Business Comment Transport and Infrastructure - Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce
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Business Comment DECEMBER/JANUARY 2021 Transport and Infrastructure
CONTENTS
International Transport and
Enterprising Infrastructure 22
Cleaner, Calmer
Welcome to the latest issue of Business Comment. and Greener
Leading
City Centre
Cities are the engines of our economy, impacts the city centre making many
driving growth and prosperity for our businesses unviable. The number of
citizens, hotbeds for innovation and unemployment claimants in Edinburgh
Local
creative dynamos of the arts, culture and is up 200% since February with over
creative industries. 69,000 people on Furlough. The Scottish
Licence Trade estimate up to two thirds
And our city centre is the very heart of our
of licenced premises may be mothballed
Strathclyde
city, Scotland’s Capital and the biggest
or closed if the restrictions continue.
force in our national economy.
Potentially a loss of up to 5000 jobs.
That is why Edinburgh Chamber, along Many hotels closed through the winter.
with other business organisations, has
While successful neighbourhoods are,
been demanding greater action from
The final word in business education our political and civic leaders – both at
national and local level – to focus on
or course, to be celebrated it must not
be an ‘either or’. Without our vibrant city
centre, what will the future of Edinburgh
what they can do to help our city centres
look like? We cannot be complacent and
24
plot a recovery from the enormously
take for granted continuing success if
damaging impacts of the Covid-19 New Life for Edinburgh’s
we allow our city centre, our most prized
pandemic and the restrictions imposed to Beating Heart
asset, to wither on the vine.
combat it.
It is therefore encouraging to read that
An estimated 70% of the population will
St James Quarter and their billion pound
live and work in cities by 2050. But the
plus development aimed at reimagining
pandemic has been a catalyst for a major
our city centre as a retail destination has Contents and Introduction 03
shift in the way we work, travel, socialise
the continued confidence of national
and come together. Neighbourhoods Member Benefit 04
and international retailers and hoteliers,
have benefited from the ‘buy local’
despite the huge problems we have faced Chamber News 05 | 09
messages as people work from home
through coronavirus.
and travel less. Communities have
Inspiring Connections 11
come together to support each other Business wants to build again, to invest,
and in many ways we have rediscovered to grow and we need our politicians to Chamber News 13
the values of a more cohesive society. provide the policy environment to help
Strathclyde Business School is a top business Top Tips 14
The new buzz phrases are ‘the 20 us provide the jobs and opportunities
school within a leading international technological minute commute’, ‘Place-Making’ and that our citizens depend on. Edinburgh New Members 15
University, recently named UK University of the Year ‘empowered communities’. Chamber, as ever, will be speaking up for
in the prestigious Times Higher Awards 2019. businesses. Ask the Expert 16
All good. But our city centres do so much
to define our cities and the success they Corporate View 18
As a long-established, pioneering business school, enjoy, or not. Big international brands
we understand the business needs of organisations, recognise the demand and success
Developing Young Workforce 20
from SMEs and start ups to global players. that Edinburgh’s unique centre has to Special Report 22 | 25
offer. This has created a vibrant city
With seven international centres, we know first hand with choice, entertainment and a quality In Conversation With 26
the importance of global thinking and we continue of life that attracts talent, students,
60 Seconds | Get with IT 27
to introduce innovative business programmes and entrepreneurs, investors and visitors.
bespoke executive education to suit the demands of This summer we saw a reduction in International Update 28
an evolving business world. footfall of 2 million each month in the Chamber Training 29
city centre, significantly impacting retail Liz McAreavey
Our acclaimed MBA programme can be studied on and hospitality. Working from home, Chief Executive,
Chamber Policy Update 31
Edinburgh Chamber
a full time, part time or flexible learning basis which likely to continue to spring 2021, further of Commerce Chamber Partners 32 | 35
means you don’t have to give up the day job – or
Edinburgh’s Newcomers 38
travel far – to get a world class MBA.
www.strath.ac.uk/business December/January 2021 BC 3
INSPIRING COMMUNITIES CHAMBER NEWS
Local government leaders call for post-COVID
Covid has shown us how to build a collaborative city recovery to be rooted in stronger, wealthier
We all have to eat. Yet the pandemic meant that more people than ever before in communities, new Arcadis report finds
Scotland’s capital city were not sure where their next meal would come from.
