Are we facing a meteoric rise in mediocrity? By James Pinchbeck, partner at Streets Chartered Accountants
James Pinchbeck, partner at Streets Chartered Accountants, considers how career progression has changed.
How often, especially if you are on LinkedIn, have you seen a post or received news that someone you know has been promoted? How often does such promotion seem to be a somewhat significant step up or change from an existing role? Whilst a career trajectory from assistant to a C suite role in a matter of a few years might seem unplausible, it does seem increasingly possible.
It seems gone are the days that one’s career progression is based on a number, if not many, years of work and being mentored and supported by a more senior person, with such progression dependent even on the retirement of the person in the role above.
Certainly, such advancement was inevitably based on past performance, a track record and achievements. It might be said that people had to earn their stripes and prove their worth.
Why then might we be seeing more fast-tracked careers?
Perhaps one, if not the key reason, for seeing such changes is the phenomenal pace of change we are all facing not just in our work lives but in our personal lives. Change in what work we do, the way we work and for who we do that work would appear constant and perhaps even unrelenting. As a result, having a job or role that involves you doing the same thing for many years has been jettison to the history books. We need and quest as businesses new ideas, skills and techniques which invariably means new team members.
We have also seen, not least on the back of the pandemic, an increase in those opting for earlier retirement, which along with the fact that long lengths of service are perhaps a thing of the past, has meant that organisations have had to possibly bring people on sooner.
What then is the impact on our work or the work we do?
Whilst in the past you might recruit someone to fill a defined role based on an understanding of what the role requires it would seem organisations are having to recruit roles that are subject to constant change, even with a risk of being defunct. It is then often difficult to determine what is required in the roles, both in term of experience and skills, even attitudes.
In the past you may have recruited for a role based on an individual’s past performance. In the new order it would seem we are having to recruit more on the basis of potential achievement or the ability to make things happen as opposed a person’s track record.
The speed of change also impacts how we recruit to fill roles, perhaps with a need to fill vacancies more with people that can adapt and respond, even thrive to change. It would also seem that we need to review roles more frequently to ensure that they are aligned to the needs of the organisation.
Perhaps one of the biggest challenges though is measuring the performance of work colleagues. In the past the repetitive nature of work, year on year, meant it was easier to assess the productivity and impact of team members. Line managers had a good grasp on what was required in terms of the contribution and value of their staff.
However it does seem, not least where we take people on that bring new skills and techniques to an organisation, increasingly challenging to measure outcomes and performance. Many employers are now facing situations where they are bringing staff in who have skills, knowledge and experience that they don’t.
In light of this background, it would appear business leaders are undoubtedly facing an unprecedented challenge around determining workforce requirements, recruitment, ensuring productivity and measuring performance. Perhaps of real concern is that no longer is past performance an indicator of future outcomes and we are increasingly reliant on the skills and attitudes of colleagues, along with our own ability to adapt to and even embrace change if we are to thrive and succeed.
See this column in the November issue of East Midlands Business Link Magazine here.
Leicester training project boosts skills of people facing homelessness
People facing homelessness are getting the chance to equip themselves with new skills and job opportunities in a project run by Leicester City Council and a charity.
The St Mungo’s Multi Skills Centre opened its doors just over a year ago to offer training and help to people who are at risk of homelessness or already homeless.
The hub, which is based at Leicester City Council’s Construction Training Centre of Excellence, on Beaumont Leys Lane, can accommodate eight students who learn and train in a variety of skills including plumbing, carpentry, tiling, painting and decorating.
It enables them to work towards a basic qualification, and also to have the opportunity to work with the council’s housing voids and repairs teams, gaining practical workplace experience.
Over the last year, the centre has worked with 18 people from the homeless community, four of which have already completed their Open College Network (OCN) qualifications in Multi Skills Trades.
As well as being a place to learn new skills, the centre also provides a vital connection for people to start to recover from the trauma of homelessness. Staff help the students to rebuild their confidence to allow them to start re-engaging with their communities and the workplace, thereby improving their future prospects.
The centre runs every Monday to Wednesday, from 10am to 3pm, with lunch and travel costs provided.
St Mungo’s is a leading homelessness charity, which works in partnership with local authorities, health colleagues and communities, to end homelessness and rebuild lives.
Nationally last year it supported almost 28,000 people who were homeless, or at risk of homelessness, through 164 services. The charity’s work means that more than 2,700 people have somewhere safe to stay every night.
St Mungo’s also offer employment and educational support across Leicester, including an allotment in Highfields providing a safe outdoor space for clients to grow their own fruit and vegetables.
Leicester deputy city mayor for housing, Cllr Elly Cutkelvin, said: “St Mungo’s is a well-respected national charity working with homeless people, and this joint project with them is a valuable way to help people to develop new skills and qualifications, to help them improve their mental health and life prospects.
“In the year since it opened its doors, it’s engaged with 18 people who are either at risk from homelessness or already homeless. The fact four of those have now gained some new practical qualifications is a real achievement and a big step forward towards a brighter future.
