Professional services group appoints new chairman

Tess Egginton
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Professional services group appoints new chairman

Professional services group Gateley has appointed Edward Knapp as an Independent Non-Executive Director and Chair Designate. Edward becomes a Non-Executive Director with immediate effect and will become Chairman when Nigel Payne steps down from the board on 1 November 2024.

Edward is a global business leader with extensive experience in growth strategy design and delivery, technology, risk management and transformation with a particular focus on professional and financial services.

He has held executive and senior leadership roles in consultancy and professional services, high-growth technology companies and major financial institutions worldwide, including McKinsey & Company, Barclays, HSBC, Revolut and M&G, where he has most recently brought a particular focus on advisory, wealth management and talent.

As a member of the UK Endorsement Board he is accountable for influencing, endorsing and adopting standards for audit, accounting and professional services spanning UK PLCs.

He currently serves as a Non-Executive Director of F&C Investment Trust plc and has extensive international private-equity backed and plc board and advisory experience, including Chairman of the Audit and Risk Committee and Non-Executive Director of AIM company Ten Lifestyle Group plc and formerly as a Non-Executive Director of Mattioli Woods plc.

On appointment, Edward will become a member of the Remuneration, Audit and Risk and Nomination Committees. From 1 November 2024, he will take over the role of Chairman of the Board, and Chairman of the Nomination Committee.

Rod Waldie, CEO of Gateley, said: “On behalf of the board, I thank Nigel for his significant contribution to the Group throughout the nine year period since IPO. His experience, tireless commitment, clear perspective and support have been instrumental in growing the diverse and resilient professional services business that Gateley is today.

“I am delighted to welcome Edward to the board. He brings extensive and valuable executive and non-executive experience across a range of sectors, commercial acumen and strong and effective leadership. He will be an excellent chairman for the Group.

“I very much look forward to working with Edward as we continue to grow the Group, maximising the strengths and opportunities generated by the unique combination of professional services in our business.”

Edward Knapp, incoming Chair of Gateley, said: “It’s an honour to be appointed as the next Chairman of Gateley. Nigel and the whole team have achieved so much since IPO. The business has an extraordinary track record and heritage of delivering for clients across its legal and professional services capabilities.

“I am looking forward to engaging with our clients, colleagues, communities, shareholders and the whole board to help Gateley navigate the next chapter of outstanding client service, capitalising on its compelling talent proposition to deliver sustainable profitable growth and shareholder returns for the long term.”

Loughborough-based insurance brokers snapped up

Tess Egginton
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Loughborough-based insurance brokers snapped up

Insurance intermediary, Specialist Risk Group (SRG), has acquired Loughborough-based Anthony James Insurance Brokers, subject to regulatory approval.

This latest acquisition further expands and strengthens SRG’s retail pillar, Specialist Risk Insurance Solutions (SRIS). Founded in 2009, Anthony James Insurance Brokers has built a strong reputation for providing comprehensive insurance services for businesses across the UK. Its expertise spans a wide range of sectors including commercial, corporate, and high-net worth personal lines, making Anthony James a valuable addition to SRG’s existing portfolio. Chairman and founder, Steve Boorman, and Managing Director, Jacob Duckworth, will continue to lead the business, aiming to accelerate growth both organically and through acquisitions. Their team of 50 staff will also transition to SRG, maintaining operations from the Loughborough and Nottingham offices as they establish and strengthen SRG’s presence in the East Midlands. Anthony James becomes SRG’s fifth acquisition since it announced its new investment partners, Warburg Pincus and Temasek, in May this year. Lee Anderson, SRG Group Deputy CEO, said: “Steve, Jacob and the team at Anthony James are a brilliant addition to our growing Group. They have built a fast growing and profitable business that we have admired for a number of years, and we are delighted to welcome them to SRG. The Anthony James team will add tremendous value to our retail business, SRIS, and I look forward to seeing the positive impact Steve and his team make as part of our exciting growth strategy.” Steve Boorman, Anthony James Chairman, said: “It became clear when getting to know Lee and the SRG team throughout the deal process that we shared the same people-focussed and growth-oriented values. I would like to thank my team for all their hard work, and we now look forward to working with our SRG colleagues on our exciting future ahead.”