As COVID-19 continues to dramatically change the way we all live, travel and
behave, a new report from Arcadis has highlighted some of the key priorities for
both local government and the general public, as authorities across the country
look to deliver a recovery that builds back stronger communities.
To better understand what the public, local
government and public sector leaders see as
the top priorities for post-COVID recovery in their
areas, Arcadis carried out research covering
1,700 organisations and individuals. More than
60% of local government respondents agreed
that a focus on ‘community wealth building’
would help to revitalise town centres. Meanwhile,
with more than 1 in 3 members of the general
public calling for a prioritisation of improvements
to the high street, the research highlighted a
growing consensus that the recovery should be
a unique opportunity for a radical rethink of how
we view our communities and live our lives.
COVID-19 has shown just how important the
strength and resilience of our communities
should be. The public opinion polling showed a
clear preference for prioritising local interventions
that protect and improve public health, local
amenities and the environment. Amongst Creating the right homes in the right places work to understand the new landscape and the
the general public, the polling showed that opportunities it could bring across business,
investment in green transport and home energy Re-imagining town centres and high streets
Covid shone a disconcerting light on just how baked 60 cakes for food parcels. Phoenix public sector and political leadership. Most
efficiency measures to tackle climate change Putting digital inclusivity at the heart of the
fragile the circumstances are of many families staff baked and bought cakes for the same ranked amongst the top priorities for local importantly, we have the chance to radically
health and wellbeing agenda re-think how we view our communities and live
of all shapes and sizes. Thankfully, led by purpose. Leith Rugby Club players, many spending overall. Similarly, local authority leaders
that same light, many amazing cross-sector on furlough, supported the Citadel Youth saw investment in active travel schemes that Actively exploring new forms of mobility our lives.
collaborations, supported by people from all Project to distribute food. Mimi’s bakers support walking and cycling, as well as measures
to increase public transport capacity as some of Across all of these levers, there needs to be “We hope that through close collaboration
walks of life, stepped up so that those in need donated cakes. There were pies from Jarvis’s.
the most achievable short-term goals. consideration of any climate impacts to ensure between all groups involved in building back
were fed. Vans from Arnold Clark. Laptops donated
the recovery builds greener communities as better, the benefits of the post-COVID recovery
so folk could stay in touch. Clothes, socks, The findings of the report strongly make the case well as stronger ones. Similarly, they must be
RBS, for example, used their Gogarburn toys, and so much more was given. In fact I for a renewed focus on implementing policies at will extend well beyond simply bringing GDP
underpinned by emerging innovative digital tools
facilities and expansive client network to probably should apologise to the many acts all levels of local government that strengthen and back to pre-pandemic levels, but will also embed
more of these inspiring stories in more detail. that have the potential to radically improve the
access and gather food – and much more – in of generosity I have missed! So many people protect the health, wealth and wellbeing of local effectiveness and inclusivity of local authority sustainable long-lasting change in our towns and
We don’t just want to inspire and celebrate,
one place to be distributed to partner charities. who were facing real crisis due to Covid were communities, as well as delivering lower carbon policies and services. cities, and for the people who live within them.”
Cyrenians turned their training kitchen into as positive as this will be, but we also want and greener places that everyone can enjoy.
supported by so many others, who gave what Arcadis is now calling for greater collaboration Lord Barwell, a strategic advisor to Arcadis and
a production kitchen where staff, aided by to encourage all of us to ask the question: if
they had to people they would never know. This is a crucial time for local authorities between local authorities and the private sector
we can collaborate so quickly and effectively former Housing and Planning Minister said:
volunteers including furloughed chefs, were with the imminent Comprehensive Spending to ensure the unique opportunity for lasting
producing up to 1000 meals a day. Meanwhile, For those sleeping rough it was a particularly when faced with a crisis, if we can shatter Review and further fiscal interventions from positive change to come from this crisis is not “The pandemic may have taken the climate
supported by donations from supermarkets, challenging time. But a real cross-sector silos and break barriers with such great effect Central Government likely before the end of the passed over. debate off the front pages, but it will be back with
businesses, and elsewhere, Cyrenians’ partnership between the third sector, the City in a time of particular need, why can’t we year. More than ever the private sector has an
Mark Cowlard CEO of Arcadis UK and Ireland bigger and bolder ambitions. As we look to forge
FareShare operation geared up from Council, the Scottish Government, and the do it all the time? We want to create a “next essential role to play supporting local authorities
in managing these challenges and delivering said: a successful post-COVID recovery, it is crucial
distributing 10 tonnes of surplus food each private sector in the form of hotels, helped
normal”, which continues to see different local decision makers, business leaders, and
over 700 people off the streets and into stronger and wealthier communities. “The spread of COVID-19 has dramatically
week, to distributing 80 tonnes, allowing them sectors not as ‘foreign’ to our own world, but developers take note of this report and not only
accommodation in hotels between March and To help local authorities better understand changed how communities live, travel and
to deliver food for around 1 million meals as places where we can all seek to collaborate build back better, but build a healthier, greener
September. In all that time, not one person how the private sector can help, Arcadis has behave. From breaking old certainties to the
between March and July. Other organisations, with our fellow citizens, to keep making our and more inclusive society.”