“By working with our housing repairs and voids team, they can put those skills to use in a real-life setting and gain valuable work experience too.”
One of the learners helped by the scheme said: “When I was a student at St Mungo’s, I learned new skills and met new people which really helped with my confidence after my time rough sleeping on the city streets.
“I am thankful for the support and encouragement St Mungo’s has given me and with this, I have been successful in getting a full-time job. This is the start of great things for me.”
St Mungo’s Leicester service manager, Gray Duguid, added: “Our ongoing partnership with Leicester City Council is making fundamental and direct impacts on the homeless community in Leicester.
“The opportunities the council are offering in terms of a place to learn and practical job placements is allowing people to see a future beyond the street.”
O’Brien Contractors win third contract at major Nottingham development
O’Brien Contractors has won its third contract with Clowes Developments, working as the principal contractor on the delivery of essential highway infrastructure works in Fairham, a new £800 million mixed-used development in Nottinghamshire.
Following the success of two previous contracts for the completion of development phases two and three, the newest contract will see the completion of the fourth stage of the £100 million infrastructure improvements to the 606-acre site.
Previous works on the site have included improving public access through the reconfiguration of Clifton Park & Ride with a new dual access road and a roundabout, plus a number of additional roads and access routes.
The next phase of work will involve the construction of new roads, footpaths, and cycleways to allow access to the site as the later phases of the development begin. Upon completion, the scheme will provide new employment opportunities, 3,000 new homes and 200 acres of green space.
Tom O’Brien, director at O’Brien Contractors, said: “We are extremely pleased to have secured a third contract with Clowes Developments. The routes are taking shape and allowing access to new areas of the development, it is great to work on this exciting project and to see the masterplan coming to life. Once again, this is a brilliant reflection of the consistency of our team and the standards O’Brien Contractors offers.”
Ali Malik, director at Clowes Developments, said: “The decision to work with O’Brien Contractors on the third phase of works is a direct result of the success of our two previous projects. The team has proven to us that they are more than capable of handling the job and we trust them to deliver the project on time. It is great to have them on board for the next stage of this major development in the Nottinghamshire area.”
Shorts make audit and accounts director promotion
Shorts have promoted Kirstie Wilson to the position of audit and accounts director with immediate effect.
Since joining Shorts in 2016 as an audit and accounts senior, Kirstie has earned promotions to manager in 2018 and then senior manager in 2021.
Her progression to director is testament to her exemplary skills and continued commitment to excellence, and to the active role she has played in the development of the corporate team during that time.
On confirming her promotion, audit and accounts partner Howard Freeman said: “Kirstie’s promotion is very much deserved, and she has worked hard to achieve it.
“As director, Kirstie will take on the role of engagement leader on a portfolio of our clients, will hold responsible individual (RI) status, and in due course will be able to sign audit reports on behalf of the firm, in addition to leading non-audit work. A fantastic achievement, as Kirstie will be the first non-partner to hold this position in Shorts.
“She will also take on the role of engagement leader for most of our charity clients, having obtained the ICAEW Diploma in Charity Accounting earlier this year.”
Kirstie said: “I am delighted to have been promoted to audit and accounts director at Shorts, and I’m proud to take the next step on my professional journey. Shorts provide an excellent environment for learning and development, and my promotion demonstrates the genuine commitment within the firm to support the team with structured career paths.
“I am very much looking forward to working with existing and future clients and helping to contribute to the continued success of the firm.”
Kirstie is a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants and holds a Diploma in Charity Accounting. She is a Xero certified adviser, proficient in many cloud-based accounting systems, such as Xero and Sage and has experience working with both incorporated and unincorporated businesses.
In December 2022 Kirstie was also appointed the youngest ever trustee at Ashgate Hospice.
Key site acquired for regeneration to deliver much needed Northampton homes
Plans to transform one of Northampton’s largest derelict sites and provide much-needed housing are set to move forward as West Northamptonshire Council (WNC) has now bought the former St James’ Depot.
The Council has completed on the purchase of the site totalling 4.5 acres and will now carry out the necessary steps to ensure the area benefits from regeneration to meet the needs of the local community.
The site to the west of Northampton town centre has stood vacant for more than a decade. The future scheme will complement the wider extensive regeneration of Northampton, and this area has been identified to significantly benefit from redevelopment.
The Council has acquired the site from Church’s Shoes and will now carry out a detailed feasibility report to deliver much-needed affordable housing. On a key route into the town centre, it is important for local businesses and the local community that the best regeneration and economic potential of the area is realised.
To match market offers, WNC purchased the site at £3 million, with a further £300k budgeted towards legal fees, stamp duty and future remedial work. This work will follow on from the previous works which Church’s have carried out to the site.
Cllr Dan Lister, Cabinet Member for Economic Development, Town Centre Regeneration and Growth at WNC, said: “The former St James Bus Depot represents a prominent large brownfield site, close to Northampton town centre.
