Time Out: Paul Ince, CEO of LikeMind Media

Tess Egginton
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Time Out: Paul Ince, CEO of LikeMind Media
It’s Friday, and the weekend is just around the corner. That means it is time to kick up your feet and relax with some quick fire questions. This ‘Time Out’ features Paul Ince, CEO of Loughborough content marketing consultancy LikeMind Media, who in another life might have been a war correspondent. What is the first thing you do to get the weekend started? I try not to work Fridays but, like many business owners, I’m never really away so I try and taper the start by winding down, getting any admin out of the way and taking a deep breath. What is your hobby? I love podcasting and creating content so, even though it’s a large part of my day to day role, I get huge enjoyment from creating content that isn’t marketing related. What is your favourite movie? The Matrix (only the first film, the rest I’m not bothered by). If you hadn’t been successful at what you do, what would you be doing instead as a career? I always wanted to be a war correspondent. There seems to be plenty of scope for that these days sadly! If you could have any superpower, what would it be? Sorting out fair provision of public services without people complaining about where the money is coming from. A tall order. What is your secret talent? Poetry. What is your favourite genre of music? House music all night long. If you could travel to any moment in time, where would you go? Probably either visiting Ancient Greece or the Mayan era.

EarthSense appoints new people and place manager

Tess Egginton
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EarthSense appoints new people and place manager
EarthSense, the air quality expert based at Space Park Leicester, has appointed Maria Cowles as its new people and place manager to oversee the human resources function for the company’s 28 staff. In her new role, Maria will be responsible for aligning EarthSense’s people strategy with its commercial activities. She will focus on staff retention, training, development and mediation. This will include managing the company’s onboarding experience for new staff, developing systems for working with stakeholders and enhancing the working environment for all employees. Maria has reached the level 5 qualification with the Chartered Institute of Personnel and Development (CIPD) and is also a Mental Health First Aider. Prior to joining EarthSense, Maria worked at Pick Everard as the lead people and culture business partner and human resources business partner. Previously, she was a human resources generalist at UAV Tactical Systems Limited. Commenting on her new appointment, Maria said: “Effective HR plans can make a real difference to the experience of the company’s most valuable asset – its people. It’s vital to recruit good staff, to retain them and help them to develop in their roles. We need to match and exceed the expectations of our people, keep them engaged and build relationships. “I’m passionate about finding solutions to deliver the right tools, environment and people, and hope to achieve that in my new role with EarthSense.”

New CEO at Northamptonshire charity

Tess Egginton
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New CEO at Northamptonshire charity
An award-winning not-for-profit champion has been appointed as the new chief executive officer at Northamptonshire charity, Cynthia Spencer Hospice. Asma Maya Joseph-Hussain has worked in the not-for-profit sector for more than 20 years, with influential roles at renowned international non-governmental organisation Save the Children, plus top level positions at popular local organisations MK Community Foundation, where she was deputy chief executive, and Willen Hospice, as director of development. The 46-year-old mother-of-three also spent a secondment period with the Disasters Emergency Committee, which she describes as a “fascinating” time in her colourful career. Maya, as she prefers to be known, comes to Cynthia Spencer Hospice following a nearly five-year stint as CEO at the Safety Centre charity, and was recently awarded the Women Leaders Award 2025 for Community Impact. She said: “The work of the hospice itself brought me here. I have worked in a hospice before and seen first-hand the difference it makes and the ripple effect it has in the community. When I saw the job advertised, I thought it was the right time and the right fit for me. “As a local resident I want to make sure my loved ones continue to have incredible, accessible, high-quality care in their community.” Maya plans to do this by working closely with the wider Cynthia Spencer Hospice team and has already moved out of her individual office to hot desk with her team. “Building positive working relationships is so important,” she said. “Everyone has been so incredibly welcoming, supportive and approachable, plus so passionate about the care the hospice is giving. “The common thread is that we all care about hospice services in our community. Going forward I plan to spend quality time with staff and volunteers to understand the organisation and identify opportunities as we go on this journey of growth and transformation.” Maya also plans to collaborate with the charity’s clinical colleagues at the hospice and sister facility Cransley Hospice to sustain and grow palliative care in line with the needs of the Northamptonshire community, as well as raise as much money as possible to support hospice services. Maya said: “There are numerous challenges. We need to raise a significant amount of money to keep hospice services growing, but we recognise we are in a difficult and uncertain financial climate. “I’m a glass half full kind of person always seeking out opportunities. “Hospice care is so needed. It should be high quality and accessible to all. It’s so transformative for patients, families and loved ones and you can’t replicate that anywhere else so we must do all we can to protect it. I would like to thank everyone who has generously raised funds, and I ask that you continue to support us to deliver much needed hospice care in our county. “The world can be incredibly turbulent and working together shows what a difference communities can make.”

Companies embrace four-day workweek after successful trials

April Lara
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Companies embrace four-day workweek after successful trials

Seventeen companies in the UK that participated in a six-month trial of a four-day working week have decided to make the model permanent, following notable gains in staff well-being, mental health, and productivity. The trial, which involved nearly 1,000 employees across various sectors, was organised by the 4 Day Week Foundation and studied by Boston College.