staying in the hotels contracted Covid. developed a range of short- and medium-term acceleration of new trends, it has forced us to
such as Scan Academy, Broomhouse Centre, Capital City a place where everyone knows quickly adapt to new ways of living.
opportunities and recommendations for a shared The full report can be viewed and downloaded
Big Hearts, Fresh Start, Grassmarket project There are so many other amazing stories to that they matter, and where we all belong, recovery that strengthens communities. These
and a myriad of others, all found their own tell. The Chamber’s Inspiring Communities “While some of the longer-term effects may take here. https://www.arcadis.com/en/united-
whatever our story or circumstance. five ‘levers’ for a shared recovery include: years to be fully understood, there is a now a
ways of getting food to those who could not and Inspiring Talent Networks will be running a kingdom/our-perspectives/recovery-campaign/
Embracing the principles of 15-minute pressing need for action to rebuild our economy
otherwise access it. One 100-year-old woman campaign in the next few months to tell some Ewan Aitken, CEO Cyrenians our-shared-recovery-plan-for-stronger-
and tackle wider societal challenges. We must
communities communities-arcadis/
4 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 5
CHAMBER NEWS BC ADVERTORIAL
Engineer Dr Carol Marsh awarded with OBE for Are You Outgrowing Your Accounting System?
services to diversity and inclusion champions vision Growing businesses often outgrow their accounting software or legacy Enterprise
that celebrates independent women Resource Planning (‘ERP’) systems that are unable to handle increased inventory
and transactions, lack integration with other line-of-business applications and have
Edinburgh engineer Dr Carol Marsh, who has just received an OBE for services to reporting limitations. Customers also feel pain around scalability, mobility and cloud.
diversity and inclusion in the Queen’s 2020 birthday honours, wants to encourage
girls and women to view engineering careers as a route to personal and A modern business must work smarter and
more efficiently to stay competitive. And where
professional independence. previously a business might have been able
to work around the limitations of their current
systems, what this year has shown is that
Carol works as the Deputy Head of Electronics to consider engineering careers,
those limitations are considerably more difficult
Engineering at aerospace engineering company she believes that the whole industry
to navigate when teams are not as centralised
Leonardo and believes that working as an can benefit from engaging a richer
as they were previously. Regardless of where
engineer can provide women with professional diversity of individuals from different
your team is located today, all of this takes
independence to create solutions in a role that backgrounds, who can offer a wealth
time and effort to maintain, so how can your
presents stimulating challenges every day. of perspectives that ultimately
business grow.
However, she also thinks that many students, enhance innovation.
parents and teachers still do not realise that
engineering roles are amongst the best-paid
As an engineer who has always Not sure if this applies to your
jobs in the UK, offering a route to financial
been fascinated by other women business?