“This important landmark site has been vacant for some time, and we are dedicated to bringing forward a scheme that reflects the history of the area where appropriate and provides high-quality affordable housing which meets local needs. We look forward to carrying out further feasibility work and necessary planning to bring forward a viable scheme.
“Concerned that the site was heading for use as open storage, which we felt would not benefit residents, or maximise the contribution it could make to the attractiveness and the overall life of this area, the council felt that it was essential to step in and acquire the site.
“Following cross-party consultation, the council therefore took swift action using delegated powers, to ensure the site benefited from considered regeneration.”
In order to deliver the regeneration project, WNC will seek funding opportunities through the Enterprise Zone and Government’s brownfield land release fund. The brownfield land release fund seeks to provide Councils with funding to develop empty industrial sites to provide much-needed local housing.
PPMA BEST STEM day at Silverstone turbocharges STEM education
Over fifty children from PPMA member families were able to learn more about STEM (science, technology, engineering, maths) at the home of The British Grand Prix and one of the UK’s most prestigious Racing Circuits, Silverstone.
PPMA BEST held the STEM day at Silverstone, one of the best motor racing race circuits in the world. Over 100 parents and children attended the PPMA BEST STEM day in the Silverstone Experience. The families were addressed by Richard Little, chair of the PPMA BEST Trustees, and Shard structural engineer and STEM advocate Roma Agrawal MBE.
Roma has been an advocate for STEM education for over eight years and has written several books such as ‘How Was That Built’, a book aimed at informing young people about engineering.
Roma said: “I had a total blast speaking to families at the PPMA Best Silverstone STEM day event against the backdrop of racing cars. It’s so important to show young people that STEM careers, in particular engineering, are a brilliant option, and days like these are a vital piece of that work.”
After the talks, the children were then able to try their hand at building simple robots with PPMA BEST co-ordinator Matt Fox, and his partner Jo, before returning for lunch and a tour of the Silverstone Museum, but not before some of the children were awarded prizes for teamwork. One team member Hayden Favier, 12, from Bicester said: “I really enjoyed the day, especially the STEM session. It has inspired me as I love building and construction.”
PPMA director and PPMA BEST chairman, Richard Little said: “The PPMA BEST day at Silverstone was a great opportunity for a sizeable bunch of kids to find out more about why engineering is a career to consider and to engage with a very motivated bunch of engineers – their parents – and together to hear from an inspiring speaker and to actually try out some control theory and teamwork.
“We hope the message is clear that engineering is a great way to enjoy work and be creative and make the world a better place. It was a great day with lots of kids, lots of things to learn, lots of engagement and lots of things to do – and a very good reason to do more such days in the future. Like the great sci-fi author Isaac Asimov said, Science can amuse and fascinate us all, but it is engineering that changes the world.”
Derby brewery supports seeing dog charity with new beer
A new beer created by Derby-based Brunswick Brewing Company to help raise money for charity The Seeing Dogs Alliance sold out in the first week – resulting in charity Chairman Liam Flynn urging more pubs to stock it.
He said: “Sales of a brew called Double Vision deliver vital funds to The Seeing Dogs Alliance and support our critical work to increase the availability of seeing dogs across the UK.
“Our launch of Double Vision went better than expected, showing how awesome the beer itself is, but also how supportive the customers, staff and landlords have been in promoting the great cause that drinking Double Vision supports.
“If we can encourage more pubs across the Midlands to stock Double Vision, we can raise more money to help us in our work, which is so critical now.”
Pubs currently confirmed to sell ‘Double Vision’ include:
- Brunswick Inn, Derby, Derbyshire
- Dead Poets Inn, Holbrook, Derbyshire
- 189 bars, Allestree, Derbyshire
- Talbot Taphouse, Ripley, Derbyshire
- Seven Stars, Rugby, Warwickshire
- Gatehouse Tavern, Coventry, Warwickshire
- Selected pubs within the Everards of Leicestershire estate
Double Vision is a golden 4.4 per cent, hopped with Rakau from New Zealand plus Idaho 7 and Simcoe from the U.S. 10p from each pint sold is donated to the charity to help combat the current shortage of seeing dogs and the urgent need of thousands of visually impaired people across the UK.
NTU to launch new £1.5m centre for sustainable construction and retrofit
Nottingham Trent University (NTU) will invest £1.5 million into developing skills, research, training and consultancy to support the UK construction sector reach net zero.
The University will launch the Centre for Sustainable Construction and Retrofit to develop solutions, skills and support locally and nationally to enable the transition to net zero within the built environment sector. This will take the form of new courses and skills training, socio-technical research and consultancy opportunities for business.
Led by Professor Richard Bull, Deputy Dean of the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment, the centre will bring together a range of expertise to help the sector reach the ambitious net zero climate change targets by 2050.
“Net-zero by 2050 presents a huge challenge to the construction sector, which accounts for up to 50 per cent of carbon emissions,” said Professor Bull, an expert in energy, sustainability and the built environment.
