and
reception area of the chemotherapy unit,
benefiting both staff and patients.
SCP Group fund honours and
supports late colleague’s son
Dylan with SCP
Group’s Rikki Dale
SCP Group, a global pioneer in
construction product solutions, has
honoured the legacy of the late Nick
Flynn by initiating a financial recognition
programme for his children.
Nick’s invention of the Safelinx Board
Retainer system revolutionised safety in
construction, and his partnership with
SCP Group marked a turning point for
Safelinx, transforming its fortunes. Sadly,
Nick passed away in mid-2017, not fully
witnessing the fruits of his labour.
SCP Group vowed to ensure that Nick’s
children would benefit from their father’s
hard work and innovation. When Dylan
Flynn, Nick’s son, celebrated his 18th
birthday, SCP Group announced an
ongoing financial support programme for
him and his sister, honouring their
father’s legacy.
Dylan said: “To many people, a
seven-year-old promise doesn’t mean
much, but it shows the honour and
integrity of the group.”
Rikki Dale, SCP Group’s Financial
Director and co-founder Dale Ranjit’s
son, added: “It’s great to meet Dylan, and
I look forward to us potentially working
together in the future and being
successful, just like our parents.”
28 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Students gain employability skills from eco project
Young people from a special educational
needs school have gained valuable
employability skills thanks to a work
experience project supported by
business lender UKSE.
Twelve students aged between 16 and
18 from Abbey Hill Academy and College
in Stoke-on-Trent built up practical
employability skills through a project run
by environmental charity Groundwork
West Midlands and funded by UKSE.
The social impact funder, which works
with companies across the West
Midlands, has supported Groundwork to
help students regenerate an area at a
country park to develop skills through
hands-on work experience.
The students completed six sessions
at Silverdale Country Park, near
Newcastle-under-Lyme, where they took
part in a range of activities including
creating a home for birds, tree popping,
coppicing, fence building, pathway
repairs and the planting of 600 trees.
Providing strategic loan and equity
packages of up to £1m to generate
growth, create local job opportunities and
bolster the economy, UKSE’s local team
based in Cannock was recently set up to
support SMEs across Birmingham, the
Black Country, Coventry, Staffordshire
and Telford.
UKSE regional executive Mike Lowe
commented: “It has been great to see the
young people develop valuable life and
practical skills which will benefit them as
they embark on their future careers.”
Darren Greensmith, vocational
pathways manager at Abbey Hill Academy
and College, said the sessions had been a
great success, “and enabled us to develop
opportunities around employability that
will be important for their futures, and the
pupils built up their confidence and
developed new skills they would not have
got otherwise.”
Appointments
Promotions at Crowe
Ross Prince has been named as the new
Office Managing Partner for national
audit, tax, advisory and risk firm Crowe
in the Midlands and South West. He
takes over the role from Johnathan
Dudley, Crowe’s National Head of
Manufacturing.
He will lead a team of over 300
including 19 partners in the firm’s
Oldbury, Cheltenham and Bristol offices.
Ross Prince joined Crowe as a
graduate in 2002 and was appointed a
Partner in 2014.
Nigel Bostock, Chief Executive of
Crowe, said: “Johnathan Dudley has
done an outstanding job as Office
Managing Partner in the Midlands and
South West for over 30 years and will
continue to lead our SME Corporate
Business practice as well as our
sector-leading Manufacturing group.”
Crowe has also appointed Helen
Blundell as a partner in the firm’s social
Ross and
Helen
purpose and non-profit team.
She joins the partnership with more
than 20 years of experience and the
ICAEW Diploma in Charity Accounting
(DChA). She works closely with a diverse
range of clients from local charities to
organisations operating nationally and
internationally.
Helen’s advisory work has included
governance reviews, corporate
structures, and registration support
across a range of sub-sectors, including
faith-based groups, heritage charities,
health and welfare, education and art
organisations.
AIM trustee appointed
Deputy Lieutenant
Owen Everton Burke OBE DL FCFE
has been named as one of four
new Deputy Lieutenants (DL) for
the West Midlands.
Everton, a Fellow of the
Chartered Institution for Further
Education (FCFE), has worked in
the FE sector for almost 40 years,
championing the benefits of
education by guiding young people
on the path to adulthood and work.
He is currently Deputy Chair of the
Board of Trustees and
Executive Leadership
Team at AIM
Qualifications and
Assessment Group,
and was awarded
an OBE for his
services to
education.
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 29

CHAMBER NEWS
Chamber-led report calls for
‘ambition’ to drive regional growth
Complexity of support
system is risk to ambition
Black Country Chamber of Commerce
played a leading role in delivering a major
report by private sector firms in the West
Midlands calling for “a sense of urgency
and ambition” to maximise on growth
opportunities.
The final report from Business
Commission West Midlands (BCWM),
convened last year by the Greater
Birmingham, Coventry & Warwickshire and
Black Country Chambers of Commerce,
was published to bring together views on
the region’s business future.
Key Black Country Chamber members
joined CEO Sarah Moorhouse in
representing the views from the region in
the preparation of the report, which
contained three “golden threads” seen as
barriers or opportunities to drive growth.
The authors dubbed the public funded
business ecosystem as “too fragmented,
complex and ambiguous for businesses
to effectively navigate”.
The commissioners called for “greater
co-ordination between agencies and
authorities at regional level and enhanced
devolution offers a real opportunity to
shift the dial, create longer term, simpler
structures and support aligned to local
business needs.”
According to the report, businesses
“need to see a sense of urgency and
ambition. The issues outlined are already
hampering growth and risking the UK
falling behind in our international
competitiveness or missing opportunities
to lead the field in emerging industries.”
It added: “We need to create the
conditions for businesses to upscale and
grow at every stage of their journeys,
whether that is start-ups, scale ups or
existing large and multinational players.”
It was unveiled during a mayoral debate
at which the then mayoral candidates
Andy Street and Richard Parker went
head-to-head. Richard Parker went on to
win the vote on 2nd May.
The event gave the Conservative and
Labour candidates the chance to discuss
the report’s key themes, including more
than 90 recommendations from business
leaders and stakeholders.
From left, with the BCWM final report are Coventry Chamber CEO Corin Crane,
Andy Street, Birmingham Chamber CEO Henrietta Brealey, West Midlands Mayor
Richard Parker and Sarah Moorhouse, Black Country Chamber CEO
Sarah Moorhouse said she was
“delighted” with the final report from the
BCWM. “This in-depth report makes
some excellent recommendations for
how the region can pull together to
improve conditions for everyone. I am
confident that following the Mayoral
election the West Midlands region will
continue to thrive.”
BCWM comprised of a panel of 11
private-sector commissioners from a
“
The public-funded business
ecosystem is too fragmented,
complex and ambiguous for
businesses to navigate...
“
range of industries, supported by an
advisory panel of seven academic
experts. The commissioners included
Black Country representatives Vicki
Wilkes, director, Darvick Ltd, and
Jeanette McFarland, chief operating
officer, Assa Abloy Opening Solutions.
The final report followed an extensive
engagement and research programme in
which 432 businesses contributed
evidence to the commission, alongside
eight public sector and 10 membership
organisations or cluster groups.
BCWM was supported by sponsors
Aston University, Birmingham City
University, University of Birmingham,
University College Birmingham and
Douglas Wright t/a McDonald’s.
Mark Taylor, chair of BCWM and
outgoing regional managing partner at
business advisory firm RSM, said: “While
we recognise the importance of attracting
new businesses to the region, we also
need to have the right structures in place
across areas such as skills, employment,
land and technology in order to help our
existing businesses expand and grow.”
Key recommendations:
On Net Zero: Local and regional
authorities need to offer grant-funded
programmes to help with this transition
and allow businesses to explore
opportunities to diversify into new
products and services.
On innovation: Business investment in
the UK as a share of GDP has stagnated
since 2016. The Government needs to
make it easier for businesses to
commercialise ideas and scale up.
The WMCA must work with the British
Business Bank to set localised
investment targets so that SMEs can
access funding from the West Midlands
Co-Investment Fund and other groups.
On the built environment: The
shortage of employment land continues
to hinder growth prospects, particularly
in the manufacturing sector. WMCA must
work with metropolitan authorities in
creating spatial plans that can deliver
employment land sites and infrastructure.
30 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Chamber fundraising gets
behind twin good causes
The Chamber has announced YMCA
Black Country Group as its charity of the
year for 2024/25. The Chamber will be
fundraising for the local branch, which is
part of the largest youth organisation in
the world, as the YMCA marks its 180th
anniversary.
Working with children, young people
and their families, YMCA Black Country
Group aims to create thriving communities
through housing, childcare, health and
wellbeing initiatives, training and education.
Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse said:
“YMCA Black Country is an inspirational
charity that does important work in our
local community to support young people
and help change lives.
“Through our fundraising we hope to
raise awareness of its role and services.
We look forward to collaborating with the
YMCA team to make a difference to
Black Country Mental Health Chief
Executive Sandra Vaughan with the
Chamber’s Stephanie Sullivan
Black Country Chamber has welcomed
a proposed new direct rail service
connecting Walsall and
Wolverhampton with London.
The passenger service would run
direct trains from north Wales, calling
in at the Black Country on a route
between Wrexham General and
London Euston.
The new operation proposed by the
Wrexham, Shropshire and Midlands
Railway (WSMR) could see five trains
people in need across our region.”
Fundraising will take place at events
throughout the next 12 months, including
at its Business Awards.
YMCA Black Country Group CEO Steve
Bavington said: “We are thrilled to have
been chosen as the Chamber’s charity of
the year.
“All money raised will go towards
supporting young people across the Black
Country who need our help. We are very
excited about our partnership with the
Chamber and the possibilities for both of
our organisations.”
Dudley-based Black Country Mental
Health was the Chamber’s charity of the
year for 2023-24.
The charity, which works to improve,
promote and enhance a better quality of
life for people living across the Black
Country affected by poor mental health,
offers a range of services to help people
better manage and improve their mental
health and wellbeing, including online
support, training and activities.
Chamber Head of Marketing and
Communications Stephanie Sullivan said:
“We would like to say a big thank you to
all our members who supported
fundraising on behalf of Black Country
Mental Health.
“Mental health is a hugely important
part of all our lives and a cause close to
the hearts of many of our team here. The
charity offers a fantastic range of
invaluable services designed to help
Chamber welcomes proposal for
new direct London rail service
per day running in each direction from
Monday to Saturday, with four services
running in both directions on a Sunday.
The route would bypass Birmingham
by utilising a railway line only used for
freight services.
Black Country Chamber CEO Sarah
Moorhouse said: “These proposals will
be welcomed by regional businesses
looking for greater connectivity with the
capital, capitalising on the reopening of
the Walsall-Wolverhampton line.
BCCC Sales & Marketing Director
Sian Roberts with YMCA Black
Country Group CEO Steve Bavington
adults, young people and children.”
Black Country Mental Health Chief
Executive Sandra Vaughan said: “We are
very grateful to have been chosen as the
Chamber’s charity of the year for
2023/24.
“The money donated will help us raise
awareness of mental health issues and
extend our crucial support services.
Thank you to all who contributed.”
• More on YMCA Black Country on pg 42
“There is huge potential for areas of
Walsall and Darlaston, once its new
station opens, to benefit from a direct
link with the capital.
“I look forward to seeing the plans
develop.”
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 31