who have been first movers in
independence. Take a minute to identify if your existing
new areas of innovation, Carol has software that would integrate into accounting As an all-in-one platform solution, it makes
systems have what it takes to make the most
Educated in Edinburgh, Carol attended invested a great deal of time and systems such as Sage and Exchequer to managing financials, sales, service and
of new opportunities. Take into consideration
Tynecastle High School before studying effort into establishing a catalogue help businesses meet specific business operations easier and faster at a lower cost
some typical signs customers experience when
Electrical and Electronic Engineering at Napier of female innovators over the past requirements that the accounting software of ownership, compared to traditional ERP
they want to handle additional growth and see
University. For decades, she has pioneered century for WES, as a permanent could not offer out of the box. We have solutions and is tailored to specifically meet the
if they sound familiar:
new approaches to increase girls' and women's resource for STEM Ambassadors, considerable experience in building integrated needs of SMEs. Being a cloud-based solution,
awareness of career opportunities. According parents and teachers across the Systems are disconnected and information applications for areas such as stock control Business Central offers faster implementation
to recent research, at present women only UK. These include female engineers, is siloed and purchase order process as well as and migration from existing systems, no
represent 12.37% of the engineering workforce, scientists and WES presidents from upfront hardware and software costs,
Duplicate data entry into multiple systems integration into customer websites for both
with only 30% of women who qualify in STEM the 1920s to the present day. Many combined with a much lower cost of ownership
frequently occurs order taking and customer relationship
disciplines remaining in the industry. She thinks of WES’s early members played based on a monthly, per user, per month
management. And although these have worked
that part of the problem is that there still isn’t a significant part in the nascent Accounting occurs in Excel and not in your licensing model and that can be accessed
well for our customers, the risk with these types
enough awareness about how empowering a aeronautical industries, working as financial system securely from anywhere from any device in the
of solutions is that when the vendors upgrade
career in engineering can be. designers, engineers and pilots in the same way that you can get your email and files
Last year when Carol chaired the IET Scotland Reporting is complicated and provides their core accounting systems, the bespoke
1920s and 1930s. from Office 365.
Carol said: “Engineering isn’t just a job, it is Dinner, she used the event to highlight the insufficient detailed information software integration may also need updated. All
a vocation. When you’re an engineer, you’re Amy Johnson is possibly the most famous achievements of past pioneers including Radar of which results in a loss of time and revenue
thinking about it all the time. If girls want to be WES member, acting as WES President from Lack of secure workflows and audit trails and an increase in cost. How can Endeavour help?
Electronics Engineer Betty Laverick, Electrical increase risk
independent, it is one of the best careers you 1933-1934 and renowned for her adventures as We are delighted to announce the addition of
Engineer Margaret Mary Patridge and little
can choose, because you get to do work that is a pilot. She qualified as an engineer and worked
known Marine Engineer Victorial Drummond.
Inability to handle increased inventory and So what is so different now? Dynamics 365 Business Central to our range of
really exciting, you look forward to coming into hard to encourage and inspire other women transactions from sources such as Microsoft cloud-based solutions. Our Microsoft
In addition, Carol has collaborated with Dr Microsoft Dynamics 365 Business Central is
work every day, and you get paid good money to join the industry and become qualified. e-commerce Certified team have been delivering Dynamics
Nina Baker, Engineering Historian, to research designed to provide tools to better manage
to do so, so you can be truly independent both Johnson achieved worldwide recognition in 365 based solutions since its launch and in
personally and professionally.” 1930, when she became the first woman to trailblazing female pioneers who transformed When we see these issues being raised the your financials, automate and secure your
addition our implementation and migration
fly solo from England to Australia. Flying a modern computing. most obvious solution to recommend would supply chain, boost sales and customer service,
services are led by a Chartered Accountant
Carol’s past roles have included working as be to implement an end-to-end ERP business while optimising your operations. It connects
G-AAAH Jason, she left Croydon Airport, Surrey, with over 30 years practical experience in
the President of the Women's Engineering Despite all of her achievements, Carol was management solution that connects data your people and processes with a single, unified
on 5 May and landed at Darwin, Northern delivering the right information at the right time
Society (WES) and the Chair of IET Scotland. genuinely shocked to receive her OBE award. from across the entire business to streamline solution integrated into Microsoft Office 365, so
Territory on 24 May after flying 11,000 miles to organisations across many different types
She was responsible for launching the WES She said: “When I received the email, I couldn’t business processes, improve customer data can be quickly and easily shared with key
(18,000 km). and sizes.