“An absence of skills, knowledge and expertise threaten to derail plans for the UK’s important net zero targets. But this ground-breaking centre will enhance the way in which existing buildings and new construction can meet those all-important climate change objectives.
“NTU has a well-earned reputation for sustainability in the built environment and our research in housing retrofit in particular has a strong track record. We plan to develop new ways to support industry, to help them learn the new skills needed to retrofit existing properties en masse, and create new buildings in a sustainable way.”
NTU’s record in sustainability and the built environment includes the University’s ‘Scale-up Retrofit 2050’ whitepaper report which called for a nationwide programme to boost the energy efficiency of existing homes through deep retrofit.
It’s REMOURBAN project demonstrated the benefits of deep retrofits and was showcased as part of the UK Built Environment Virtual Pavilion during COP26.
This was followed by a ‘scaling-up deep retrofit for social landlords’ pilot project, which was funded by the Energy Saving Trust and ongoing collaboration with ARC Partnership and Nottingham City Council.
The Centre for Sustainable Construction and Retrofit will explore how the built environment sector transitions to a low carbon future, while addressing the retrofit skills gap via the creation of new courses and providing consultancy support for business.
It will launch on 14 November at the University’s Newton Building, City Campus, during an event which is open to policy makers, business leaders, academics and students.
A panel will explore the challenges and opportunities for the built environment sector to meet the challenge of Net Zero 2050. The panel will include speakers from NTU and partner organisations including Nottinghamshire County Council, Green Growth, Investment and Assets, Arup, Focus Consultants, Spenbeck and Morgan Sindall.
The event will be opened by Professor Richard Emes, NTU Pro-Vice Chancellor – Research and Innovation, and closed by Dr Andrew Knight, Executive Dean of the School of Architecture, Design and the Built Environment.
Charlotte shuts up shop and switches to building control apprenticeship
Charlotte Gladwin has said goodbye to retail management and has embarked on a brand-new career in building control thanks to an apprenticeship.
Previously working as a store manager at a pet shop for three years, Charlotte (21) now joins DBCP as a Level 4 Building Control Surveyor apprentice.
As an apprentice Charlotte will undertake practical on-the-job learning at construction sites throughout Chesterfield and North Derbyshire, working alongside DBCP’s team of experienced and knowledgeable Building Control Inspectors.
During her five-year apprenticeship, she will also combine her practical training with completing industry-recognised exams, which will ultimately see her qualify as a Building Control Surveyor.
As a qualified Building Control Surveyor, she will have responsibility for completing site inspections independently and ensuring buildings are safe, energy efficient and adhere to building control standards.
She explained: “I really enjoyed studying Geography, Psychology and Business at A-Level and, together with my love of the outdoors, I felt that a career in building control aligned with my future ambitions. At DBCP I’ll be part of the process that creates positive change in the local landscapes for our communities.
“Being in the position to check that building work is correct and architectural drawings have been followed is a significant responsibility. I’m really excited by the fact that at the end of my training, assignments and intense exams, I’ll be carrying out these tasks and be trusted to do so.”
DBCP’s long-running apprenticeship programme is helping the business attract local young people who want to progress their careers within the field of building control. The company currently employs seven apprentices who are at different stages of their training, including degree level.
“The opportunities provided by the team at DBCP are so exciting. I really enjoying being out on site and I’ve already found the team so supportive,” she added.
David Pratt, Building Control Manager at DBCP, said: “Building Control Surveyors are in high demand. We look forward to sharing our industry knowledge and best-practice with Charlotte as she embarks upon her five-year training. I know from personal experience that building control offers a long and varied career. I am certainly never bored!”
Judges name Ruby as Rising Star in Enterprising Women Awards
Ruby Birks has been named as Rising Star in the Enterprising Women Awards organised by East Midlands Chamber.
It’s an award open to female professionals aged between 18 and 35 which acknowledges exceptional career growth and the potential to develop into a future leader.
The honour, sponsored by Amanda Daly from The Turnaround CEO, is the fourth major prize won by Ruby, of South Normanton-based Purpose Media, in the past two years.
In 2022, she was named Apprentice of the Year at both the Enterprising Women and Generation Next awards, and, earlier this year, she was also announced as Generation Next’s Rising Star.
She said: “I certainly didn’t expect to be a winner at the Enterprising Women event last year and to be acknowledged twice in the space of two years is just stunning. I’m so grateful.”
Ruby joined the Purpose team in 2021 as a 16-year-old digital project apprentice and has progressed rapidly and successfully since, completing her apprenticeship with a distinction and achieving promotion to the role of Project Manager. She also now supports the company’s business development activities.
A passionate supporter of East Midlands Chamber’s Generation Next initiative, designed to assist the development of young professionals, Ruby has spent the last year helping to promote apprenticeships in the region.
“The last two and a half years at Purpose Media have absolutely flown by. I’ve loved every minute of it and can’t wait to see what the future holds,” she said.
“Winning the Enterprising Women Rising Star award feels like a nice symbol of progression from my apprenticeship into the rest of my career.