Just 2 weeks remain to make your nominations for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024!

Tess Egginton
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Just 2 weeks remain to make your nominations for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024!
With only two weeks remaining until nominations close for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024, ensure to submit your entries for the annual celebration of the property and construction industry by Thursday 5th September. The Bricks shine a light on the outstanding work of those shaping the landscape of our region, recognising development projects and people in commercial and public building across the East Midlands – from offices, industrial and residential, through to community projects such as leisure schemes and schools. We also highlight the work of architects, agencies and those behind large schemes. Take this chance to showcase exceptional new commercial and residential developments, those demonstrating a leading position in sustainability and design excellence; gain recognition as outstanding developers, architects, contractors, and agents, as well as for significant deals; and ensure efforts in corporate social responsibility are rewarded, from eco initiatives to charity work, to social value schemes. To nominate your (or another) business/development for one of our awards, please click on a category link below or visit this page.  Award categories include:

Nominations end Thursday 5th September

A glittering awards ceremony revealing winners will take place on Thursday 3rd October (4:30pm – 7:30pm) in the Derek Randall Suite at the famous Trent Bridge Cricket Ground, also offering the perfect opportunity to forge new contacts with property and construction professionals from across the region. The event will additionally feature Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire, as keynote speaker. Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours. Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region.
Dress code is standard business attire.
Thanks to our sponsors:      

       

To be held at:

Highlight responsible businesses at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024

Tess Egginton
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Highlight responsible businesses at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024
On Thursday 3rd 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 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 Thursday 5th September, 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. Last year the award was won by Cawarden, with G F Tomlinson and Aspbury Planning Limited runners up. Upon winning, William Crooks, Managing Director of Cawarden, said: “Cawarden’s second consecutive win of the Responsible Business of the Year award is a true testament to our unwavering commitment towards improving the industry’s image. Our efforts to raise the bar for our people, planet, and community have been recognised through this award. Being a part of the regional property and construction sector is a source of immense pride for us, and we will continue to strive towards excellence.” This year’s Responsible Business of the Year award will once again be sponsored by Press for Attention PR. Greg Simpson, founder of Press for Attention PR, shared: “I have sponsored The Bricks for many years now and as far as I recall, always this particular category. Why is that? Well, it is the PR and the former journalist in me combined. “There are some superb stories that come to light here that might otherwise struggle to make the news or are perhaps kept under the bushel to an extent. I get that. The work and changes that are being created are the key thing when it comes to being responsible from an ESG perspective, not the column inches. That being said, here’s a chance to cast off those sharing shackles and to shine the spotlight proudly on some of the fantastic feats and worthy work that is taking place across the region within the built environment. Cheers to you all.” Offering advice to those entering the awards, Greg added: “First up, tell us judges a story. We don’t need to hear about what you do, your history and inside leg measurements. Set the scene by all means but grab our attention early on by explaining the problem or challenge as it stood and how you tackled it and crucially…why? How did you change things? What does it mean for the user/stakeholder. Remember, nobody wants a drill…they want a home in the wall. Show us the results.” Submit your nominations for Responsible Business of the Year here before entries close on Thursday 5th September.
Winners and sponsors at the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2023
Winners will be revealed at a glittering awards ceremony on Thursday 3rd 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 Paul Southby. Other award categories open for entry include: Commercial Development of the Year, Contractor of the Year, Architects of the Year, Residential Development of the Year, Developer of the Year, Deal of the Year, Most Active Estate Agent, Excellence in Design, and Sustainable 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 2024 will also receive a year of marketing/publicity worth £20,000.