'Female Engineering Student Conferences' believe it and all I wanted to do was shout it out interactions, and allows management to make people throughout your organisation.
across the UK to put female students into Carol said: “Amy Johnson is the perfect and tell my family, but of course you can’t and better decisions. In the past, this has typically If you would like to speak with someone about
direct contact with female role models in example of an independent woman who used been a very expensive solution out of reach That means you get access to current, accurate how Dynamics 365 Business Central could
it’s been so hard keeping it a secret. I want to data so you are making informed decisions
the engineering industry. She also created her engineering skills to push boundaries. of most small to medium sized organisations help support and grow your organisation, call
thank everyone who nominated me and what I possible. For example, when a sales rep
the WES 'Primary Girls Intro to Engineering' Seeing is believing, and it is more important with expensive software, new hardware and us at either our Belfast office on 028 9031
do would not be possible without the support working from home or on site makes a change
events, which gave many girls their first taste than ever for girls and women to get to know software and then expensive migration and 1010 or Edinburgh office on 0131 376 0090
of engineering, through activities incorporating these role models – to learn about how they of my family, the company I work for, Leonardo to a customer quote, it gets reflected in the to discuss the potential power that Business
implementation costs.
everything from soldering to rocket building and faced and overcame challenges and took and the organisations I have been involved with numbers being pulled for a forecast report back Central could deliver to your organisation.
including the Women’s Engineering Society at the office. With more accurate information at
coding. This annual event is now a mainstay of control of them using engineering skills. If these What have we done in the past? Additional information on Business Central and
Leonardo's annual STEM calendar. While Carol women managed it in the past, then there is no (WES) and the Institution of Engineering and your fingertips, decisions have a bigger impact the services we provide can be found on our
In the past we would have built custom
has focused on encouraging girls and women reason why they can’t in the future.” Technology (IET).” on the bottom line. website at https://www.endeavour-is.com.
6 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 7
CHAMBER NEWS CHAMBER NEWS
activpayroll Donates Annual Social Budget to Local Charities
Amplifi Solutions grows team a year on from
activpayroll, the global payroll and tax compliance specialist headquartered
launching in Scotland in Aberdeen, Scotland has announced it has donated a five-figure sum to four
Roger Daynes hired as Regional Manager for Scotland to work alongside Scottish charities during the coronavirus pandemic.
Commercial Director Jamie Watts activpayroll has donated a combined total of
£16,000 to Maggie’s, Friends of Anchor, Charlie
House and Support in Mind Scotland, with each
R&D tax credit specialist Amplifi Solutions has receiving £4,000. It is hoped that the funds will
grown its team a year on from launching in help the charities continue to support those
Scotland. Roger Daynes is their new Regional
that really need it during these unprecedented
Manager for Scotland, bringing experience from
and challenging times.
an international career in technology, sales,
marketing and growth, working in leadership activpayroll’s social committee, activ-in-action,
teams at organisations including AEGON, Zurich is granted an annual budget for company
and Nasdaq-listed Copart. Daynes will work events such as Summer BBQ’s, quiz nights,
alongside Amplifi’s Commercial Director, Jamie Christmas parties and also organise smaller
Watts, who joined Amplifi from Scottish tech gestures such as breakfast for the team on
recruitment firm iMultiply in June 2019. Charity has always been high on activpayroll’s “With charities across the country working hard
a Friday and free fruit. With all social events
Amplifi Solutions was co-founded by Jeff cancelled for 2020, activ-in-action was agenda, since 2016, the team has raised in to ensure they stay afloat during these turbulent
Drennan and Chris Maylin in Belfast in 2014, but tasked with coming up with an alternative excess of £100,000 by taking part in a range times, it is more important than ever that as a
with the Scotland office growing quickly over the to give team members. Various ideas were of challenges and events. At the beginning of company, we support them in any way we can. I
last twelve months, around half of all Amplifi’s 2020, activpayroll was set for another year of am always immensely proud of all the charitable
considered, including takeaway food vouchers,
new clients are now headquartered here. fundraising and challenges, however when the work that goes on across the business, especially
supermarket vouchers and virtual group events
Amplifi’s client base in Scotland includes venture coronavirus pandemic hit, these had to be put the team’s decision to donate the annual social
with prizes, however, the ultimate decision was
capital-backed startups QikServe, the hospitality on hold, ultimately affecting the charities that
unanimous, the money that would normally budget to charity. I would urge other businesses
sector app which enables touch ordering and so heavily rely on donations to survive.
be spent on events would go to activpayroll’s who are in a fortunate position like us to do the
payment; identity and access management
chosen charities for 2020. Alison Sellar, CEO of activpayroll, commented: same this year.”
platform Symphonic Software, and Aberdeen-
headquartered clean energy technology group
East Coast Oil & Gas.