“It was a real honour to be part of the awards again this year. I’m so grateful to the members of the Enterprising Women’s Network for the work they have done over the last 26 years, opening doors for us so that we can have the opportunities we enjoy now.”
Chesterfield haulage specialist in running for national award
Chesterfield-based KranLee Logistics has been shortlisted at the BIFA Freight Services Awards, hosted by the leading body representing the UK international freight services industry.
The business, founded by Karen Mosley and Lee Wells in 2020, is celebrating after being nominated for two accolades.
Firstly, ‘The Extra Mile’ award is for companies that can demonstrate innovation and customer care by adding value and exceeding customers’ expectations in relation to their international shipping requirements.
The second award is ‘Staff Development’ for businesses that can demonstrate comprehensive training programmes to keep abreast of changes in regulations, industry practices and general business matters. The emphasis is on how the business encourages and develops all personnel to be their best and contribute to the success and direction of the business.
The BIFA Freight Services awards is in its 25th year, and comprises of 9 business categories.
The ceremony will be hosted at The Brewery in London where the winners will be announced. The date of the ceremony is 18th January and will be hosted by Suzi Perry.
Karen said: “To be shortlisted for the awards for us is a significant achievement. We are a small business, so to be recognised and share the spotlight with some of the largest businesses in our industry is huge.
“We put effort into everything that we do, using our own internal tagline to ‘be deliberate.’ When we started the business in 2020, for both Lee and I, it was important to support our business community with their international trade and it goes much deeper than offering logistics services.
“We deliver international training and have recently signed a sponsorship with East Midlands Chamber and Fidelitas International for the flagship course, International Operations and Procedures qualification.”
She added: “We started the business in February 2020 following many years of experience in employed capacities, I have worked in international and logistics for 26 years, and Lee for 13.
“When we started, there were just the two of us based at home. We had a fabulous start with many companies and existing clients that we had worked with over the years joining us. It was then after only two weeks we employed two further people to join us, as the volume of work that we got was overwhelming.
“The day one of those joined us was the day that the UK went into its very first lockdown with the second person joining us a week later. The pandemic was obviously very challenging for us, especially as a six-week-old business but since we had set the business up as home-based we were able to adapt relatively quickly. The resilience of our clients was immense too with many businesses totally re-designing how they worked so that they could keep the manufacture of goods going.
“We are currently at year seven of our business plan, after only 3.5 years in terms of turnover and profitability. We have very ambitious plans for the next 10 years.
“Business in Chesterfield is very special for us, we were both born and still live in Chesterfield, and we support the local community and absolutely love to be involved. Our town is very special and we promote it at every opportunity.
Administrators appoint heb to dispose of part-completed residential scheme in Mansfield
Acting on behalf of advisory firm Moorfields, as administrators, heb have been appointed to dispose of a part-completed major residential development scheme in Mansfield.
The Sherwood Oaks Homes development comprises 30 fully completed homes which are ready for immediate occupation.
In addition, a further 283 consented plots remain within the rest of the 25 acre site.
“We are pleased to be appointed to assist Moorfields by identifying a buyer for this unique opportunity,” said Robert Maxey, partner at heb. “This appointment follows on from other similar successful disposals on their behalf across the region, and we look forward to repeating the successful outcomes.
“This fantastic opportunity really is something of a ‘one off’, and provides the buyer the chance to begin selling homes immediately, together with an excellent pipeline supply for delivering later phases.
“The completed homes have been constructed to an incredibly high standard and the plans for the remaining development clearly show what an attractive and sought-after estate this will be as development continues to progress.
“Much of the initial ground works and servicing have been undertaken including the construction of the on-site pumping station and gas and electricity sub-stations. Accordingly, this really does offer a great opportunity for the successful bidder to really hit the ground running.”
Midlands only region to record rise in permanent staff appointments
The latest KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs survey, compiled by S&P Global, revealed the Midlands as an outperformer in terms of hiring during October. The Midlands was the only English region to record a rise in permanent staff appointments, contrasting with the strong downturn seen at the UK level, while temporary billings growth also outpaced that seen at the national level.
Signs of softness were nevertheless apparent as candidate availability rose markedly, while job vacancy growth remained considerably weaker than those seen in the first half of 2023. In turn, rates of increase in permanent starting pay and temp wages were slower than seen on average across the survey history.
The KPMG and REC, UK Report on Jobs: Midlands is compiled by S&P Global from responses to questionnaires sent to around 100 recruitment and employment consultancies in the Midlands.
Midlands bucks UK-wide trend with permanent placements growth
For the first time since November last year, the seasonally adjusted Permanent Placements Index posted above the 50.0 no-change mark, signalling a return to growth in permanent staff appointments across the Midlands at the start of the fourth quarter. The upturn was linked to stronger demand, according to surveyed recruiters.
Although the expansion was only marginal, it was a marked contrast to the strong contraction seen at the UK level. Indeed, the Midlands was the only monitored English region to register an expansion in October.