Book your tickets now

Tickets can now be booked for the East Midlands Bricks Awards 2024 – click here to secure yours. The special awards evening and networking event will be held on Thursday 3rd October 2024 in the Derek Randall Suite at the Trent Bridge Cricket Ground from 4:30pm – 7:30pm.
Connect with local decision makers over nibbles and complimentary drinks while applauding the outstanding companies and projects in our region, and hear from keynote speaker Paul Southby, partner at Geldards LLP, chair of the Advisory Board to Nottingham Business School, chair of Broadway independent cinema, trustee of Clean Rivers Trust, chair of Nottingham Partners, board member of Marketing Nottingham and Nottinghamshire, and former High Sheriff of Nottinghamshire. Dress code is standard business attire. Thanks to our sponsors:      

     
 

To be held at:

Chesterfield IT company transitions to employee ownership

Stuart Pearcey
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Chesterfield IT company transitions to employee ownership
Chesterfield software company  RA Information Systems is to become an employee-owned business through an Employee Ownership Trust. A company spokesman said: “The move reflects our commitment to sustaining the company’s independence and recognising the invaluable contributions of our employees. This decision not only secures the future of our business but also honours the legacy of our founders by preserving the unique culture that has defined RA Information Systems for over three decades. “An EOT is particularly well-suited to RA Information Systems’ business model, where people are at the heart of its success. By placing ownership in the hands of those who contribute most, The company is aligning its structure with its long-term vision and values. This transition allows the firm to continue providing the high level of service which clients have come to expect while giving something back to dedicated colleagues.” The Trustee of the RA Information Systems EOT Limited now owns 100% of the company shares. The initial Trustee Directors include Rob Dabbs, Helen Hadfield, and Rachel Judge, who will oversee the trust and ensure that it continues to serve the best interests of the employees and the business. There will be no immediate changes to the day-to-day management of the company. The founding family —Rob, Annette, and Jon Dabbs — will continue to be actively involved, ensuring continuity and stability. The firm is confident that this new ownership structure will provide the stability, depth of management knowledge, and quick decision-making necessary to support customers well into the future. Rob Dabbs, Trustee Director at RA Information Systems, said: “This transition to an Employee Ownership Trust is a natural evolution for our company. It ensures that our values are safeguarded while maintaining our unique culture. For our customers, it’s business as usual—we remain committed to delivering excellence, with the same dedication and passion that has always been at the core of RA Information Systems.”

Eddisons expands in Leicester with appointment of Associate Director

Stuart Pearcey
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Eddisons expands in Leicester with appointment of Associate Director
Eddisons plans to extend its East Midlands regional reach further into Leicestershire with the appointment of Aman Verma as Associate Director, moving in from Phillips Sutton Associates. This is the second senior hire for Eddisons in the East Midlands this summer, and this latest appointment is part of the firm’s strategic expansion in the region. Addison’s Director Gilbert Harvey said: “Extending Eddisons’ offer in the East Midlands was always part of the business’s plan which began with the acquisition of Northamptonshire surveyors Budworth Hardcastle in 2022. “While we have grown our regional roster of clients and instructions over the past two years, an active recruitment campaign – which is ongoing, with more appointments set to be announced in the autumn – is part of our plan for strategic growth across all counties in the East Midlands. “Aman’s depth of knowledge of Leicestershire and the contrasting strengths of its commercial markets across the county will play a key part in presenting the Eddisons’ offer to new property audiences, as well as reinforcing our regional reach to existing clients.”

Land sold for bungalow scheme in Coalville

Tess Egginton
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Land sold for bungalow scheme in Coalville
Mather Jamie, a specialist land development and property consultancy, has negotiated the sale of land in Coalville for a single-storey housing project. Acting on behalf of a private landowner, Mather Jamie sought developer interest for a prime development site in Coalville. The site, which has full planning permission for 24 single-storey dwellings with garages and associated off-street parking and infrastructure, spans 2.67 acres. It is strategically located to the south of Coalville, within the civil parish of Hugglescote and Donnington le Heath. Broadmead LLP has acquired the land with plans to deliver the approved bungalow scheme. Chris Milne from Broadmead LLP said: “We’re committed to providing the homes people want, where they’re needed most. This opportunity allows us to build much-needed housing in this part of Leicestershire and look forward to the next stage of this process and seeing our plans become a reality.” Sam Tyler, Development Surveyor at Mather Jamie, added: “This is an exciting scheme that will bring much-needed single-storey housing to the local area. Broadmead LLP has worked diligently to deliver an excellent outcome for our client.”