CHAMBER PATRONS
Region Chamber patrons enjoy gold
experience during Wolves visit
Patron members of Chambers of
Commerce based across the West
Midlands had a chance to go behind the
scenes at Wolves at an event organised
by Black Country Chamber.
The West Midlands Regional Chamber
Patron Event saw members of four
neighbouring Chambers visit Molineux
Stadium to network and tour the home of
Wolverhampton Wanderers FC.
More than 50 visitors with premium
membership of the Coventry &
Warwickshire, Hereford &
Worcestershire, Shropshire and
Staffordshire Chambers of Commerce
joined their Black Country Chamber of
Commerce counterparts to meet and go
on a tour led by Wolves staff.
The guests had the chance to trace the
Premier League club’s story from its
origins in 1877 to the modern Fosun era
with a guided visit of the Wolves Museum,
seeing up close the memorabilia and
history of the highs and the lows of
Wolverhampton Wanderers.
The visitors were then taken on the
Molineux Stadium Tour, with highlights
including a chance to look around the
first team changing room and the visitor
changing room as well as the opportunity
to walk through the player’s tunnel and a
chance to go pitch side.
The Patrons group visited the Directors’
box, the Chairman’s Lounge and even had
photos taken in manager Gary O’Neil’s
hot seat in the press conference room,
before enjoying a networking lunch.
Carl Jones, director of Shropshire
Business, a patron of Shropshire
Chamber of Commerce, was among
those to savour the experience. He said:
“It was superb to connect with fellow
Chamber members from across the
region at Molineux, which provided the
perfect setting to connect with
likeminded business colleagues and build
valuable links.
“Being a Chamber Patron member
opens doors to unique experiences like
this, so it was fantastic to be part of such
a supportive business event.”
Gail Arnold, Head of Premium
Membership at Black Country Chamber
of Commerce, who organised the event,
said: “Patron members benefit from
unrivalled opportunities to connect and
meet like-minded businesses, so the
Regional Chamber Patron Event is the
perfect opportunity to experience a
premium networking visit.”
CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “Many
thanks to our hosts at Wolves who
ensured our guests, even those who
support rival clubs, were able to have an
enjoyable time and see behind the
scenes of one of the Black Country’s
most famous brands.”
Find out more about the
Black Country Chamber Patron
packages by going to the
dedicated section of
the Chamber website:
Merry Hill and Walsall College renew patronage
Merry Hill and Walsall College have
both renewed their Black Country
Chamber Patron Group memberships.
Patron Group members are the
Chamber’s key strategic partners and
benefit from unrivalled opportunities
to promote their business, reach new
customers and make connections.
Merry Hill is one of the UK’s top ten
retail and leisure destinations. Its
General Manager, Jon Poole, said:
“Merry Hill is proud to renew its Patron
membership for the third year in a row.
“Through it we have forged strong
links in the West Midlands and enjoy
collaborating closely with other
Chamber members.”
Walsall College is one of the most
successful colleges in the country,
offering vocational technical
qualifications, apprenticeships and
higher education programmes to more
than 11,000 people each year.
Walsall College Assistant Principal
James Norris said: “As a patron, we
have been able to work closely with
employers to understand their
challenges and the skills needed in
their future workforces.
“This has played a key role in helping
us to develop the courses and training
solutions that will provide them with
skilled employees of the future.”
Gail Arnold said: “It’s an honour to
work with the teams at Merry Hill and
Walsall College. Our patron members
are vital in helping us understand the
issues the region faces and influence
the decisions that affect it.”
32 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

CHAMBER PLATINUM MEMBERS
Above, Platinum Group leader Gail Arnold welcomes (from left)
Davie Carns, National Infrastructure Solutions; Matt Weston,
Vantage 365; and Meg and Chris Dowen from MoRServ
New members sign up to Platinum group
The Chamber has welcomed a varied
mix of businesses to its Platinum Group
during the first half of the year.
Platinum membership provides an
exclusive platform for business leaders
and senior-level representatives to come
together to tackle challenges that impact
their organisation and explore opportunities
to improve the region’s prospects.
Among those to join the group is
training provider National Infrastructure
Solutions, based in Wolverhampton,
which works with clients in the rail,
construction and road sectors.
Managing Director Davie Carns said:
“We look forward to connecting with
other businesses and organisations
across the region through our Platinum
Group membership.
“We believe that collaboration is key to
maximising opportunities and hope to
make the most of it by learning from
other Chamber members and sharing our
expertise in training to help support other
West Midlands businesses.”
The company, which offers more than
200 industry-recognised courses in
SSSTS, Health & Safety, NEBOSH,
CPCS, SkillStation, Workplace Safety,
Working At Height, Rail and E-Learning,
signed up after being recommended to
do so by fellow Platinum member
BlackRook Academy.
Geldbach UK Ltd, a leading
stockholder and distributor of carbon
steel and alloy pipe, flanges and fittings,
has also taken up Platinum membership.
Geldbach UK, which operates from a
warehouse in Oldbury, supplies the UK
and international markets with a range of
high-quality products and is a leading
supplier to the UK’s oil, gas and
shipbuilding industries.
Geldbach UK Managing Director John
Lismore said: “We are excited to become
a part of the Platinum Group, having been
recommended to do so by Paul Hull from
KMB Shipping Group.
“The Platinum Group will provide us
with great opportunities for collaboration
and learning, and we look forward to
building new connections with organisations
from across a wide range of sectors.”
Leading risk management and
intelligence specialists MoRServ has
upgraded to Platinum membership.
MoRServ provides bespoke risk
management and intelligence services
for clients including large international
and national organisations, local
authorities, and community groups.
“
The Platinum Group will
provide us with great
opportunities for collaboration
and learning across sectors...
“
MoRServ Director Chris Dowen said:
“At MoRServ we are passionate about
sharing knowledge and best practice with
businesses. We are thrilled to join the
Platinum Group and look forward to
making an impact in the region.”
In turn, Vantage 365 upgraded from
Bronze membership to Platinum Group
following a referral from MoRServ.
Based at the Waterfront in Brierley Hill,
Vantage 365 supports a diverse range of
business clients in making maximum and
efficient use of Microsoft 365,
SharePoint, and the Power Platform.
CEO Matt Weston said: “Our vision is
to become partners with organisations
so we recognise the value in networking
and connecting with like-minded firms.
“We are excited by the opportunity to
learn from fellow Platinum members and
look forward to sharing our expertise to
help other companies make the most of
the technology available.”
Energy and water consultants Control
Energy Costs has taken up Platinum
membership.
Providing businesses with bespoke
utility management and procurement
solutions to reduce their carbon footprint
and work to Net Zero, it joins the Platinum
Group from Bronze Level membership.
Control Energy Costs Client
Relationship Manager Nigel Addison-
Evans said membership “will help build
great relationships and allow us to share
our expertise to benefit businesses.”
The Chamber’s Head of Premium
Membership, Gail Arnold, welcomed all
the new Platinum members. She said: “I
am thrilled to welcome all the new
members. The Platinum Group has a
strong record of providing a positive
impact and it is an absolute pleasure to
work with such fantastic businesses as
they share best practice and build strong
and trusted business relationships.”
Find out more about the
Black Country Chamber
Platinum membership by
visiting the Chamber’s
dedicated website here
34 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Platinum Group membership offers
a welcome lift to Mercia’s profile
Black Country Chamber of Commerce
has welcomed lifting equipment
specialists Mercia to its Platinum Group.
Established in 1982, and based in
Chapel Green in Willenhall since 2002,
Mercia operate four divisions: Mercia
Lifting Gear, Mercia Industrial Doors,
Mercia ElectroMec, and Mercia
Electrical Solutions. It specialises in a
range of services including large lifting
equipment, electrical and mechanical
modifications, industrial roller shutter
doors, electrical wholesale, and
consumables, and more recently, the
introduction of the supply of solar
panels, battery storage and all
associated work.
Mercia lost its second founding
member, Don Mead in early 2024.
With the passing of Ron Clarke in 2022,
the responsibility of carrying on with
their legacy has now been handed to
Michael and Steve Clarke with the
assistance of all Mercia employees.
Going forward Mercia are focusing on
developing the business as planned
with Don Mead.
The company’s skilled and
knowledgeable engineers and
technicians provide solutions to solve
almost any electrical or mechanical
issue, working in partnership to give the
best cost-effective solution.
Committed to making a positive
impact on the environment, Mercia is
working in collaboration with the
University of Wolverhampton, to
develop innovative technologies
to achieve net zero emissions.
The Mercia Clean Tech project
is aimed at reducing emissions from
diesel generators and the project was
named as a finalist in the WMCA
Natural Environment Awards 2024.
Don invested his time and money into
Nano technology, attending various
meetings throughout the last 12
months alongside Mercia’s Contract
Manager, Jamie Fereday. “Exciting
times ahead,” were Don’s words…..
Jamie Fereday explained why the
company had joined the Platinum Group:
“We want to raise our profile and have the
opportunity to share best practice with
like-minded businesses.
“Janet Bayley from the University of
Wolverhampton introduced us to the
Platinum Group, and we very much look
Mercia Contract Manager
Jamie Fereday with Gail Arnold
forward to working with other members
to share our knowledge and experience
as well as building new relationships.”
Black Country Chamber Head of
Premium Membership Gail Arnold added:
“We are delighted to welcome Mercia to
the Platinum Group and look forward to
them working with the Chamber as they
continue to grow their business.
“Mercia is playing an active role in
supporting the business community
transition to decarbonised energy and I
am sure their knowledge and expertise
will be welcomed by our members.”
For more information on the Platinum
Group contact Gail Arnold on 07810 377819
or see the Chamber’s dedicated
website, here:
Chamber is supporting region’s manufacturing community
During a period of high inflation,
political changes and strained supply
chains, the Black Country manufacturing
community is coming together to share
best practice and thought leadership.
The recent Manufacturing Outlook
Report conducted by audit, tax,
advisory and risk firm Crowe in
partnership with the Confederation of
British Metalforming (CBM), looked at
the issues impacting manufacturers. 87
per cent said they were unhappy with
the Government support provided to
the sector, 45 per cent viewed current
global turbulence and economic
conditions as barriers to growth and 70
per cent reported having invested in
carbon neutral initiatives last year, up a
a third on 2023.
The Chamber is pleased to offer
tailored support to manufacturing and
engineering companies, connecting
with the region’s industrial heritage.
We host events at least once per
quarter with delegates solely from
manufacturing and engineering
businesses, to facilitate sector-specific
strategic conversations.
The aim is to hold the events at
member facilities with a tour included,
using Gemba, the Six Sigma approach
to see best practice in the setting. So
far this year, the Chamber has hosted
sessions on managing change
successfully and on productivity in
manufacturing.
If you would like to attend future
events, contact Richard Hobbs on
07842 421598
or email him:
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 35