Billings received from the employment of short-term staff by recruiters in the Midlands continued to increase in October, extending the current sequence of expansion to five months. While the upturn lost momentum, it was slightly stronger than that seen for the UK as whole. Compared to the other three monitored English regions, only London recorded a quicker rate of growth.
October Report on Jobs data continued to signal much softer appetite for hiring across the Midlands compared to the trend seen in the first half of the year.
That said, the number of permanent job openings across the region rose further and at a stronger pace during October, contrasting with a fractional drop at the UK level.
Demand for temporary staff rose at the softest pace seen across the current three-year sequence of improvement.
Second-fastest rise in permanent labour supply in nearly three years
Amid reports of redundancies, October survey data signalled a marked and accelerated improvement in permanent candidate availability across the Midlands. Furthermore, the upturn was the second-fastest since December 2020.
Compared to the other three monitored English regions, only London recorded a stronger expansion in permanent labour supply.
The seasonally adjusted Temporary Staff Availability Index moved further above the 50.0 no-change threshold in October, signalling a faster improvement in the supply of people available for short-term work across the Midlands. Surveyed recruiters noted a greater willingness among candidates to look for new roles.
The upturn seen in the Midlands was narrowly weaker than that seen for the UK as a whole.
Starting salary growth remains weaker than long-run average
While October Report on Jobs data signalled a sustained rise in salaries awarded to new permanent joiners across the Midlands, and one that was slightly faster than previously, the overall rate of inflation remained weaker than the long-run average.
Competition for candidates continued to exert upward pressure on pay, according to recruiters, although squeezed employer budgets and improved supply reportedly acted to restrict salary growth.
London continued to lead the permanent starting pay growth at the English regional level.
Wage rates for temporary work rose again across the Midlands in October, in line with the trend seen since the end of 2020, although the rate of inflation slowed to a 32-month low. The Midlands also saw the slowest rise in hourly pay rates of the four monitored English regions.
Commenting on the latest survey results, Kate Holt, people consulting partner for KPMG in the Midlands, said: “It is great to see that, after a challenging few months for the Midlands, the area has seen a return to growth when it comes to permanent jobs, especially when the rest of the country is experiencing a downturn.
“The figures have been further boosted by a continuing rise in temporary roles also, allowing for positive news for jobseekers in the run up to the festive season.”
Neil Carberry, REC Chief Executive, said: “In many ways, the labour market is marking time waiting for the brakes to be taken off growth by the Bank of England.
“While permanent hiring bucked the national trend by growing marginally, temporary hiring is strong and continues to pick up the slack – with billings gently growing for most of the second half of the year on the back of rising wages.
“While the rate of pay growth has now returned to more normal parameters, it is still strong, especially in sectors where staff remain in short supply in Midlands, such as blue collar and hospitality.
“Looking to the Autumn Statement, businesses and Government need to be aware that the return of growth will reveal shortages more widely – action on skills, welfare-to-work programmes and immigration reform will be needed to prevent a return to growth being squandered.
“Healthcare providers are ramping up their hiring ahead of the winter, but candidate supply is short. Agency medical staff are keeping wards open and getting patients treated – they need a bit more support from Government.
“Reforming capped on-framework agency rates so pay for temps working on-framework can rise for the first time in four years will save Government money as they will end up using far fewer emergency shifts, and it will reward a part of the NHS workforce that is too often overlooked.”
Alstom staff to get dignity, respect, and wellbeing training
Staff at Alstom’s Derby site are to benefit from dignity, respect, and wellbeing training under and new contract with the University of Derby.
Alstom has been working with the University since January 2023 as part of the Mental Health and Productivity Pilot – a project led by the University which aims to reduce absence and employees turning up to work when they’re not well related to mental health and the stigma associated with mental health, particularly in the workplace.
The new contract will see the University’s Work Health Hub, in partnership with The Insight Centre, a leading Midlands-based provider of business and leadership coaching as a strategic collaboration, deliver a mixture of discussions, case studies, videos, and group work with the aim of enhancing mental health in the workplace.
The focus is on ensuring all staff have the same level of understanding and awareness of mental health and wellbeing, the benefits of effective communication, the wellbeing support that is available, both internally and externally, and how to access it.
Kate Wood, MHPP and Work Health Hub Project Manager at the University of Derby, said:“We are thrilled to have been awarded the Alstom consultancy project, and excited to be partnering with The Insight Centre.
“We have learned so much about Alstom’s culture and ethos over the last few months, and believe by bringing together our expertise and resources, we will be able to facilitate engaging and insightful workshops for all its staff, and continue to create a mentally healthy work environment, encouraging individuals to prioritise their own wellbeing, as well as support the wellbeing of their colleagues and employees.”
Marco Michel, MD UK&I RSC/Derby site, added: “I am delighted that Alstom has partnered with the University of Derby to deliver this important programme to our workforce.
“Dignity, respect and wellbeing are key to maintaining a positive, healthy outlook on life, so we are investing in this programme to promote positive workplace behaviours and a wellbeing culture. The programme complements the extensive range of employee wellbeing support and initiatives already in place for our 2,000-strong workforce.”