During the trial, participating businesses reduced work hours without cutting pay. Twelve companies adopted the four-day week permanently, while five opted for a “nine-day fortnight,” offering employees every other Friday off. The companies ranged from housing associations to professional bodies, with team sizes varying from under five employees to more than 400.

Research showed significant benefits for workers, with 62% reporting less frequent burnout, 41% seeing improved mental health, and 45% expressing greater life satisfaction. Businesses also saw positive changes in recruitment, retention, and employee morale.

The success of the trial has led to the permanent adoption of the model by over 235 UK businesses, supporting more than 6,000 employees. Advocates believe the growing interest signals a shift towards wider acceptance, with businesses balancing productivity gains against improved work-life balance.

Watches of Switzerland reports record revenue but profit dip

April Lara
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Watches of Switzerland reports record revenue but profit dip

Watches of Switzerland has announced a record revenue of £1.65bn for the year ending April 27, marking a 7% increase from the previous year. However, profit before tax decreased by 18%, falling to £76m.

The US market proved to be the main growth driver, with revenues climbing by 16%, compared to a modest 2% growth in the UK. Despite a challenging previous year, the UK market showed signs of recovery.

The company attributes its performance to its strong business model and strategic partnerships with leading luxury watch and jewellery brands. Its US business reached a significant milestone, surpassing $1bn in revenue for the first time, supported by the recent acquisition of Roberto Coin Inc.

The UK market has stabilised, and trading conditions have improved, contributing to the overall growth. The company’s performance underscores its leadership in the luxury goods sector.

Child exploitation charity moves to new safe haven

Tess Egginton
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Child exploitation charity moves to new safe haven
Safe and Sound, a specialist charity in Derbyshire dedicated to supporting young people impacted by child exploitation, has relocated to a newly purchased and refurbished city centre building at Bold Lane. This landmark move from their previous Darley Abbey premises marks a pivotal moment for the charity, enabling a significant upscale in facilities and capacity to meet the surging demand for its vital services. The charity’s CEO Tracy Harrison, outlined the critical importance of this expansion in the face of a rapidly accelerating and complex problem. “The doubling of referrals since the pandemic underscores a stark reality – child exploitation knows no boundaries of age, gender, or family background. “Previously our rented premises in Darley Abbey constrained our capacity, limiting both our team’s workspace and our ability to deliver an expanding programme of vital activities, support, and therapies essential for helping young people and their families move forward.” Tracy continued: “The Bold Lane premises represent a transformative step. This amazing community asset will dramatically increase our impact by providing a centrally located, safe, and welcoming sanctuary for vulnerable children and their families.” Featuring a new family kitchen, dedicated relaxation areas, and diverse activity stations, the facility at Bold Lane provides a comprehensive and welcoming space for young people and families to access essential help and support. Safe and Sound extended its gratitude to Armsons Barlow, Davlyn Construction and all individuals and organisations who contributed to this significant achievement. Tracy said: “I am particularly grateful for the support shown by fellow professionals who have recognised the value that Safe and Sound brings to our city and county, and who have provided us with their expertise to enable us to secure this purchase and transform it into this exceptional new facility. We also received significant funding from the government’s Community Ownership fund for which we are also grateful.” This strategic relocation will enable Safe and Sound to significantly enhance its comprehensive services, delivering vital support, therapies, and a secure environment to young people and families whose lives have been profoundly affected by exploitation.

Kennelpak faces administration, resulting in job losses

April Lara
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Kennelpak faces administration, resulting in job losses

Kennelpak, a pet products wholesaler and manufacturer, has entered administration, leading to the loss of 51 jobs. The company, backed by private equity firm Endless, called in administrators Kerry Bailey and Mark Thornton from BDO on 3 July.

The administrators swiftly concluded a sale of the Yakers brand, including its stock and assets, to Assisi Pet Care, securing the positions of two staff members. While this deal helped preserve part of the business, the remaining assets are now being reviewed for potential sale.

Despite reporting an increase in turnover, from £33.8m to £37.1m, and returning to profitability, Kennelpak was unable to overcome its financial difficulties, ultimately leading to the redundancy of 51 employees. The administrators are assisting affected workers with redundancy claims.