CHAMBER POLICY
Chamber policy team is focused on
keeping our members up-to-date
Gemma Edwards, the Chamber’s Policy & Impact
Officer, provides an overview of her work supporting
members on policy issues impacting business
The calling of a General Election is only to
be welcomed by the business community,
as it ends uncertainty. Businesses now
know that in a few weeks we will know
who will be leading the country, and
following the King’s Speech on 17th July
there will be more transparency on the
policy direction of the new Government.
As a non-political organisation, we will
not be endorsing any policies or
candidates, but will continue to campaign
and lobby on key issues for our
membership and the wider economy.
One example of this is the Carbon
Border Adjustment Mechanism (CBAM)
and the need for early clarity for UK
businesses as to what will be required of
them following the roll-out of the UK
GET IN TOUCH
My door is always open to any members
who may have a specific policy issue in
their industry to be addressed, or if a
connection is needed.
If there is a topic that is not covered
that you think should be,
let me know at by emailing me:
CBAM, currently
scheduled for 2027.
The aim of the
Chamber’s policy
function is to raise awareness and
engagement with the Chamber, via policy
led events like the Quarterly Economic
Survey, our Meet Your MP events, Think
Tank sessions and the Bank of England
panels (see below for more on this).
As well as this, my role is to ensure that
I’m keeping up to date with policy,
legislation, and regulation changes that
could impact our members, and to pass
on that information as I receive it.
This can include attending meetings,
webinars, reading every newsletter that I
receive, and often reaching out to
contacts in government departments to
ask for more clarity.
Members benefit by being kept
informed of upcoming changes that will
affect them and can in turn ask the
Chamber for assistance with anything
that may be a problem.
An example of this is Russian
sanctions. The combined Chambers
shouting loudly nationally about the
impact of the sanctions meant that
Meet Your MP
Our MP events are focused on
building relationships between local
businesses and their MP.
We organise a date with the MP, find
a venue, and invite businesses within
that constituency to attend a
roundtable event. They are a great
opportunity to speak directly to your
MP about issues that may be
affecting your business, meet others
who may be experiencing the same
problems, and find out about sources
of help that are available.
To receive an invitation to your next
local event, contact the Chamber
policy team.
earlier this year paperwork requirements
were finally scrapped when the UK was
designated a partner country to the EU
on the sanctions.
Part of my job is to write the policy
communications from the Chamber.
You should keep an eye out for the
fortnightly policy newsletter landing in
your inboxes.
Recently refreshed, it is the first place
to go to for information and updates on
hot topics such as Net Zero legal
requirements, or changes to border or
customs rules.
Make your voice heard to the Bank of England
Members can share their
updates, questions and
concerns with the Bank of
England during our regular
Black Country Chamber
events.
These sessions allow
members to receive key
information and give regional
reports on the issues faced by Black
Country firms.
The most recent online session
included an update from the UK’s central
bank on the outlook for interest rates and
expected economic trends. Graeme
Chaplin, Bank of England Agent for the
West Midlands and Oxfordshire
(pictured), outlined the national
outlook and the latest information
collected by the Bank’s network
of agents across the country.
Chamber members discussed
business conditions and offered
their views on topics of interest
to the Bank’s Policy Committees.
The March session included
updates on business confidence,
investment plans, consumer spending,
the impact of disruption in the Red Sea,
labour market challenges, pay growth
expectations and the outlook for pricing.
Speaking after the event, Black
Country Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse
said: “Thank you to all Chamber members
who made valuable contributions at this
event. There were some great
discussions around current business
challenges as well as reasons to be
positive.”
The next Bank of England Panel event
will take place online following the July 4
General Election, exclusively for Gold,
Platinum Group and Patron Group
Chamber members.
For more information and to
book a Gold, Platinum or
Patron place to these
events, visit:
36 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Director-general
calls for closer
co-operation after
US Chamber visit
SMEs’ concerns rising over
new border checks, says BCC
The British Chamber of Commerce’s
Quarterly Economic Survey has revealed
that most firms reported no
improvement in investment levels, sales
or cashflow in the first quarter of 2024.
After a slight rise in Q4, levels of
business confidence remained static.
For the second quarter in a row, 56% of
businesses said they were expecting an
increase in turnover over the next year.
With inflation likely to remain volatile,
the data also revealed that more firms
expect hikes in their own prices, with
staffing costs being the main pressure.
The survey, conducted between 12th
February and 12th March, of over 4,800
firms across the UK, 92 per cent of whom
are SMEs with fewer than 250
employees, also revealed business
performance across different sectors
varied considerably.
David Bharier, Head of Research at the
British Chambers of Commerce said:
“Although business confidence remains
buoyant at the start of the year, most
SMEs are still not reporting any tangible
improvement to business conditions.”
Concerns mount over customs costs
and clarity
The British Chambers of Commerce
remains concerned about the impact on
small British businesses of new customs
checks and charges that came into force
at the end of April.
The second phase of the UK’s Border
Target Operating Model introduced
charges of up to £145 for imports of plant
and animal products.
Depending on the EU exporter’s
classification, the charges will either be
paid by it or the British importer, but
either way the costs are likely be passed
on to consumers.
There remains uncertainty around
which consignments will be subject to
checks due to issues with border
computer systems.
William Bain, Head of Trade Policy at
the BCC, said: “The Government should
immediately exclude firms in the trusted
trader scheme from these charges, which
would give many smaller businesses
some relief.
“But in the long-term, these checks
and costs should be done away with by
reaching an agri-food deal with the EU,
something we have consistently called
for.”
If you require assistance with
International Trade, contact the
Chamber team here:
Supply chain security, trade deals,
tariffs and planning permission were
the big issues during the British
Chambers of Commerce’s five-day
mission to the US to promote
business and investment.
Director-General Shevaun
Haviland’s trip included visits to the
United Nations, the US Council for
International Business and the US
Chamber of Commerce.
It was organised ahead of the US
elections as issues around trade
agreements, tariffs, supply-chain
disruption, subsidies, protectionism
and geo-political tensions all gather
momentum.
Shevaun said: “Many of the issues
for businesses in the US are very
similar to the ones in the UK. Both
governments and business
communities must continue to work in
close partnership to make the most of
our collective opportunities. We look
forward to continuing that dialogue
and engaging with businesses and
politicians on all sides.”
Gemma Edwards, Policy and Impact
Officer at Black Country Chamber
added: “The focus on sectors
including life science, energy, security
and defence, is exciting news for this
region as we have several well-known
firms in these areas, some of whom
have already signed deals with US
companies, and more will follow as the
Investment Zone and Green
Innovation Corridors are established.
“If your firm would like assistance
with reaching out to the US market,
please contact the Black Country
Chamber via policy@
blackcountrychamber.co.uk”.
“Governments
and business
communities
must continue to
work in close
partnership to
make the most
of our collective
opportunities”
Shevaun Haviland
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 37

CHAMBER POLICY
Business confidence dips but better
news on recruitment and pricing
Chamber QES reveals
domestic sales static but
slight rise in exports
Difficulties in hiring staff
ease but still a need for
more skilled employees
Business confidence among Black
Country firms fell in the first three
months of the year, the latest economic
survey by the region’s Chamber of
Commerce showed.
The data, based on a survey of
Chamber member businesses during
Quarter 1, revealed 59 per cent of Black
Country businesses believed turnover
would improve over the next 12 months,
down from 71 per cent in Quarter 4.
The findings also showed 53 per cent
expected profitability to improve over the
next 12 months compared to 58 per cent
three months earlier.
The Quarterly Economic Survey (QES)
data was announced at the Chamber’s
second Quarterly Economic Survey Data
Reveal event, held at the Black Country
and Marches Institute of Technology in
Dudley.
Rising labour costs and utility prices
were the biggest pressure points for
businesses.
The other key findings included:
n 27 per cent of firms reported an
increase in domestic sales, while 41 per
cent reported no change and 27 per cent
reported a decrease.
n 12 per cent of firms reported an
increase in overseas sales, up from 6 per
cent in Quarter 4. 18 per cent reported no
change and 11 per cent a decrease.
n 64 per cent attempted to recruit over
the past quarter, up from 57 per cent in
Quarter 4. 54 per cent experienced
recruitment difficulties, down from 62 per
cent in Quarter 4.
The results were unveiled during the
briefing for Chamber members, which
included a networking session followed
by a data presentation from Gemma
Edwards, Black Country Chamber Policy
& Impact Officer.
Gemma said: “While business confidence
has fallen and there is a slight downward
trend in domestic sales and orders from
the last quarter of 2023, it was
encouraging to see that more businesses
looked to recruit in the first quarter of this
year.
Pictured at the QES reveal event are (from
left) Chamber Sales & Marketing Director
Sian Roberts; Chamber Policy & Impact
Officer Gemma Edwards; and ActionCoach
Senior Partner Andy Hemming
“Fewer Black Country firms reported
difficulties hiring staff, although
recruitment struggles continue,
particularly for organisations looking to
hire skilled engineers and technicians.”
Gemma added: “Businesses are being
cautious, with three quarters of survey
respondents neither increasing or
decreasing their investment in training or
machinery and equipment.”
CEO Sarah Moorhouse said: “The QES
shows that rising labour costs, utility
prices and inflation continue to be
significant concerns for businesses, but it
is positive to see that, overall, firms
expect prices to remain constant over the
next three months.”
“
Rising labour costs, utility
prices and inflation continue to
be significant concerns for
businesses, but it is positive to
see that, overall, firms expect
prices to remain constant...
“
The next QES data reveal event
will be held on 11th July.
Register to attend at on
the Chamber website
38 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

60
50
40
30
20
10
Andy Hemming
delivers his
presentation to the
QES reveal event
Skilled staff still in short supply
but firms have training plans
The full Black Country Chamber of
Commerce QES Quarter 1 2024
summary findings included:
Sales Trends (Domestic and Export)
27 per cent of firms reported an
increase in domestic sales, while 41 per
cent reported no change and 27 per cent
reported a decrease.
12 per cent of firms reported an
increase in overseas sales, up from 6 per
cent in Quarter 4, while 18 per cent
reported no change and 11 per cent
reported a decrease.
19 per cent of businesses saw an
increase in domestic orders this quarter
while 12 per cent of businesses reported
an increase in overseas orders.
Recruitment
64 per cent of Black Country firms
attempted to recruit over the past
quarter, up from 57 per cent in Quarter 4.
54 per cent of firms across the Black
Country experienced recruitment
difficulties in Quarter 1 compared to 62
per cent in Quarter 4.
Q1 2024 Q4 2023 Domestic sales Overseas sales
Difficulty in recruiting
Sales on the rise (Q1)
The majority of firms found it difficult to
recruit skilled/technical staff.
Business resilience
Rising labour costs are rivalling the
rise in utility prices as a pressure point
this quarter.
Inflation and competition are among
the highest concerns for firms across all
sectors in the region, at 44 per cent and
38 per cent respectively.
Cashflow increased for 23 per cent of
firms while investment plans increased
for equipment and training for 13 per cent
and 18 per cent of Black Country
businesses respectively.
Overall, firms expect prices to remain
constant over the next three months.
Business confidence
59 per cent of businesses believe
turnover will improve over the next 12
months compared with 71 per cent in
Quarter 4. 53 per cent of Black Country
businesses believe profitability will
improve over the next 12 months, up from
58 per cent in Q4.
Key points
n Rising labour costs
and utility prices
biggest concerns
n Inflation worries
n Cashflow up
n More firms planning
investment in
equipment and
training
Systems hold key
for succession
planning, QES
audience told
Establishing effective systems and
processes is key to successful
succession planning, delegates at the
QES reveal event were told.
The comments were made by guest
speaker Andy Hemming, Senior Partner
from business coaching company
ActionCoach.
The Chamber QES revealed that 16
per cent of respondents were looking to
hand over their business to a successor
in the next five years, and 53 per cent
within 15 years. However, many had no
plan in place for succession planning,
and of those wanted to find a successor,
66 per cent had not identified one.
Andy’s key advice to business owners
wanting to create a business of high
sale value that would run successfully
after their departure was to ensure it
had good systems and processes.
The definition of a business is “a
commercial profitable enterprise that
can work without you,” he explained.
Andy said: “Without that, all you have
is a job, not a business. And how much
would somebody pay you for a job if you
decided to sell it?
“Systems and processes provide
consistency so that people can leave but
you continue to provide the same service,
products and customer experience.
“Unless we are building systems and
processes that create success, there is
no way we can build a business to
create successful succession.”
Illustrating the value of good systems
and processes, Andy highlighted the
McDonald’s franchise model. “A
franchisee buys the systems and
processes, not the employees,” he said.
“Guess how many employees leave?
Loads. Guess how many they recruit?
Loads. Guess how the business
performs? The same. The systems run
the business and the people run the
systems.”
He added: “Exit is inevitable. You are
going to leave your business at some
point, and people will leave you.
Consistency builds success, and great
systems and processes build consistency.”
More on succession planning in our
cover story, turn to page 50
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 39

SPOTLIGHT ON SANDWELL
Sandwell at 50: stronger businesses,
thriving communities
As Sandwell marks its 50th anniversary
in 2024, Sandwell Council is
celebrating everything great about the
borough – while working hard to secure
the brightest of futures for its people,
communities and businesses.
Foundations for success
The metropolitan borough of Sandwell
was formed in 1974, when its six main
towns (Oldbury, Rowley Regis,
Smethwick, Tipton, Wednesbury and
West Bromwich) were brought together
under the current boundaries.
But like all of the Black Country,
Sandwell’s foundations for success were
laid down millions of years before that.
Rich coal and ironstone reserves meant
this region flourished in the 18th century
onwards, with the Industrial Revolution
and the arrival of canals.
Modern-day Sandwell is a gateway to
the Black Country from Birmingham, with
excellent connections to the rest of the
country. Ninety per cent of the population
of England and Wales is less than two
hours’ drive away.
World class, world serving
Today the borough has a world-class,
world-serving supply chain, making
products and components used in
aerospace, construction, engineering,
healthcare and every industry in between.
It has a young, diverse and rapidly
growing population to keep those
industries growing and innovating.
If you have ever lived or worked in
Sandwell – or just visited – you will know
that its friendly people are the epitome of
everyone’s favourite Black Country
adjective: bostin. Sandwell is a down-toearth
place with an inspiring community
spirit.
And despite being a central, industrial
powerhouse, Sandwell retains glorious
green spaces, including the much-loved
Sandwell Valley and Lightwoods Park,
enhancing people’s pride in where they
live and work.
Pro-business council
Sandwell’s many industries benefit
from a pro-business council. Sandwell
Council knows the power of successful
businesses, for jobs, skills, raising
aspirations and building wealth in local
communities. The friendly and
knowledgeable Business Growth Team is
committed to helping Sandwell
businesses of all sizes to prosper.
The council also has an outstanding
track record in bringing funding into
Sandwell. The borough played host to
visitors from all over the world during the
Birmingham 2022 Commonwealth
Games and now has the legacy of the
Sandwell Aquatics Centre for local people
to enjoy.
That is not to say Sandwell is free from
problems. Sandwell Council
acknowledges that too many residents
have their health and life expectancy
impacted by their social circumstances.
Commitment to the future
Now emerging from a period of
Government intervention, having been
praised for its changes and significant
progress, Sandwell Council is committed
to the brightest and best future for the
borough.
As Chief Executive Shokat Lal said, it is
time to “tell a new story” about Sandwell;
to build on its strong foundations and
“re-establish our rightful place in the
West Midlands and in the country”.
Sandwell Council’s first focus, amid the
lifting of Government directions, was to
become brilliant at the basics. That
means getting things right for residents:
making services efficient and easy to use
and working for the people who need
them.
The second phase now is of continuous
Lasting legacy of the Commonwealth
Games: the Sandwell Aquatics Centre
improvement: to build on the initial
positive trajectory and strive for
excellence. For Shokat Lal and team, this
means “embracing transformational
change and becoming a modern, efficient
and agile organisation that has consistent
high customer service standards”.
It also means working hard to ensure
that people, businesses and communities
benefit from the huge amount of
regeneration happening in Sandwell.
Across the six towns, there are 69
planned regeneration projects and 14
further developments recently
completed, worth a total of £3bn and
supporting over 14,000 jobs.
By reducing tendering barriers for local
businesses keen to work on these
projects, and writing ‘social value’ clauses
into contracts, Sandwell Council is
determined to see more investment
retained and recycled in the borough,
more jobs created and skills nurtured for
local people, and the local environment
protected and improved.
The council’s Business Growth Team
and the Sandwell Business Ambassadors
are there to advocate for the business
community, break down barriers to them
securing new contracts, and forge links
between buyers and the local supply
chain.
They are here for you, too.
WANT TO KNOW MORE?
To learn more about the business
support available in
Sandwell, click here
or email the Business Growth Team
40 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