Start-up boost for East Midlands economy in vital Christmas run-up
A sharp rise in the number of companies set up in the East Midlands is a welcome boost to the local economy, with the possibility of an increase in employment rates and business growth in the vital pre-Christmas trading period.
According to the Midlands branch of R3, the UK’s insolvency and restructuring trade body, start-ups rose by 9.14% in the East Midlands last month, from 2,319 in September to 2,531 in October.
R3 Midlands’ figures, which are based on an analysis of data from business intelligence provider Creditsafe, also show a year-on-year rise of 12.44% in the East Midlands compared to October 2022, when start-ups numbered 2,251.
The R3 analysis also highlights a fall in the number of East Midlands companies with late payments on their books, a trend which has continued over the last six months. Insolvency-related activity in the region, which includes liquidator and administrator appointments as well as creditors’ meetings, has also decreased over the past month.
R3 Midlands chair Stephen Rome said: “It is encouraging to see positive statistics for our region, particularly as trading conditions are so challenging at present.
“With the upcoming Christmas period a crucial time for so many firms, the data indicates that there is still scope for growth in the Midlands. Advances in technology, interconnectedness and cheaper workspaces compared to London are helping to make it easier to start a new business here.
“The fall in companies with late payments is further good news for our region, however it should be noted that late payment figures remain relatively high and can pose a significant threat to a company’s health if not dealt with promptly.
“Should significant cash flow difficulties arise, it’s crucial for business owners to take professional advice as soon as possible. There is a significant amount which can be done to rescue and support local businesses, beyond traditional insolvency solutions, if help is taken early enough.”
Derby recruitment specialist celebrates new three-year deal with global rail manufacturer
Talent services company Ford & Stanley has secured a new three-year contract with train manufacturer CAF UK, further extending its successful partnership.
The agreement marks the third anniversary of the two firms’ collaboration, as the Derby-based recruitment business continues to help CAF meet its operational targets.
The contract covers all UK & Ireland temporary and permanent recruitment for CAF Rail UK Ltd & CAF Rolling Stock UK Ltd, plus a series of planned initiatives to be carried out over the agreed period. The announcement comes as recent news confirms that Great British Railways (GBR) is still on track to make its headquarters in the city, expected to create hundreds of new jobs and serve as a significant economic boost for the region.
Ford & Stanley is providing a dedicated account management team and support with key industry events and apprentice recruitment programmes, as well as pledging a number of sustainability-driven commitments, including its ‘A Tree For Every (Permanent) Placement’ initiative.
A long-term advocate of sustainability and wellbeing, Ford & Stanley Group also runs its own environmental scheme in conjunction with the Better Workdays Trust, the Better Workdays Conservation Meadow, a three-acre site in Derbyshire, dedicated to conservation, teamwork and mental fitness.
Chris Jones, director at Ford & Stanley, said: “Ford & Stanley’s unique service offerings have played a pivotal role in ensuring we continue our collaborative partnership with CAF, supplying a full site-managed service for contract and permanent placements, covering disciplines within engineering, operations, procurement, finance, business support and administration; all of which combine to help the company meet its operational targets.
“Just one of the many key aspects of our strategic relationship over the past three years has been working closely with the CAF hiring community to overcome the recruitment challenges faced due to the pandemic, the lack of suitably skilled and available candidates and legislation changes such as IR35 that has further reduced the pool of available candidates. Working together we have developed strong relationships and affirmed our role as a talent services provider that CAF can depend on and trust.”
Iain Taylor, head of human resources and support services, CAF Rail UK Ltd, said: “The partnership between our businesses continues to evolve and deepen, as time and again Ford & Stanley step up to the plate to deliver solutions which meet our evolving demands. Their recent proactivity in the sustainability initiatives show their cultural alignment to CAF as Danielle and the team continue to embed themselves within our business.”
Jenny Buck, head of HR & support services, CAF Rolling Stock UK Ltd, added: “Ford & Stanley have strategically aligned themselves with our business needs and their innovation, support and the hard work invested in developing the partnership has been very beneficial for both companies; we look forward to the relationship developing further during the next three years.”
Landowners and farmers offered free trees to plant on their land
Landowners, farmers, and other groups have until the end of November to apply for free trees to plant on their land in a scheme involving the Woodland Trust.
The scheme provides free packs of trees and hedges designed to help renew and restore existing woodland and vegetation, as well as replacing trees which have been affected by diseases such as ash dieback and encouraging more tree planting across Leicestershire.
The deadline for applying for the free tree and hedge packs has now been extended to Thursday 30 November, with successful applicants being able to collect their trees from Beaumanor Hall in Woodhouse on Wednesday 21 February 2024.
The tree packs are being made available to anyone who lives in Leicestershire with suitable areas of land to plant – including community groups, parish councils and schools, as well as landowners and farmers.