Highlight responsible businesses at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

Tess Egginton
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Highlight responsible businesses at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025
On Thursday 2nd October, East Midlands Business Link’s prestigious Bricks Awards will take place at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, celebrating the region’s property and construction industry. The annual event recognises development projects, businesses, and people in commercial and public building across the region – from office, industrial and residential schemes, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. With nominations closing on Friday 15th August, 10 categories are available to enter. Don’t miss out on this opportunity to showcase your projects and team, reward their hard work, and boost morale. Amongst this year’s categories is Responsible Business of the Year, which can be entered here. The winner of this award will have demonstrated corporate responsibility in their field, working in harmony and for the betterment of the local community in which it operates and setting a shining example for the rest of the supply chain. It’s completely free to submit a nomination and making the top three finalists in your category also wins you free tickets to the awards ceremony. Last year the award was won by Stepnell Ltd, with Cawarden and Cora runners up. Tom Sewell, regional director at Stepnell, said: “Winning the Responsible Business Award at the 2024 East Midlands Bricks Awards was an incredibly proud moment for the Nottingham team at Stepnell, recognising our dedication to responsible practices and commitment to sustainable development in the region. “The awards are a fantastic opportunity to connect with others in the industry and celebrate regional excellence. I would wholeheartedly encourage business from across the East Midlands property and construction landscape to get involved.” With this year’s Responsible Business of the Year award sponsored by Wright Vigar, Tom Maxwell, marketing manager at Wright Vigar, said: “We’re proud to be sponsoring the Responsible Business category at this year’s Bricks Awards. Supporting this initiative reflects our belief that long-term success in business goes hand-in-hand with integrity, sustainability, and community impact. “We’re looking forward to celebrating the outstanding achievements of property and construction professionals across the region and encourage businesses of all sizes to put themselves forward.” Submit your nominations for Responsible Business of the Year here, before entries close on Friday 15th August. Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 2nd October, at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground (4:30pm – 7:30pm) – an evening also offering an opportunity to establish new connections with property and construction professionals from across the region, and hear from keynote speaker Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands. Other award categories open for entry include: Most Active Agent, Developer of the Year, Sustainable Development of the Year, Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Deal of the Year, Architects of the Year, Excellence in Design, and Residential Development of the Year. All entry forms can be accessed here. The Overall Winner award will also be presented at the event. This award cannot be entered, with the winner selected from those nominated for the event’s other awards. The Overall Winner of the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 will also receive a grand prize of a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000, with the opportunity to split or gift the marketing to a charity of your choice.
 

The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025

What: The East Midlands Bricks Awards 2025 When: Thursday 2nd October (4.30pm – 7.30pm) Where: Derek Randall Suite, Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, Nottingham Keynote speaker: Councillor Nadine Peatfield – Leader of Derby City Council, Cabinet Member for City Centre, Regeneration, Strategy and Policy, and Deputy Mayor of the East Midlands Tickets: Available here Dress code: Standard business attire Thanks to our sponsors:                                                                        

To be held at:

Accelerator programme boosts growth for 5,000 East Midlands firms

April Lara
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Accelerator programme boosts growth for 5,000 East Midlands firms

A total of 4,790 businesses across Derbyshire, Nottinghamshire, and Leicester have received support from an initiative designed to foster innovation, growth, and sustainability. The programme, launched in 2023 by East Midlands Chamber and funded by the UK Shared Prosperity Fund (UKSPF), aims to help firms scale and navigate the challenges of modern business environments.

The initiative, which operates on behalf of local authorities in Derby, Leicester, and Nottinghamshire, has already led to the creation of 143 new businesses, the safeguarding of 505 jobs, and the creation of 598 new roles. Additionally, 401 companies have introduced new products, technologies, and processes, significantly improving their competitive edge. Several firms have also increased their export capability as part of the programme.

The Accelerator Programme, which offers expert business advice, grants, growth vouchers for technology investment, decarbonisation support, and sustainability workshops, has been extended until March 2025. Erewash businesses will also be included after joining the initiative.

For businesses looking to scale, the High Growth Accelerator provides tailored support, while those with international trade ambitions can benefit from the Export Accelerator. Businesses interested in the programme can register online to access one-on-one advice and explore the various support services available.

Chesterfield businesses focus on skills and innovation to boost the visitor economy

April Lara
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Chesterfield businesses focus on skills and innovation to boost the visitor economy

Chesterfield’s visitor economy continues to grow, but business leaders are calling for further investment in skills and innovation to ensure its long-term success.

At a recent roundtable event hosted by Destination Chesterfield, local business, tourism, and heritage leaders met to address challenges and explore how the region can nurture the next generation of hospitality and cultural professionals.

A key issue discussed was the shortage of skilled workers in certain areas of the sector, particularly in technical roles like chefs and kitchen staff. Industry leaders emphasized the importance of encouraging more young people to pursue these roles as a rewarding career path.

Regional efforts are being made to support local businesses through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, which provides mentoring, coaching, and practical support. Over 100 Chesterfield businesses have benefited from this initiative, with significant results including the creation of new jobs and the adoption of new technologies.

The roundtable participants also highlighted the importance of early work experience opportunities for young people, which can serve as a powerful recruitment tool. Many agreed that connecting businesses with schools before students make career choices could help build a pipeline of talent for the industry.

Additionally, the conversation turned to the role of digital tools and AI in supporting business growth. While AI holds potential for marketing, customer insights, and data-driven decision-making, industry leaders noted that human connection remains irreplaceable in hospitality and tourism.

The event concluded with a consensus on the importance of collaboration and continuous support for training and development to help businesses thrive in an increasingly competitive environment.

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