PROSPER FEATURE: PROFILE: STEVE BAVINGTON, YMCA BLACK COUNTRY
Black Country Chamber was delighted to announce YMCA Black Country as its official charity
for the year ahead. Rob Beswick caught up with its CEO, Steve Bavington, to learn more about
the organisation and what he hopes will be gained through its partnership with the Chamber
We’re giving
Black Country’s
youth a chance
to thrive
YOU CAN’T do an interview with the CEO
of YMCA Black Country without
mentioning THAT song… and sure
enough, it cropped up about five
minutes into our chat.
“I suppose”, I mused, “everyone thinks
they know a lot about the YMCA, but
when it comes down to it, the Village
People, well, they’re not the most
accurate information source out there…”
To Steve Bavington’s credit he laughed
as if he hadn’t heard the link before.
I think he was being polite, but the
truth is, whatever you THINK you know
about the YMCA, I’ll guarantee you’ve not
got all the story.
It’s a point Steve was keen to stress.
“The YMCA has been around for 180
years, and while it was set up as a
Christian association for young men, it
has moved on a long way since then.
“It is still aimed at young people, 16-25,
but it is fully inclusive now, and connects
with a much broader age demographic.
“We run nursery groups at one end of
the spectrum, and host community
events for every age group. We are here
to support young people, but no-one
exists on their own; they are all part of a
family, or a community.”
As an example he cited recent
community events YMCA Black Country
has run on Dudley’s Wren’s Nest Estate,
“which brought all the community
together. The work we do is focused on
young people and helping them handle
the pressures they face, but doing it by
interacting with the whole community.”
In the case of Wren’s Nest Navigators,
“Many of the young people we
house have nowhere else to go.
They just need a secure base
from where they can develop a
sense of belonging and put down
some roots
Steve Bavington
“
“it was a Lottery funded project that put
our youth support workers at the heart of
the estate, working with the young
people, but with their parents and
grandparents as well.”
A key part of YMCA’s work is its ability
to offer practical, supported living
accommodation to young people – which
was very much the thinking behind its
foundation back in 1844.
That was when George Williams, a
successful draper originally from
Somerset but living in London, decided
to act after becoming concerned with the
lack of healthy activities for young men
drawn to London and the other English
cities by the Industrial Revolution.
He came up with the idea of providing
them with secure accommodation and
entertainment more wholesome than the
bars and brothels they usually frequented!
Today’s YMCA may be miles away from
Williams’ original concept, but that desire
to provide safe, stable homes for young
people is still at the heart of its work.
Indeed, we were chatting shortly after
the sign-off on the latest YMCA Black
Country project, a new 26-flat apartment
block that is awaiting its final fit-out.
“We call it Moving On accommodation,”
said Steve. “Our housing falls into a
number of silos. We offer Supported
Living, which is accommodation in one of
our flats with a range of services on hand
to support young people. Moving On
accommodation is more independent
and offers a stepping stone from
supported living to going it alone in the
private sector.”
Tenancy lengths vary, from between six
months to two years. “What we are
offering is a safe landing zone,” says
Steve. “Many of the young people we
house have nowhere else to go. They may
be homeless, or at risk of being made
homeless. They just need a secure base
from where they can develop a sense of
belonging and perhaps put down some
roots and regain their confidence.
In addition there’s Y Living. This is
42 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

NEWS
YMCA Supported Living
effectively private accommodation but
the landlord is the YMCA – “a landlord
they can trust,” as Steve puts it. Aimed at
young professionals aged 18-35 or young
people in full-time education or training,
Y Living gives them the opportunity to
live in great quality accommodation,
alongside like-minded individuals, but at
an affordable price.
“Y Living is something we need more of
in the West Midlands. There is a shocking
shortage of good, affordable housing for
young people. Very few young people
starting their careers can afford £1,000-
1,200 a month in rent. Rent has risen by
far more than wages. Unless you’ve got
some personal experience of the issue,
it’s hard to comprehend just how hard it
is for young people today.”
The point behind all the YMCA’s work is
to help young people ‘Belong, Contribute
and Thrive’.
“They are our three watchwords,” says
Steve. “We have this as our vision. We
want all the young people we work with to
find their place in the world and discover
how they can contribute to society,
whether that’s volunteering, working,
mentoring... anything that gives people a
sense of value and worth. We want them
to think ‘I’m contributing to the YMCA, to
my community, and if I contribute here, I
can contribute anywhere’.”
That desire to make a contribution was
the driving force behind Steve joining the
YMCA in the first place. His background
probably isn’t typical of the charity sector:
media sales!
“I was born and brought up in Pakistan,
and lived there until I was 17 when I
moved to Kent. My first job was in advert
sales with the Kent and Sussex Courier,
before I moved to Birmingham.”
He switched to event management
before taking on a role at the YMCA as
head of communications and running
events. “I left to head up a small charity in
Birmingham, but came back to lead
YMCA Black Country in March 2023.”
From the outset he knew it was a role in
which he could make a real difference.
“It’s an absolute privilege to lead this
charity,” Steve said. “We are literally
changing peoples’ lives. But the thing
that grabs me most is that we are doing it
with really quite simple interventions.
There is nothing complicated or clever
about anything we do: we’re just giving
young people support when they need it,
or a solid home and a base from which
they can thrive.”
Communal living spaces
help young people make
friends and network
So how does the accommodation
system work? “Young people apply
directly to us, or are referred to us by
social services or other agencies. Our
homes have single occupancy rooms,
with communal kitchens and living space.
Think, university halls of residence.”
Mixing ages is important. “We take
young people from 16-25. We’re very
aware that the younger ones can be a
little crazy at times so we try to have
some more mature people in the
accommodation to add a bit of
levelheadedness.”
As a parent myself, perhaps the most
heartbreaking part of the conversation
with Steve was around YMCA’s Open
Door – Supported Lodgings project. It’s
for 16-17- year-olds who become homeless.
Continued on page 44
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 43

PROSPER PROFILE: STEVE BAVINGTON, YMCA BLACK COUNTRY
Young people get their own room –
think university halls of residence...
Continued from page 43
Steve explained more: “Our normal
supported accommodation demands a
certain amount of self reliance, and those
younger teens often just don’t have that.
They are too young to live independently;
it’s just too daunting a prospect.
That’s where the YMCA’s Open Door
- Supported Lodgings project comes in. It
is a different approach; local people who
have a spare room – and a lot of heart –
offer a base to a young person. “Our local
hosts are brilliant. The young person
lodging with them gets a room of their
own and a chance to rebuild their life.”
It’s a breathtakingly simple project that
delivers real impact. “It began when a
benefactor gave us £30,000 to launch it.
The council match-funded it, and it’s
been so successful it has been rolled out
across the whole of the Black Country.”
That initial gift of £30,000 “has meant
we can give security and a stable home to
“Demand for our services outstrips
our ability to help. YMCA has
420 rooms but we could double
this and still not have enough
“
literally hundreds of young people. That’s
what I call a return on investment!”
But no matter how hard YMCA Black
Country works to provide a home, the
calls for help don’t go away – indeed, it’s
getting worse. “I’ve already touched on
one issue: affordable places to rent for
young people. There aren’t enough.
Demand for our services constantly
outstrips our ability to help. YMCA has
420 rooms for young people in the Black
Country but I’ll be honest, we could
double that number and still not be
catering for every young person in crisis.”
It’s not just in housing where you get
the impression the system is, if not
collapsing, then certainly creaking.
“Youth services are in crisis. Councils
have lost around 40% of their central
funding since 2010, and in most cases
youth services have been cut,” says
Steve. “What makes it worse is that in the
1980s a lot of youth services were
centralised under local authority control,
taking them away from third sector
service providers – often, local churches.
“But now the centrally funded youth
services have been cut, there is no-one
stepping into the gap to provide them –
just charities such as YMCA.”
So how can Black Country Chamber
members help? “We’d love to work with
Chamber members. There are a number
of ways; take a look through our website
and see which project you would like to
get involved with. It could be by funding
our housing, or a youth support project.
The opportunities are endless.”
“Think of it as your CSR. Business
leaders often say young people aren’t
ready for the world of work; when you see
the challenges some of them have faced,
that’s not a surprise.
“Why not use your CSR funds to make
a real difference? Fund one of our youth
workers; we can go into some of the more
challenging estates and address some of
the key issues at source.
“One thing that this role has taught me
is that early intervention is key; young
people need to be able to trust adults and
turn to them for help, when they are at
junctions in their lives when they could
make bad decisions.”
It’s a win-win for businesses who get
involved with YMCA Black Country.
“Many businesses have a CSR strategy,
and in our experience their teams like it
to be aimed at local projects. What better
project can you think of, than investing in
young people in your neighbourhood?”
One specific project Steve is
encouraging Chamber members to back
is its 180 Degree Fund. “We’re 180 years
old, so we are running the 180 Degree
Fund to mark that milestone – and to turn
young people’s lives around, through 180
degrees! We are looking for 180 businesses
to donate £180, giving us a £32,000 fund
with which we can fund a youth worker or
project that will help local young people.”
If you need any more inspiration, “just
look at what was achieved all those years
ago when one man made a generous
donation of £30,000; it allowed us to
launch Open Door - Supported Lodgings,
and that’s still going strong now, having
helped hundreds of young people from
crisis into secure accommodation.”
There are other ways to support YMCA
“
Many businesses have a CSR
strategy... what better project
can you think of, than investing
in your neighbourhood?
“
Black Country. “If you are looking for a
charity to support while you’re tackling a
marathon, think of us. And next year we
are planning our own Three Peaks
Challenge, taking on Ben Nevis, Scafell
Pike and Snowdon in a single weekend.
Think you are up to it?”
But what’s also important to Steve is
how the partnership with Black Country
Chamber will increase awareness of this
great charity’s work. “When Sarah
Moorhouse told me we were your
Chamber Charity for the Year, I was
delighted, because I know that it gives us
a chance to tell the business community
about the work we do, and how you can
help fund it in the future.
“There is nothing more important to
our communities than giving young
people the chance to thrive and flourish.
“If you want to support the next
generation of workers, then helping
YMCA Black Country is a great place to
start.”
More on YMCA Black Country’s
180 Degree Fund
can be found here:
44 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