Each free tree pack includes 50 native trees – a mix of oak, wild cherry, crab apple, field maple and hazel, as well as tree guards and stakes. The hedgerow packs are made up of 250 native trees and shrubs, including a mix of hawthorn, hazel, field maple and oaks to plant at regular intervals along the hedgerow. Each hedgerow pack is enough to create a 50m-long hedge at five plants per metre.
Last year, the county council gave away around 50,000 trees from this and other similar schemes – and is hoping this year’s scheme will prove even more successful.
Councillor Blake Pain, cabinet member for the environment and the green agenda, said: “Trees play a vital role in keeping our air clean, helping to prevent flooding and providing valuable habitats for local wildlife. The free trees scheme is always hugely popular with groups, schools, and other landowners, which shows that the people of Leicestershire share our commitment to making the county a greener place to live and work.
“We have extended the deadline for applications to give more people the chance to sign up for the tree and hedge packs, and I would encourage anyone with a suitable area of land to apply to become part of this great scheme.”
Anyone who would like to apply for a free tree or hedgerow pack is asked to register by emailing lcctreepacks@woodlandtrust.org.uk
Private hire firm signs seventh-year deal with Chesterfield FC
Chesterfield private hire provider Veezu, which used to trade as City Taxis, has once again partnered with Chesterfield FC as first-team travel kit sponsors.
Its the seventh year of the partnership, but the first under the Veezu brand, with the partnership making Veezu the club’s official ride partner, ensuring fans can travel to and from home games easily and safely.
“Whilst the rebrand has been a prominent change for us at City Taxis, our ethos and passion for supporting our local community continues under the Veezu brand,” said Sacha Skinner, Regional Marketing Manager at Veezu.
“We are extremely excited to be partnering with Chesterfield FC again and to see Veezu on the training kits, in what has been a fantastic start to the 2023/24 season!”
Chief Executive John Croot said: “We are delighted to be working in partnership with Veezu and I would like to thank them for their support. We are confident that our strong presence and wide reach will help establish the brand in the area.”
UBS Chairman accepts title of Visiting Professor at Loughborough Business School
UBS Board Chairman Colm Kelleher, has accepted the title of Visiting Professor of Banking and Finance at Loughborough Business School.
Colm is renowned for his 30-year career with Morgan Stanley, where he served as President until 2019 overseeing both the Institutional Securities Business and Wealth Management segments of the organisation. During the global financial crisis, he held the position of CFO and Co-Head Corporate Strategy from 2007 to 2009.
He has solid leadership experience in banking with excellent relationships around the world, as well as a deep understanding of the global banking landscape and broad banking experience across all the geographic regions and major business areas in which UBS operates.
He said: “I am honoured and delighted to be appointed Visiting Professor by Loughborough Business School. I look forward to sharing my insights and experience with the students and faculty. Together we can contribute to the advancement of knowledge and practice in the field of banking and finance.”
Professor Nick Jennings, Vice-Chancellor and President of Loughborough University, said: “I am delighted that Colm has become a Visiting Professor at Loughborough University. He will bring significant acumen and insight from the sector and this will inform and inspire our staff and students.”
Professor Jan Godsell, Dean of Loughborough Business School, added: “Following the launch of our Distinguished Speaker Series in which Colm spoke about the impact banking has on a fairer and more sustainable future, I’m really pleased to now welcome him as a Visiting Professor as we progress our vision as the first-choice business school for purpose-led people and organisations.
“As a renowned leader in the financial services sector, our students and colleagues will take a great deal of insight and inspiration from Colm as they go on to shape the future of banking – balancing economic, environmental and societal needs to make the world a better place.”
Leicester-based Unique Window Systems secures business of the year title
Unique Window Systems has been crowned the Leicestershire Business of the Year by East Midlands Chamber.
The Leicester-based company, which supplies the trade, new house build and commercial markets across the UK – also won the Outstanding Growth category at the Leicestershire Business Awards.
It follows success recognition by the London Stock Exchange Group as one of the 1,000 Companies to Inspire Britain for three years in a row, having built its name as a market leader, doubling its eight-figure turnover between 2020 and 2022, and growing its team from 200 to 300 people in the same period.
The Leicestershire Business Awards recognised East Midlands Chamber members across 13 categories, ranging from Excellence in Innovation and Environmental Impact at organisational level through to individual honours for Entrepreneur of the Year and Apprentice of the Year, in addition to the overall Business of the Year winner.
Finalists, chosen by a judging panel of the Chamber’s senior leadership and board of directors, as well as sponsors, discovered their fate during a gala dinner attended by 350 people at The Venue@DMU, in Leicester.
Scott Knowles, chief exec of East Midlands Chamber, said: “The winners of our Business Awards are testament to the resilience, ingenuity and hunger for growth within the Leicestershire business community, which never ceases to amaze.
“Despite some of the relentless challenges that have been thrown their way, our region’s businesses continue to find new ways of succeeding and contributing to the communities in which they are based.
“It’s always important to celebrate these achievements and shout about the great things happening right here in Leicestershire. We know it’s a fantastic place to do business and these organisations are shining examples.”