Nottingham-headquartered solicitors joins Amputation Foundation legal panel

Tess Egginton
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Nottingham-headquartered solicitors joins Amputation Foundation legal panel
Rothera Bray Solicitors have been appointed to the legal panel of the Amputation Foundation. Founded in 2017, the Amputation Foundation is a charity dedicated to providing immediate, empathetic, and effective support to amputees and their families. As one of the Amputation Foundation’s recommended legal partners, Rothera Bray will leverage their extensive experience in limb loss litigation and will aid the charity in expanding its reach and delivering its strategy to support more people affected by limb loss. Founder Stephen Cruse said: “Amputation Foundation is delighted to welcome Rothera Bray to the AF family. As the charity grows, so too does our need for additional support and having met with Rothera Bray on several occasions, we were excited by the synergy and ethos we shared. “AF is expanding its regional support hubs and sharing a partnership with another Midlands based legal firm will help us and our members to access broader support. “As a bilateral below knee amputee, I set Amputation Foundation up with one thing front and centre of my mind and that was and always will be, to support individuals and their families through what is invariably a life-changing experience. “We are really looking forward to working with the Rothera Bray team to ensure our support can reach those people who want and need it.” “This collaboration represents a significant step forward in our mission to support those affected by limb loss,” said Greg Almond, Partner and Head of the Serious Injury team at Rothera Bray Solicitors. “We are honoured to join the Amputation Foundation panel and contribute to their invaluable work. Together, we will provide vital resources and legal expertise to improve the lives of amputees and their families.”

Outstanding East Midlands businesswomen to be celebrated at ceremony

Tess Egginton
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Outstanding East Midlands businesswomen to be celebrated at ceremony
Inspiring leaders, entrepreneurs and apprentices are among East Midlands women to be showcased at 2024’s Enterprising Women Awards. Organised by East Midlands Chamber’s Enterprising Women network, the ceremony at Winstanley House in Leicestershire on 20th September will unveil the winners of 10 award categories. Enterprising Women Co-Chair Eileen Perry said: “With exactly one month to go until the Enterprising Women Awards, we’re busy setting the stage for an unmissable evening at this beautiful venue in Leicestershire. East Midlands women absolutely can thrive in business and these awards show that by doing so, they are driving continued change in perception within the business community. “For me, what happens off the stage can be just, if not more valuable than on the stage.  The huge boost to self-confidence you get sharing in the wins of brilliant businesswomen in the East Midlands is one thing, but the opportunity to network and build connections is really something that cannot be underestimated in growing your presence. “I’d urge anyone poised to press the button to join us at the Awards to get registered straight away so as not to miss out on what is certain to be a really uplifting evening.”   Finalists for the Enterprising Women Awards 2024:  Businesswoman of the Year           (sponsored by Michael Smith Switchgear) Bhumika Parmar                                 BP Legal Lai-Yee Cheung                                  Sanjay Foods Andrea Grey                                       PPL PRS Jo Jepson                                            Base 51 Michelle Williams                                Meesh Consulting Female Entrepreneur of the Year   (sponsored by Fraser Stretton Property Group) Katy Upton                                          Fortitude Nicsa Laura Holland                                     EcoTech Engineers Michelle Williams                                Meesh Consulting Poonam Sharma                                 Barclays Social Commitment Award              (sponsored by Tomato Energy) Jessica Popplewell-Barker                 Rykneld Homes Emma Sharpe                                     Menphys Sally-Anne Hurn                                  Duncan & Toplis Natalie Dunbar                                    Consultus Blu Hardy                                            Hardy Signs Bodie Hodges Foundation                  Bodie Hodges Foundation Female Employee of the Year         (sponsored by Nelsons) Jay Dodson                                         Base 51 Sarah Spray                                        Menphys Anne-Marie Hunt                                NatWest Charlotte Barker                                  The Maynard Lai-Yee Cheung                                  Sanjay Foods Hannah O’Brien                                  Colleague Box Team of the Year                               (sponsored by Breedon Consulting) Base 51                                               Base 51 Family Law & Care Team                   Timms Solicitors Olivia Beesley, Jodie Pringle              Purpose Media Summit Creative                                 Summit Creative The Maynard                                       The Maynard Bodie Hodges Foundation                  Bodie Hodges Foundation Apprentice of the Year Award         (sponsored by Futures Housing Group) Elena Richards                                   Rolls-Royce Amber Whitby                                     Pentaxia Sarah Illsley                                        Pentaxia Lillie Jeffries- Williams                        Rolls-Royce Manhoor Akhter                                  Rolls-Royce Emerging Leader Award                  (sponsored by Sarah Higgins Corporate Coaching) Lai Yee Cheung                                  Sanjay Foods Alice Houghton                                   The George Hathersage Longbow Venues Bethany Grundy                                  PPL PRS Ruby Birks                                          Purpose Media Kamila Rozkowska                             M&E Accident Repair Centre Ltd Small Business of the Year Award (sponsored by Unique Window Systems) Medilink Midlands Michelle Williams                                Meesh Consulting Sabrina Sudera                                   Design Studio Architects Laura Holland                                     Ecotech Engineers Rachel Biddles                                    Blueprint Interiors She Who Innovates Award              (sponsored by Pick Everard) Kate Allan                                           ExpHand Medilink Midlands Preethi Kang                                       Qinesis Deborah Chester                                RimPro Tech Elena Richards                                   Rolls-Royce PLC Lifetime Achievement Award          (sponsored by Paradigm Wills) To be announced at the ceremony