SPOTLIGHT FEATURE: SCHOOL GOVERNORS
School governors constitute one of the UK’s largest volunteer groups, but as Steve Edmonds of
Sandwell Borough Council explains, there is an urgent need for new people to step forward and fill
this vital role. Rob Beswick reports
It’s a win-win scenario when you
step in to school as a governor
Sandwell Borough Council has issued a
call to Black Country Chamber members:
can you offer your knowledge and
experience to help run schools and
colleges in your local community as a
school governor?
Many people from the business world
already give up their free time and
volunteer as a school governor. In doing
so they play a crucial role in our education
system. Indeed, school governors are one
of the largest volunteer groups in the UK
numbering around 250,000.
But there remains a national shortage
of governors and certain groups,
including people under the age of 40 and
citizens from black and minority ethnic
communities, are under-represented in
school governance. This is the case in
Sandwell, where the council is running a
public awareness campaign to attract
more volunteers by promoting the
benefits that governing brings to
individuals, schools and communities.
Steve Edmonds works in the Leader’s
office at Sandwell Metropolitan Borough
Council and is one of the people involved
in running the campaign. An experienced
governor himself, Steve has seen
first-hand the benefits the role brings to
businesses, both in terms of profile and
upskilling employees.
He told Prosper that business and
education have a lot to offer each other.
“People with business skills are a real
asset on school governing bodies”.
“It’s also an important part of
community life that employers and
business owners can support as part of
their corporate social responsibility”.
“The,skills that employees develop
through governing can be brought back
into the workplace, meaning that staff at
all levels can experience what it is like to
serve on a board that analyses, debates
and make decisions linked to
improvement plans, financial strategy,
performance management, infrastructure
projects and partnership working”.
So why does governor volunteering fit
so well with the world of business? Steve
says it’s because governance is focused
on being strategic. “Governors aren’t
involved in the day-to-day running of a
school, but they are responsible for setting
its long-term goals, its policies, monitoring
progress and how money is spent.
“Most people reading this article will be
at director or managerial level; they will
be used to doing these things, so it’s not
surprising they make good governors”
Continuing this theme, the council’s
campaign aims to address a common
misconception, namely that in order to be
an effective school governor, you have to
be a teacher, parent or have a background
working in schools and education.
In fact, as Steve says, “The most
effective school governing bodies have
people from diverse backgrounds with a
range of skills and experience who are
committed to making a school the best
that it can be”.
The time involved in serving as a school
governor is often cited as a reason not to
volunteer. While Steve acknowledges
that this can be an issue, he says that for
most time commitment is manageable. “I
definitely wouldn’t be put off by it. On
average you’ll be spending around 20
hours a year mostly attending meetings
(often held outside school hours) along
with the occasional visit to the school to
see the impact of your work”.
“You also get to attend training and
development sessions to help you
understand the role and responsibilities”.
Steve added say that what volunteers
gain more than compensates for the time
commitment. “I don’t regret a single
moment I have spent governing. I’ve
learned a great deal, gained skills and built
networks that have helped me in my job.”
“Above all, I’ve been privileged to be
part of a team supporting the community
and the next generation”.
Finally, what would Steve’s message be
to individuals and employers about
governor volunteering. “Go for it – you
won’t regret it. There is a vibrant and
supportive school governor community in
Sandwell and some great schools in the
Borough who would love to have you on
board” For business it’s a win-win. You’re
developing the current workforce,
investing in the future one and adding
social value”. What can be better than
that?”
To find out more visit Sandwell
Council’s website, here
The application process is simple and
you’ll be matched to a school based on
your preferences.
46 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

HR ADVICE
Employing family can be a comfort
– but it must be seen as fair to all
Chamber start-up member
Laura Fox (right), of Fox HR,
offers some advice on the
best ways to employ family
members in your business
The thought of hiring a family member is
comforting because you already know
and trust that person. And when you’re
growing your business it can be hard to
trust just anyone, let alone a stranger.
Hiring family members can be a
positive experience as:
n The relationship already has a
foundation of trust and loyalty. Unlike
employees who may come and go, family
members are invested in the success of
the business.
n When relatives work together, there’s
often a natural harmony in ethics and
long-term objectives. This alignment can
foster a strong, purpose-driven company
culture.
The downsides to hiring family
members include:
n The perception of nepotism. Striking
a balance between recognising the
contributions of family members and
ensuring fairness to all employees is
delicate, but necessary.
n Hiring based solely on familial
relationships can lead to skill mismatches
and the need to address performance
issues, which can be tricky.
KEY AREAS TO ADDRESS
Recruitment
Make sure that your recruitment
process is fair and consistent, especially
for family members. Advertise vacancies
openly, accept applications, conduct
interviews, and make employment
decisions based on merit and qualifications.
Pay and benefits
Make sure you act fairly when it comes
to paying your family members. Look to
industry standards and the current job
market to keep you on track.
Illustrative photograph
Salary, bonuses, and benefits should
be determined by the same criteria
applied to all employees, to demonstrate
fairness and equality.
Top tips to safeguard your business:
n Establish clear expectations and
define roles. Clear job descriptions,
performance expectations, and
professional boundaries help maintain a
structured work environment.
n Combat communication breakdowns
with regular team meetings, performance
reviews, and an accessible feedback
mechanism to ensure that expectations
are well understood and conflicts are
promptly addressed.
n Create a fair and transparent work
environment. Establish clear policies and
procedures, ensuring that promotions,
“
Hiring family members can be
positive... the relationship already
has a foundation of trust and loyalty,
and family members will be invested
in the success of the business
“
raises, etc, are based on merit and
performance only.
If you are considering hiring a family
member, ask yourself how you would deal
with a worst-case scenario situation.
Picture yourself having a difficult
conversation with your family member
like making them redundant, or sacking
them, for example.
To safeguard your business, establish
clear expectations, prioritise
transparency, and seek expert support.
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 47

From left, celebrating the
investment are Source
Business Finance founder
Paul Atkins, ART Business
Loans lending manager Roz
Haque, Safe Haven owner
Shane Bryan and UKSE
regional executive Mike Lowe
Photo: UKSE
Investment means Safe Haven
can look to the next level
A family-run first aid training company based in
Cannock has secured a six-figure funding
package to invest in new technology and
expand its business.
Safe Haven Training has received a joint sixfigure
sum from business investment specialists
UKSE and ART Business Loans.
Established in 2012, Safe Haven Training
provides workplace first aid and health and
safety training courses to schools, nurseries,
councils and businesses across the West
Midlands.
The funding will enable the company to invest
in a CRM system and employ an additional four
members of staff.
Owner Shane Bryan said: “To meet demand we
are currently using sub-contractors to deliver
our training but the funding from UKSE and ART
will allow us to recruit additional trainers to join
our team of highly qualified professionals.”
UKSE provides up to £1m in equity investment
finance to support businesses in the West
Midlands area.
ART Business Loans is community
development financial institution (CDFI) which
provides loans to businesses of up to £150,000
UKSE regional executive Mike Lowe said: “At
UKSE one of our main aims is to help businesses
grow and create employment opportunities
through innovation. We are thrilled to be able to
support Safe Haven Training in realising their
growth plans.”
Roz Haque, ART Business Loans business
lending manager, added: “Safe Haven Training is
a great example of a thriving business looking to
innovate and create employment opportunities
in the region.”
Safe Haven Training was introduced to UKSE
and ART Business Loans by Lichfield-based
Source Business Finance.
Source Business Finance founder Paul Atkins
said: “It’s great to see that Safe Haven Training
can now embark on a new stage of growth
thanks to the joint funding from UKSE and ART.
“At Source Business Finance we aim to find the
right financial solutions for each business and
the strength of the collaborative relationship
with UKSE and ART has ensured the smooth
completion of the funding.”
“The strength of the collaborative
relationship with UKSE and ART
have ensured the smooth
completion of the funding.”
48 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

ADVERTORIAL: ART BUSINESS LOANS
An alternative route to finding funding
by Dr Steve Walker,
Chief Executive,
ART Business Loans
After the avalanche of
Government-supported funding
to assist SMEs to survive, recover and,
hopefully, prosper during Covid, it is not
at all surprising that access to the right
finance now re-emerges as an issue, with
difficult economic conditions and
increased interest rates.
Some businesses prospered in Covid,
and some small businesses even used
the highly advantageous terms of the
Bounce Back scheme as a means of
retaining funds for the inevitable rainy
day, or to build a war chest to take
opportunities for growth.
However, businesses that needed the
funds to survive and have also used their
reserves, both from the business and
personally, are finding life searching for
funds more difficult.
Part of that difficulty stems from the
fact that there is less funding around,
and the banks are, as usual when the
economy tightens, reducing their
appetite for lending at low debt levels of
below £250,000.
Some of the main reasons why small
and emerging businesses are unable to
obtain support are:
n They are at an early stage and have
a limited trading account
n The borrower has few assets to
offer as security
n Small loans are not profitable
for major lenders
n They are unable to meet
lenders’ initial requirements for
financial information.
For businesses that used their reserves
to come through the the economic
downturn, obtaining fresh funds is now
far more complex, and slower. It’s no
longer as simple as putting in a selfcertification
and seeing the funds in the
bank account the next day.
Those who borrowed simply to
survive lockdown face a sterner
challenge, as many lenders now demand
forecasts rather than making decisions
on past performance – future figures
that many businesses struggle to
produce.
For a while it seemed like peer-topeer
lenders and alternative funders
might offer a solution to those refused
by the banks: however, most of these
have raised the bar on the amounts they
are prepared to lend, and
escalateinterest rates on smaller loans.
Other facts are also now emerging as
a difficulty in seeking appropriate access
to finance.
Businesses, according to recent
surveys, look for a very speedy response
in seeking funding support. This is
usually found online but from my own
practical experience, many businesses
do not spend enough time looking at
the terms of the loans that they are
offered.
Too many do not take any advice on
the serviceability of the loans, which in
many cases are offered over terms that
are far too short, and in some cases, at
eye-watering interest rates. Examples of
are emerging in the business sector at
35 per cent > 45 per cent.
So where does a small, ambitious
business turn for funding? One answer
has to be Community Development
Funding Institutions (CDFIs). They are
prepared to lend where other lenders
say ‘No’. About 99 per cent of
businesses supported have been
declined by another lender.
They can say ‘Yes!’ because they take
a person-centred approach when
supporting businesses.
Find out more
Details of CDFIs across the country, many operating
in targeted geographic areas, can be found at
www.findingfinance.org.uk
AREAS
WE COVER
Cheshire | Shropshire | Herefordshire | Worcestershire
Warwickshire | West Midlands | Staffordshire | Derbyshire
Northamptonshire | Leicestershire | Oxfordshire | Gloucestershire
n SUPPORTING BUSINESS SINCE 1997
n BUSINESS LOANS FROM £10k - £150k
n EXPERIENCED RELATIONSHIP MANAGERS
n MEETING FUNDING NEEDS OF BUSINESS
n FOR MOST BUSINESS PURPOSES AND ALL SECTORS
n FOR JOBS, GROWTH AND OPPORTUNITY
www.artbusinessloans.co.uk • 0121 359 2444
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 49

SUCCESSION PLANNING
Succession planning has been identified as a key part of all successful businesses, ensuring stakeholder
confidence that the company will carry on when key staff step away. But the recent Chamber QES
revealed that many Chamber members have no succession plans in place – leaving them exposed if
senior team members leave. Here we look at how three member businesses tackled the issue and
ensured they were ‘future proofed’ to handle personnel changes. We also have some information on how
the Chamber can help you develop your plans
Planning for your business’s future
In-Comm Training: Taking
on the family business
Bekki Phillips has been at family business
In-Comm for more than 22 years, starting
as a sales administrator before making her
way through the ranks to chief operating
officer, where she now leads the company
with her brother, Gareth Jones.
Together, they have propelled In-Comm
to be one of the UK’s leading providers of
engineering and manufacturing
apprenticeships and upskilling courses,
supporting more than 2,500 learners and
700 companies from its HQ in the Black
Country, with a Technical Academy in
Telford.
The brother and sister team faced an
accelerated succession after their father
passed away unexpectedly in July 2020, a
heart-breaking moment made even more
difficult with the fact the company was
trying to support learners during Covid-19.
This development saw Gareth return to
the business after 18 months working
with its technical partner Engineering
Technology Group (ETG), as the duo
looked to steer a course through the
pandemic and a resurgence thereafter.
Their experiences have taught them a
lot about succession planning and the
need for it, as Bekki explains:
What advice would you give businesses
who want to carry out a succession move
but have not formalised a plan?
Bekki: The process needs to start early
on, because transferring specific skills and
knowledge doesn’t happen overnight. You
need time to create a solid plan that fits
the business and the personalities in it,
ensuring you futureproof your USPs and
scope out the ideal person or persons
you want to take the firm on.
We had started to do this, in order that
our father Geoff could enjoy a well-earned
retirement. His death came out of the
blue and meant we had to take a lot of the
decisions quicker than we envisaged.
What key factors should firms consider
in their succession planning generally?
Bekki: The best succession plans align
the business’s long-term goals, and you
must address these as a key priority. Your
focus needs to be on finding individuals
with the right behaviours that fit the
company culture. Even if they have the
right skills, qualifications and experience
on paper, if they don’t share similar
values, then you will be doomed to failure
and neither party will achieve their goals.
What do you know now that you can
only understand from completing the
succession planning process?
Bekki: You must always put the business
first. Even if what you are doing is not
right for the current management team,
you have to look at ensuring the company
has a clear progression pathway.
How does a strong succession plan
benefit a company in the long run?
Bekki: We are currently looking at our
next stage of succession planning and
asking how we find the future owners of
In-Comm Training. This isn’t because
we’re looking to retire or take a step back,
more that we believe if we get the
structure right now, it will not only benefit
“
The best succession
plans align the business’s
long-term goals, and you
must address these as a
key priority. Your focus
needs to be on finding
individuals with the right
behaviours that fit the
company culture.
Bekki Phillips
“
us in the short-term but will also give us
confidence to move forward.
During Covid-19 and following our
father’s death, we had to put in place a
very linear management structure and it
is only now, after scaling up massively
since the pandemic, that we are putting in
another level of management and looking
for an external candidate to support the
senior leadership team.
Hopefully, some of the appointments
we make now, combined with the
outstanding talent we already have at
In-Comm Training, will form the
management team of the future.
How should companies prepare to
navigate the complexities of family
dynamics within a succession plan?
Bekki: We could write a book on this.
Although we love the bones of each
other, my brother and I have very
different styles and we have come to
recognise that emotions can complicate
decision-making.
Unresolved conflicts, historical issues
and personal relationships can all interfere
with objective planning. Ultimately you
need to understand that it is OK to have
differing views, as this can also be a huge
positive and not always a negative.
If channelled in the right way, it can be
extremely beneficial to the company.
50 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

‘Work from the bottom up – it gives
the team a sense of belonging’
Coinadrink: Framing
succession as a positive
Leading vending and refreshment
solution company Coinadrink Ltd, based
in Walsall, has succession plans at all
levels to ensure the 75-employee firm has
stability for the future.
Since stepping up to become
managing director of the family business
in 2022, Tom Williams has ensured
people development is central to the
company and contingency plans are in
place if successors are needed in key
roles.
Tom said: “I previously worked in retail,
where you always had to have the next
supervisor or manager lined up in case
they were needed, so I wanted to ensure
we had plans here so there are people
ready to step into others’ shoes if there is
an emergency or situations change.
“Having stepped up from my previous
role as sales and marketing director due
to family circumstances, I identified that
with our long average service among staff
we needed to have conversations around
planning succession in key roles to
enable the business to progress.
“I relied heavily on the support of the
management team and some key
external advisers as I adapted in the first
six months. I was able to frame
conversations on succession planning as
“
Listen to your staff, find out
their goals ... you can plan
career progression and
identify your future leaders
“
“I was able to frame
conversations on succession
planning as a positive, making it
not about people exiting but
rather, ensuring there are
contingency plans in place and
highlighting how that was a
positive for the business
Tom Williams
“
a positive, making it not about people
exiting but rather, ensuring there are
contingency plans in place and
highlighting how that was a positive for
the business and for our employees.
“We have one-to-one meetings with
each staff member and discuss their
plans to find those open to progression
and then support them, while
encouraging the next generation by
employing apprentices.
“It is not just senior staff we need
succession plans for, but everyone in key
roles from the warehouse up, as they all
do an excellent job and we need to know
how to fill in for their work when needed.”
He said: “Succession planning starts at
the bottom as you need to ensure
employees lower down have a stronger
sense of belonging and want to be with
you.
“We rarely have to advertise for
vacancies nowadays as we have a good
reputation for how we treat people, which
means other family members want to join
us.”
Tom has this advice for businesses still
grappling with the prospect of starting
succession planning.
“Like anything in life, if you do not
prepare in advance you will not get
results,” he said. “If you do something
related to it every day and every week,
you will be amazed at the progress you
make – but it does not happen overnight.
“Listen to your staff and find out about
their lives and their goals. It may be time
consuming but you can plan career
progression for those who want to
advance and identify the future leaders
who can be supported with training and
gaining experience.”
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 51

SUCCESSION PLANNING
‘Put a plan in place... and
take some of the risk out
of your business’s future’
To any business leaders considering
putting in place some succession
planning within their organisation,
Anthony Burns has some strong advice:
Do it, and do it now!
“We know that succession planning can
become a bit messy if things are lacking
clarity or are left open to interpretation…”
he said. “As those who have seen the TV
drama Succession will know!”
Ant is well-versed on issues surrounding
planning for the future of any business, as
he is currently a year into his new role as
CEO of Paycare, after taking over from
the former CEO, Kevin Rogers, who had
led the business successfully for 14 years.
And as you can imagine from someone
who has been through the process, he
believes succession planning should be
top of every business’s agenda.
In Paycare’s case, “it was a necessity to
have a thoroughly laid out succession
plan, as it is a requirement of the financial
regulators,” he says. “But I know from our
own experience at Paycare that many
businesses don’t have anything in place.
It’s crucial they change that.”
Paycare is a not-for-profit health cash
plan provider celebrating its 150th year in
business, and works with around 800
businesses to provide physical, mental,
and financial support to their employees.
By Ant’s estimate, “around half don’t have
any kind of succession plan in place. If
that figure is representative of the
business world, that’s quite scary.”
The important thing is to view a
succession plan for your business as an
easy way to de-risk it. “Knowing what
happens when someone senior steps
down, and having a smooth transition of
authority from one person to another,
removes a huge element of risk from any
business. It’s why the financial regulator
insists on it for our sector.”
But even when succession plans are in
place, it’s important they aren’t just left in
a drawer to gather dust. Rather, any
succession plan “has to be a living
document,” says Ant. “It needs to be
updated and to evolve to accommodate
changes in your business.
“At any point, your client or service
focus may change, and that could
demand a wholly different type of leader
in the future, with a different skill set. The
person who seems right to take over
today may not be right tomorrow. You
need to be constantly thinking about how
your business is changing, and whether
those changes affect plans for the future.”
Any succession plan cannot focus
solely on the top job. “Sometimes people
just think about succession plans for the
CEO and assume everything else will fit
into place neatly in the event of a change
at the top. But that isn’t true. If someone
moves up to CEO, who replaces them in
Anthony Burns with Nicola Mumford,
Paycare’s Director of Operations
their previous role? How does that affect
other senior executives?”
His own experience at Paycare
highlights this. “We were planning for
Kevin to step down and for me to replace
him for quite some time, but it was only
once I stepped into the CEO role that
some factors became more apparent.
“For instance, Kevin was an accountant,
so his grasp of the figures around Paycare
was incredible, and he could talk to the
board in very much a financial expert’s
manner. My background is commercial, so
although I’ve got the figures, the way I
present them is different to Kevin. As a
result our Head of Finance has really
stepped up to the plate to support me.”
It’s also important to realise that
“moving one person up can create a
vacuum below; consider how every move
impacts those around them, and below
them. Succession planning isn’t just for
senior roles; you should have a
“ Succession planning needs
embedding throughout the
business; everyone with
leadership potential
can be identified...
”
52 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

succession plan in place for any role with
leadership responsibilities. And this
includes thinking about any skills gaps
there are, training and development
needed in the near future, or any other
investments you need to be making now
in readiness.”
The other thing to bear in mind is the
old adage, ‘the best laid plans…’
“Sometimes, succession plans don’t
work. While people may be excited at the
prospect of moving up in the business, as
the day creeps nearer their enthusiasm
could wane. Be aware that what looked
like a great idea on paper 12 months ago
might not be quite so brilliant now.”
Being aware that circumstances can
change is even more important when you
consider how far in the future Ant
believes you should be planning. “I’d set a
goal to look five years into the future,” he
says. “It certainly can’t be done in a year.
For a good succession plan you need to
identify the role’s key requirements, look
“
Any succession plan has to
be a living document... it needs to
evolve to accommodate changes
in your business.
“
for skill sets, consider who has those
within the organisation – or begin to look
outside if that makes for a better fit.”
So what advice would he have for the
momentous day itself? “Have a good
handover. Make sure you know
everything about the roles that are
changing – reporting lines, compliance
demands, key areas of concern and
powers. But make sure that exercise goes
deeper throughout the business so
everyone knows what is expected of
them in their new roles.”
Even with everything in place, “you need
to give the new system time to gel.
Everyone has their own way of handling
things, and when you are used to how
person A does it, responding to person B’s
way can take time for everyone. The
important thing is to understand that we’re
dealing with people here, with emotions. It
can be a pretty complicated time.”
Add in a family dynamic and that
complexity can be dialled up a notch.
While not having had experience of a
family business, Ant can imagine it is a
really tough dynamic. “If the family gets
on well, I’m sure it’s fine and you take the
same steps any other business does.
“But if there is a clash within the
family… well, let’s just say, check out
Succession!”
PROSPER SUMMER 2024
Chamber training can lead
way on succession planning
Businesses grappling with the
challenge of planning for
succession can get help from the
Chamber of Commerce, says
Policy and Impact Officer Gemma
Edwards.
The Chamber offers a range of
opportunities for companies to get
practical support as they plan for
the future.
Its first Quarterly Economic
Survey Data Reveal of 2024 found
the only 34% of Black Country
businesses who responded have
identified a clear successor to their
senior leader, and half had no plan
in place for succession. Yet the
majority of those surveyed (65%)
said they want to find a successor.
Gemma sees positives in the
survey responses despite the gap
in planning. “Black Country
businesses say they want to find a
successor, rather than closing or
selling the business, and that
shows me that they intend to be
around for a long time, which is
fabulous news for our economy.
“However, the plan for exiting the
business should be in your mind
from day one. Of course, in the
early stages, how you will
eventually leave it will be rather low
down on the to-do list – but once
things have stabilised, you need to
think about how to hand the
business on.
“Do you dream of establishing
your own dynasty here in the Black
Country and want to hand over to
relatives, or do you have a star
employee you can see taking over
from you one day? If neither of
these options is suitable for you,
what then?”
Businesses can take more
control of future direction by
streamlining their hiring process,
says Gemma.
She said: “Businesses need a
very clearly defined list of what
they are looking for from a
candidate, both for their skills and
experience in the role and their
culture fit and future aspirations.
“Businesses should use the
interview process to thoroughly
evaluate how the candidate will fit
into and with company values and
strategic goals in the long term.”
How the Chamber can help
Gemma says the Chamber can
support businesses with
succession planning through its
training opportunities.
She said: “Our Management
Development Programme
(MDP) course is for anyone
aspiring towards management, or
currently in a management position
and seeking to strengthen their
core competencies.
“There are 12 whole-day
sessions, and you can also take
individual modules to focus on
specific development needs.”
Course graduate Jennifer
Stevens, of ASSA ABLOY Opening
Solutions UKI in Willenhall said the
MDP course “was probably the
best training and development
course that I have done. Each
session had a distinct purpose to it,
and I feel that I have been given an
extensive toolkit to help me
become a better manager.”
Gemma believes businesses
should not be afraid to grapple with
the big issues around planning
secure futures.
She said: “Ensuring that your
employees are aware of clear paths
of development and access to
leadership training can solidify
their decision to stay in the long
run.
“Fostering mid-level growth
opportunities can mean the
difference between eventually
selling your business or securing its
legacy.”
You can learn more about
the Chamber’s
Management Development
Programme here:
53

EXPORT ADVICE
Looking to export? Your
Chamber team is here to help
Our experts can cut
through the jargon and
red tape and get your
paperwork in order
The Chamber’s knowledgeable team of
documentation experts can provide
support with a range of documents that
will enable your business to export goods
around the world.
We also offer training and advice to
support your teams and keep you up to
date with information that impacts how
you import and export.
Whether you are new to trading
TOP TIPS FROM THE CHAMBER
internationally or an experienced
exporter, we are here to help you export
your products with confidence.
Chamber members qualify for 50% off
a range of export documentation
services, so if you export regularly, being
a member of the Black Country Chamber
of Commerce can save you money.
How can the Chamber support your
business?
The Black Country Chamber’s Finance
and Export Documentation team has
knowledge of export documentation
requirements worldwide so can offer
advice and guidance wherever you are
exporting to.
Mandy Perry, Export Document Officer, says ...
Always approach the Chamber first if you are unsure about the
documents you need. Exporting can seem daunting, but we can help
demystify the jargon and support you through the process.
Our support is not just for people new to exporting. Legislation
changes all the time, so you need to keep up to date. Even those with
years of experience can find that they take a lot away from our training courses.
Incoterms play a very important part when accepting an order and using the
correct delivery terms can ensure that unnecessary costs and delays are limited.
Mandy Perry and Malcolm Reid have
both worked in the logistics departments
of manufacturing companies before
joining the Chamber, so have first-hand
experience of the export challenges
businesses face.
If you have a particularly challenging
query, the team have a close working
relationship with the Department for
Business and Trade and British
Chambers of Commerce, so will always
seek to find a solution to your problem.
What documentation can the Chamber
provide support with?
We can help you ensure the
documentation required for your exports
is in place, including UK Certificates of
Origin, Arab-British Certificates of Origin,
UK-EUR1 Movement Certificates and ATA
Carnets.
The documentation can be dependent
on the country you are sending goods to,
their value and sometimes individual
customer requirements.
The Chamber uses an electronic
certification system, which is user
friendly and accessible from anywhere in
the country. Our expert team can help
you register and guide you through the
process.
54 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