Wood recycling company fined following collision death

Tess Egginton
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Wood recycling company fined following collision death
A wood recycling company has been fined after an employee was killed when he was struck by a JCB wheel loader. On 29 April 2019, Thomas Brooke was walking across the yard at John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited in Nottingham. A JCB wheel loader, with its bucket raised, was operating in the yard along with other vehicles, but as the shovel moved forward, it collided with Tom who died from his injuries. Tragically, Tom was working for the family company. At the time of the incident, Tom’s son Rupert was aged four. His wife, Jessica Brooke described Tom as a kind and caring person who was dedicated to his family and was loved by everyone who knew him. In a statement, she said: “Our hearts are broken. The pain and suffering of his loss has been immense, and no words can describe the impact that his loss has had; both Rupert and I have been forever changed. “We were partners in crime, soulmates and best friends and together took on whatever challenges life threw in our direction.” Describing the relationship Tom had with Rupert, who is now nine, Jessica said: “From the moment that Rupert was born Tom was a natural father and Rupert and Tom had a very special bond. They were as thick as thieves, both being at their happiest when in the other’s company. Tom was a brilliant role model to Rupert in every respect; he was Rupert’s favourite person in the whole world and Rupert couldn’t have wished for a better father. “I grieve the future that we will never have but also, and particularly, that Tom will never see Rupert’s future.” The family have asked for their privacy to be respected at this difficult time. An investigation by the Health and Safety Executive (HSE) found that John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited did not properly organise its workplace to keep pedestrians safe. There were no control measures, such as physical barriers, to prevent pedestrians accessing areas where loading shovels, lorries, forklift trucks and 360 grabs operated. It failed to properly assess the risks from operating machinery with reduced visibility and did not properly train, instruct and monitor employees. On 20 August 2024, John Brooke (Timber Treatments) Limited of Fosse Way, Widmerpool, Nottingham pleaded guilty to breaching regulation 17(1) of the Workplace (Health, Safety and Welfare) Regulations 1992 and section 33(1)(c) of the Health and Safety at Work etc. Act 1974 at Nottingham Crown Court. They were fined £22,500 and agreed to pay costs of £44,227.28. Speaking after the sentencing, HSE inspector Lindsay Bentley said: “This has been a very difficult case for all concerned. However, those in control of work have a responsibility to implement safe methods of working. Had simple measures been taken, this tragedy could have been prevented.” This HSE prosecution was brought by HSE enforcement lawyer Kate Harney and supported by HSE paralegal officer Rebecca Forman.
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