TOP TIPS FROM THE CHAMBER
Malcolm Reid, Export Document Officer, says ...
When you are new to exporting, it is important that the whole
business understands everything that’s involved. We recommend
offering training to colleagues across company functions like
purchasing, sales and finance as well as to your export team, as it
takes cross-departmental effort to get things right. For example, the
purchasing department need to know what information the export team requires
to prove the origin of goods, and the sales team need to be aware of all the
licences and certification required before they promise any products to
customers. If everyone knows what information is required from the start of the
export process, then internal procedures can be put in place to support this.
If you do not have the right paperwork, there is a risk of being fined by HMRC, or
your goods could be held in customs. You may also need specialist licences or
certificates to assist with clearance at the port of entry or exit.”
Do you have to be a member to use the
Chamber Documentation Service?
No, but members benefit from 50% off
the cost for certain export documents,
including certificates of origin and EUR1s.
For companies that export high volumes
of goods, the savings they make on
export documentation alone can make
Chamber membership worthwhile.
Can you provide relevant training?
The Chamber runs a variety of
international trade training courses,
including workshops on export
procedures and documentation,
Incoterms, letters of credit and import
procedures.
All courses are held online and
supporting materials are provided to
attendees after the session.
As well as standard courses, the
Chamber can also offer your organisation
bespoke in-house training with content
tailored to the specific documentation
and processes required for your
operation. Our trainers will be able to
answer any specialist queries during the
training sessions to ensure you receive
maximum benefit from this bespoke
service.
Members can attend training courses
at discounted rates. Bespoke in-house
courses are priced on application
How do I find out more?
An overview of our services can be found in the
International Trade section of our website.
What our members say
about the Chamber’s
export services
Tracey Williams, Shipping Manager at
Carpenter and Paterson Ltd:
“We provide pipe support solutions
worldwide, and use the Chamber as a
lot of the customers we supply require
compliant, attested documentation.
“The Chamber supports us with
certificates of origin and shipping
invoice attestations, and occasionally
we require embassy legalised
documents. The Chamber team is very
helpful in assisting us in this process,
offering invaluable support.
“If one-to-one advice is required, the
Chamber is very accessible and
responds quickly – a first-class service!”
Anthony Siverns, Production Planning
Co-ordinator, H&R ChemPharm (UK) Ltd:
“Two colleagues and I took a bespoke
training course by the Black Country
Chamber. It was very beneficial, covering
export and import procedures, customs
data, commodity codes, rules of origin,
the Customs Declaration Service and
numerous others.
“We would highly recommend this
informative bespoke training course.”
We have an international trade newsletter that members and non-members
can register for to keep up to date with legislation changes.
For further information, please call us on 0330 024 0820 or email
Improve your skills
with our special online
training sessions
Understanding Commodity Codes
Date: 3rd July
Time: 9.30am-1pm
Member rate: £200.00 + VAT.
Non-member rate: £250.00 +VAT
This digital session will provide a
comprehensive understanding of the
classification process and the tools
and strategies available to ensure
accuracy and compliance with
international trade regulations.
It will cover several key topics,
including an explanation of the
Harmonised System (HS) and its
global use, which will provide context
for understanding the importance of
accurate classification.
Delegates will also receive guidance
on the UK Global Tariff.
The course instructor, David
Hooper, brings extensive experience
in helping businesses navigate these
challenges, which will provide valuable
insight and practical guidance for all
attendees.
Import Procedure Training
Date: 10th September
Time: 9.30am-1pm
Member rate: £200.00 + VAT.
Non-member rate: £250.00 +VAT
This half-day digital session will
provide a better understanding of the
complex challenges of importing and
trading internationally, with practical
tips and advice to enable your
business to look at importing and
consider the implications of
compliance.
The learner will be able to
understand: Why we import; the cost
of importing; how to select the right
supplier; terms of payment; the
importance of Incoterms 2020;
transport documentation; HMRC
requirements; landed costs; and
import documentation.
“
Whether you are new to
trading internationally or an
experienced exporter, we are
here to help you export with
confidence.
“
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 55

EVENTS
The Chamber has a busy schedule of events planned for the coming months and we cannot wait
to see you join us! We have social events, networking opportunities and workshops among a host
of options for you to put in your calendar.
For more information on any event, please contact Marie Shuker, Events Officer on 0330 024 0820,
email events@blackcountrychamber.co.uk or go to www.blackcountrychamber.co.uk/events
Join us for a winning evening at the races
Date: 15th July
Venue: Wolverhampton Racecourse
Cost: Race table of 10 cost £1,850 + VAT.
Standard table of 10 cost £1,150 + VAT.
In celebration of this year’s Black Country
Day, we are delighted to be hosting a race
evening at Wolverhampton Racecourse.
Join us for an evening at the races and
mingle with Chamber members.
You and your guests will enjoy a
welcome drink followed by a three-course
meal with a choice of wine or beer on your
table.
As the races start, each guest will
receive a race day programme and take
their seats in our exclusive room
overlooking the finish line.
This year we will have a ‘tipster’ on
hand to guide us through the best bets
on each race.
In addition to standard tables, we have
six race tables with exclusive opportunities
to promote your business. Your branding
will be on the course screens and website
and a full page advert in the official race
day programme and form guide.
Branding will also appear in local and
national newspapers carrying the race
card and there will be a dedicated
Chamber press release announcing your
participation. Your race will be covered by
Sky Sports who will have a presenter
onsite during the evening, and guests will
have the opportunity to head to the
parade ring to see the ‘Best Turned Out’
before their race, as well as make the
winners’ presentation.
Platinum members MET Recruitment
pictured presenting a winner’s trophy
at last year’s race day at
Wolverhampton Racecourse
Women In Leadership: Me, Myself And I
Date: 4th July
Time: 11am-1pm
Venue: Technology Management,
St Mark’s Church, St Mark’s Road,
Wolverhampton WV3 0QH
Cost: £25
Journalist and television presenter Pip
Tomson will be joining us for our first
Women in Leadership event, entitled Me,
Myself and I.
Best known for her work with Good
Morning Britain and ITV News, Pip was
raised in Stourbridge and studied her A
levels in Tettenhall.
She trained as a journalist where her
first job was at Kidderminster Chronicle,
going on to become the chief reporter for
Pip
Tomson
the Express & Star in Wolverhampton at
the age of 23, before starting her TV
career at ITV’s Central News.
Throughout her career Pip has not
shied away from any opportunity to grab
a great story, whether that is sky diving
with the Army’s Red Devils parachute
team or rescuing stray dogs in South
Korea.
Pip will give us an exciting insight into
her career so far, proving that even with
imposter syndrome you can still succeed
in an amazing career.
As well as networking opportunities
and lunch, we will have a panel discussion
with speakers including BlackRook
Academy MD Lucy Rook, Chair of Women
in Leadership; Sian Roberts, Black
Country Chamber’s Sales and Marketing
Director; and Louise Fall, Vice Principal of
City of Wolverhampton College.
56 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Network with Black Country Business Club
Dates: 13th June, 27th June, 11th July,
25th July, 8th August, 22nd August,
5th September, 19th September:
Time: All 09.30am-10.30am
Venue: The Confederation Of British
Metalforming, 47 Birmingham Road,
West Bromwich, B70 6PY
The fortnightly Black Country Business
Club gives you the chance to build
business relationships and promote their
services or products to fellow group
members and its wider network of
business contacts.
The Club is exclusive to Chamber
members. However, you can visit twice as
a guest even if you are not a member.
Our member businesses are proud to
represent Sandwell, Walsall, Dudley and
Wolverhampton.
Come along, relax and network with
It’s Third Week Wednesday
networking in Walsall
The Chamber training and events
programme is being updated
all the time.
For the latest details, click here
our club members. We allow two
businesses from each sector/industry
and guests are allowed two visits before
we have an informal chat about applying
for membership.
Joining the Black Country Business
Club still works out much more
economical than joining a traditional
breakfast club, plus you get the huge
range of benefits open to Chamber
members.
• This is a face-to-face event. For
more details or your invitation,
contact Alison Trinder.
Call/text Alison on 07980 906921
or email here here:
Dates: 19th June, 17th July, 21st August, 18th September
Time: 9.45am-11.30am
Venue: Littleton Restaurant, Walsall College, Wisemore Campus, Littleton Street
West, WS2 8ES. Free parking available on site.
Each Third Week Wednesday, Chamber members and non-members meet for
FREE monthly networking sessions. As well as meeting like-minded local business
people, you can raise your business profile via your social media platforms while at
the event by tagging in the Chamber and the event.
Priority will be given to members where the event has reached capacity.
Further details will be sent out on the joining instructions. Book now here:
Tuck in to the
Big Business
@B63 Breakfast
Date: 3rd July
Time: 7.45am-9.45am
Venue: Halesowen College -
Bistro @B63, Whittingham Road,
Halesowen B63 3NA
Cost: Free
• Please note priority will be given to
members where the event has
reached capacity
There are limited spaces available for
this fantastic opportunity to network
with like-minded businesses every
month in the south of our region.
The Big Business @B63 ‘breakfast
event’ is hosted by Halesowen
College, sponsored by Halesowen BID
and powered by the Black Country
Chamber of Commerce.
Arrive with other businesses to
network in the Bistro at B63, grab a
drink then enjoy some short business
themed talks/updates in our adjoining
event seminar room.
Once the talks have completed,
return to the Bistro at B63 to meet
other delegates in an ‘open
networking’ environment, while
enjoying a complimentary vegan,
bacon, or sausage breakfast sandwich,
courtesy of the Halesowen BID.
To avoid disappointment you MUST
book your place on the Chamber
website (one delegate per member
business) as walk-ins could be refused
entry.
Free parking available in Carpark A
in front of the college.
For more information and to book a
place, email the Chamber
Network at Wolverhampton Wednesday business breakfasts
Dates: 26th June, 8.30am-10.30am,
28th August, 8am-10am
25th September, 9am-11am
Venue: City of Wolverhampton College,
Wellington Road Campus,
Wolverhampton WV14 6BT
31st July, 9am-11am
Venue: Wolves Foundation, Molineux
Stadium, Waterloo Road,
Wolverhampton WV1 4QR
Be part of this popular business
networking event in the heart of
Wolverhampton! Grab yourself a tea or
coffee, then enjoy an ‘open networking’
environment. To avoid disappointment,
book your place via the Chamber website.
Due to limited places only one delegate
per business please. For safeguarding
reasons you MUST book prior to the
event as we cannot accept walk-ins.
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 57

WOMEN IN LEADERSHIP
As the leading business support agency for the Black Country, the Chamber of Commerce is proud
to be a female-led organisation. We are playing our part in supporting the next generation of female
leaders, to create a fairer economy and unlock the potential of everyone, equally.
Chamber launches new-look Women
in Leadership Steering Group
BlackRook Academy Managing Director
Lucy Rook has been announced as the
new chair of the Black Country Chamber
Women in Leadership Steering Group.
Established in 2019, the Women in
Leadership network supports and
celebrates women in senior leadership
roles to inspire the next generation,
bringing together members from a
cross-section of sectors and membership
tiers.
As chair Lucy, MD of Platinum member
BlackRook, will direct activities while
overseeing the group to ensure that the
network acts in accordance with its aims
and objectives.
During her career as an editorial
manager, journalist and trainer, Lucy has
worked as a producer for some of
Britain’s most significant broadcast
brands including ITV Central’s
Breakfast Show, Daybreak and
Good Morning Britain. She brings
a wealth of knowledge and
experience to help promote and
champion the region’s success
stories.
Commenting on her new role,
Lucy Rook said: “I am truly
honoured and excited to be invited
to chair this group. The membership
offers such a breadth of experience.
Lucy
Rook
“I think my job as chair is to make sure
we capture the potential, that
combination of talent, and help focus
that on delivering something meaningful
from the time we spend together.
“Anyone who knows me, knows well
how big a champion I am of the Black
Country. I’m proudly Wolverhampton
born and bred and there’s just so
much that our region offers.
That’s why I was delighted to
read April’s iwoca female
founders research that
ranked Wolverhampton
as the best city to be a
female entrepreneur in
England.
“There are so many positives
and so much to go at as a
business community. We need to identify
and develop further opportunities and
support in every way we can.”
Chamber CEO Sarah Moorhouse
added: “We are thrilled to welcome Lucy
Rook as our Black Country Women in
Leadership Steering Group Chair.
“Lucy brings a wealth of experience
and enthusiasm to the group and we look
Celebrating female start-ups success
To mark Women’s History Month 2024,
the Chamber highlighted career stories
of female entrepreneurs and business
owners who received support from the
Chamber Start-Up Business Club.
Their stories were shared across social
media and on the Chamber website. Those
featured included Lucy Cashmore,
owner of 2023 Chamber start-up award
winner Daniel-Scott Recruitment.
Lucy encouraged other women to run
their own firms. She said: “My advice to
young girls and women looking to start
their own business would be DO IT!
There is so much more support, advice
and activity these days, and you are as
good as if not better than your male
counterpart.”
Carolyn Smith, Managing Director of
design agency TPSquared Ltd, said:
“Say yes to every opportunity and don’t
be afraid to fail.”
Laura Fox, owner of Fox HR, said:
“You’ll never be 100% certain, but a
calculated risk and a bit of self-belief
goes a long way.”
Lianne Wright, who runs virtual
assistant business Wright Choice, said:
“When I started, I felt a little like a duck
out of water, but my passion drove me to
fight through this. Women in business
are getting the respect and recognition
they deserve.”
Shardia O’Connor launched Shades
of Reality (SOR) in 2021. She said: “We
are seeing more women-led businesses,
and that keeps me optimistic about the
future for female entrepreneurs.”
Charlotte Davies, of Charlotte the
Copywriter said: “The big wins get all the
attention but it’s the hard work behind
the scenes when no one is watching that
leads to long-term success.”
Finally, Wendy Powis of WM
Bookkeeping said: “Being a woman in
business has allowed me to connect
with and inspire others.”
Alison Trinder with Lynne Thomas
Introducing... the
business builder!
We are pleased to announce that we have
partnered with Lynne Thomas of The
Business Builder, who will be working with
us on the Black Country Chamber Start-Up
Business Club. We look forward to sharing
more details in the next issue of Prosper.
To learn more about the support that the
Chamber can offer start-up businesses,
contact Alison Trinder, Start Up
Business Account Manager, here:
58 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

forward to working with her as we launch
an exciting calendar of events for the
network.
“This is a great opportunity for member
businesses to step forward and sponsor
the group for their chance to be part of an
inspirational network, raising the profile
of women across the Black Country.”
Call for sponsors
The Chamber is now calling on
businesses to join Lucy in raising the
profile of regional female leaders by
sponsoring Black Country Women in
Leadership 2024.
Sponsors will support Lucy as we look
to guide, inspire, and raise the profile of
women across the region. Sponsors of
the Women in Leadership Network 2023
were Balfour Beatty, Forresters, HSBC
UK and Midlands Engine Investment
Fund (MEIF).
Sponsorship benefits
Sponsors will benefit from a dedicated
social media post announcing your
support as a sponsor, inclusion in a
full-page Women in Leadership feature in
Prosper and branding on the Chamber
website across all communications
relating to the Women in Leadership
Network 2024.
In addition, sponsors will have the
opportunity to speak as part of a panel
discussion at the Women in Leadership
event.
If you would like to sponsor Black
Country Women in Leadership 2024,
please email Marie Shuker,
Events & Projects Officer, here:
“
I was delighted to read
that Wolverhampton is the
best city to be a female
entrepreneur in England.
There are so many positives
and so much to go at as a
business community.
“
TV star Amber helps mark
International Women’s Day
Chamber apprentice content
creator and digital illustrator
Owenia Francis writes...
On 8th March, Black Country Chamber
hosted an International Women’s Day
lunch, bringing together influential
women across a wide range of industries
in our region and inviting discussion on
this year’s theme #InspireInclusion.
Held at the Mount Country Manor
Hotel, the event gave female leaders
the opportunity to share best practice
in areas such as recruitment,
supporting female talent of all ages,
identifying the barriers and advocating
change in the workplace and beyond.
Our guest speaker was Amber Sandhu,
BBC News Reporter and all-round
ambassador for the Midlands, who gave
an incredible presentation on her
career and the many women who
inspired her along the way.
Starting her journey with her local
Wolves Community Radio, Amber has
since progressed to working freelance
across the BBC, covering the Premier
League for Sky Sports News, becoming
the lead reporter for Midlands Today
and covering the Birmingham
Commonwealth Games as well as
reporting on men’s and women’s cricket.
Amber, who also hosts her Saturday
show on the BBC Asian Network, said:
“I started as an intern. I was young and
got to meet great people and learn from
some of the best. I’m in the place I
wanted to be, and I never looked back.
She name checked the women who
had inspired her: “Satnam Rana, Seema
Jaswal, Anita Rani, the Lionesses, Isa
Speaker Amber Sandhu (right)
with Gail Arnold, Sian Roberts
and Sarah Moorhouse
Guha, the India cricket team. All women
who have had different challenges and
excelled in their respective industries.”
She paid tribute to her family –
“wonderful ladies in my life who let me
believe I could do anything and really
inspired me. My nan came over from
India during partition, my mum grew up
in Birmingham and my sisters all inspire
me in different ways.”
Black Country Chamber CEO Sarah
Moorhouse said: “Women continue to
face barriers when seeking leadership
roles. By championing inclusion,
organisations and communities can
harness the full potential of diverse
perspectives, leading to better
decision-making and innovation.
“As always education and awareness
play vital roles in fostering inclusion and
empowering women. Through initiatives
such as mentorship programmes,
educational workshops, and advocacy
campaigns, individuals and
organisations can create opportunities
for women to thrive.
“By providing support and resources,
women can be empowered to
overcome obstacles and achieve their
full potential.”
Smiles: Pictured at the IWD event are
Chamber staff, from left: Stephanie
Sullivan, Owenia Francis, Marie Shuker,
Gail Arnold, Sian Roberts and Sarah
Moorhouse
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 59

BUSINESS SUPPORT
Chamber programmes support next gen
entrepreneurs as they push for growth
Start-up businesses in Walsall and
Wolverhampton have received expert
support to shape their growth plans from
the Black Country Chamber of Commerce.
The Chamber, as the leading regional
support agency for local businesses, is
helping new and growing businesses on
behalf of Walsall Council and City of
Wolverhampton Council after two
successful tender bids.
Support is offered through its Start-Up
Business Support Programmes,
launched in 2018 to provide platforms
and opportunities for new company
owners, with the aim of growing the
economy and creating job opportunities.
The three-stage programmes kick off
with a two-hour engagement and
awareness seminar introducing the
opportunities and challenges of setting
up a business. Entrepreneurs then
receive an intensive two-day training
course focusing on business planning,
finances, bookkeeping, sales and
marketing, branding and social media
platforms, followed by a one-to-one
review of their business plan, identifying
any further tailored support required.
The Start-Up Business Club team draw
on their experience of providing a
supportive environment and valuable
connections including a dedicated
business relationship manager.
Want to join the
next group?
To join future cohorts of start-ups,
contact Alison Trinder, Start-Up
Business Account Manager via email
or visit the Chamber website
Wolverhampton Start-Up
Business Support Programme
Under the City of Wolverhampton
Council’s ‘Our City Our Plan’ strategy,
the Chamber’s Start-Up Business
Support Programme is offering local
firms in the early stages of
development a suite of activities to
help them start up, scale up and thrive.
Funded by the Government through
the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, the
start-up programme, which will run until
March 2025, aims to boost the range of
the city’s new enterprises, from sole
traders to SMEs.
The first two cohorts were completed
by 64 attendees, and 46 have already
signed up to the next two.
The third cohort gets under way in
June, with places still available for the
fourth group, which begins on 3rd July.
A fifth programme will kick off on 2nd
October.
Alison Trinder, Start-Up Business
Account Manager, said: “We have
received fantastic feedback from the
businesses, who appreciate the range of
support the programme offers.
“We are pleased to be working with a
host of partners who bring different
aspects of expertise to share on the key
issues which all businesses face.
“These have included YMCA Black
Country, IGNITE, Wolves FC and
University of Wolverhampton Science
Park. They have all given our programme
cohorts a chance to share experiences
and prepare for growth.”
60 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

Walsall Start-Up Business Support Programme
Following a successful tender, the
Chamber provided advice and support
to young businesses on behalf of Walsall
Council, as it looks to grow the town’s
economy.
The Business Growth Walsall
programme, held during the spring,
allowed local residents to get specialist
support to engage and access skills to
plan, begin and thrive in business.
Of the 29 people to attend, 16 have
registered their company and are now
trading, having been assisted to register
their business or offered help with
growth plans, sales and marketing.
Of the remaining 13, 11 were at the
pre-start stage and were given
appropriate support, while the other two
have gone into education.
Alison Trinder said: “It has been great
to help so many new businesses in
Walsall move through the launch stages
through delivery of the programme on
behalf of Walsall Council.
“
It has been fantastic
to see more than half
the group register their
companies and go on
to trade, having had
support in preparing
the key areas which
every business needs
to consider.
“
Alison Trinder
“It has been fantastic to see more than
half the group register their companies
and go on to trade, having had support in
preparing the key areas which every
business needs to consider.
“We are exploring opportunities to
build upon the progress by the Walsall
programme to give more business
owners a better understanding of the
opportunities available to them to plan
each stage of their company’s
development.”
“
We have
received fantastic
feedback from the
businesses, who
appreciate the
range of support
the programme
offers... partners
have brought
different aspects of
expertise to share
“
PROSPER SUMMER 2024 61

CHAMBER TRAINING PROGRAMME
Latest cohort embarks on Chamber’s
Management Development Programme
Individuals looking to develop their
management skills and gain valuable
tools to take back to the workplace have
embarked on the Black Country
Chamber of Commerce Management
Development Programme.
Now on its 13th cohort, the latest
Management Development Programme
(MDP) kicked off in March and saw 17
delegates from across various sectors
begin the 12-month, in person workshops.
The programme is designed to build a
comprehensive toolkit which can be used
by participants who are either in a
management role currently or aiming to
be in a management position in the future.
Black Country Chamber of Commerce
Finance Assistant and Export
Documents Officer Mandy Perry
completed the Management
Development Programme in 2023, and
comments on her experience:
“I’m often asked if you need to be a
manager to join the Management
Development Programme and the simple
answer is no!
“The course is ideal for those in
management roles but it is also a great
learning experience for people who are
aiming to be managers in the future or
those who are responsible for managing
processes and not necessarily people.
“In completing the course myself, I
found that in addition to practical skills, I
built confidence, became more selfaware
of my own management style and
really benefitted from spending time with
a diverse group of people to share ideas
and experiences.”
The MDP guides participants through a
holistic and immersive journey of
development, building personal skills
COURSE MODULES
such as confidence, communication and
coaching in addition to practical tools
such as time management, leadership
styles and presentation skills.
Delegates benefit from 12 in-person
group sessions and have the opportunity
to network and share best practice with
others from across a broad spectrum of
job roles and sectors.
Samantha Fairclough, HR Officer from
Hill and Smith Infrastructure Ltd, is
currently on the programme. She said: “I
would absolutely recommend the MDP to
others. I love the approach to the training,
and the fact they cater for all learning
styles.
“My aim was to learn more about
myself, but also to be able to think more
strategically, as we tend to have a lot of
involvement with this naturally in my role
day-to-day.
“I have learned that questioning the
status quo is okay! For the most part,
things I am already doing (including my
thought process) I am heading in the right
direction.”
Jake Nicholls, Technical Services
Specialist from Metallisation Ltd, is on
the latest Management Development
Programme cohort and shares his aims
for the course: “I have no management
experience, so I hope to develop a strong
foundation to prepare me for a successful
career in the future.
“So far the course has opened my eyes
to the world of management and the
techniques I can use.”
Ellie Emery, Junior Operations
Manager at Erodex UK Ltd, shared her
thoughts on what she would like to
achieve from the course: “I’m hoping to
gain skills, knowledge, and tools to
manage different individuals and teams.
So far the modules have made me feel
more confident in my ability and pushed
me to manage better.”
If you would like to register
your interest for our next
Management Development
Programme, starting on
17th September, book at:
The Management Development Programme consists of 12
whole day sessions covering a management theme or topic:
n What is a manager? Introduction to management
and the manager’s role
n Using your time effectively and efficiently
n Communication and delivery of the right messages
at the right times
n Styles and dynamics which create a good team
n Getting the most from meetings
n Delivering a great presentation which gets the right results
n Building commercial awareness and acumen
n Preparation and successful management of change
n Stakeholder and relationship mapping and management
n How to run and deliver a project well
n Getting the best from your team and helping them
to perform better
n Coaching and developing your teams and people.
For more details, email or call 0330 024 0820,
or see the Chamber website
62 PROSPER SUMMER 2024

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West Bromwich -
9-11 Bull St, West Bromwich B70 6EU
0121 500 5161
Dudley
Ground Floor, Trafalgar House, King Street, Dudley DY2 8PS
01384 211 181
Walsall
Anchor Road, Aldridge, Walsall WS9 8PT
01922 451 818
Wolverhampton
83 Darlington Street, Wolverhampton WV1 4JD
01902 772 222