Jeff Drennan, Managing Director and Co- HMRC’s latest R&D Tax Credit statistics, Private equity firm Maven Capital Partners is one
Founder of Amplifi Solutions, said: “We’re
excited to grow the team in Scotland, a country
published at the end of September, revealed
that Scottish SMEs made over 2,405 claims
of Amplifi’s advocates, with Maven’s Investment
Director, Alan Robertson, adding: “At a time New Scottish HQ for Summers-Inman
whose entrepreneurs continue to build a global equating to £135 million R&D tax credit funding when businesses are being tested by a number
reputation for innovation, tech know-how and are in 2018/2019, with the overall figures for of external factors, it has never been more Construction and property consultants Summers-Inman has opened a new Scottish
creating some leading technology companies. important for them to continue to innovate. A
Most of these businesses are in the SME sector
Scotland-based businesses as a whole at 2,925
claims equating to £235 million in R&D tax credit number of Maven investee businesses conduct headquarters in Edinburgh as part of a strategic growth plan north of the Border.
and are innovating every day, which means they funding. In the UK as a whole, £5.3 billion of high levels of ongoing R&D as part of their day-to-
have the most to benefit from the R&D tax credit day operations and it is encouraging that they are Located on the west side of the city, the new The new Scottish HQ has seen a significant
R&D tax relief support was claimed in 2018/19 state-of-the-art office measures over 2400 investment in office furniture, technology and
incentive.” able to get support for this important investment
equating to £35.3 billion of R&D expenditure. square feet and is considerably larger than the the latest audio-visual equipment.
by making use of the R&D tax credit incentive.”
Drennan added: “Getting Roger on board, in company’s previous base in the capital.
Roger Daynes, Regional Manager for Scotland at “It not only provides much better facilities for
addition to Jamie joining the senior team last
year, gives us a wealth of advisory talent at a Amplifi Solutions, said: “Being part of the Scottish About Amplifi Solutions The move to larger premises has been made our staff, but is also a much more modern and
diaspora in North America and the Middle East to help meet rising demand after a series of presentable commercial office space,” said
time when government support has never been Amplifi Solutions provides an end-to-end R&D
allowed me to see how highly rated the nation significant contract wins, with the professional Mr Cheatley. “Like everyone, when lockdown
so high, nor so essential. For our new Scottish tax credit service from a team of qualified
is when it comes to all things tech. At Amplifi surveyors planning further growth in 2021. was announced we switched to home working
clients, we are highlighting areas of innovation accountants, data analysts and technical and have been able to seamlessly facilitate
within their business they didn’t even realise Solutions I now have the chance to work with experts who guide clients through the entire The expansion into a new main office at New that due to recent investment in our IT and
qualified, which is opening up a new R&D tax many of our most dynamic businesses and help claim process, from innovation discovery, data Mart Road with its improved open-plan facilities communications systems, with a cloud-based
relief avenue for businesses of all sizes and them to harness their growth aspirations and analysis, case study writing and submission of and IT connectivity, comes after nearly seven system and remote access facilities.
sectors across the country.” potential.” claims. Amplifi has built a trusted reputation years at nearby Craiglockhart Avenue.
in the marketplace with clients, accountants, “We work much better collaboratively so
Aynsley Cheatley, Regional Managing Director although we can work from home, our new
“Being part of the Scottish diaspora in North America investors, advisers and HRMC. (Scotland) said: “ base will eventually allow us to do that. I don’t
see us returning to full-time office working in the
and the Middle East allowed me to see how highly “We’re delighted with the new premises. It’s in
a more commercial area, close to a number short term but do envisage more flexibility in with Leith-based Nutrend supplying the
rated the nation is when it comes to all things tech. At of our clients and can accommodate future how we operate going forward.” furniture. They also used their own in-house
skills to design, specify, procure and manage
expansion. Due to recent contract successes
Amplifi Solutions I now have the chance to work with there is a need for a larger space. We have more
Summers-Inman supported local businesses
for the fit-out of the new office. Local contractor
the office fit-out and refurbishment works, with
many of our most dynamic businesses and help them capacity than our previous office which allows
us to accommodate our future growth plans.”
MPACT undertook the refurbishment works
project management overseen by Associate
Director, Michael Pollock.
to harness their growth aspirations and potential.”
8 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 9
CIRCULAR ECONOMY MEMBER BENEFIT
Meet the Mentor
Oliver Tidman, Founder and Managing Director Tidman Legal offers his
Circular innovation that gives you a warm feeling expertise and guidance to mentees so they can go on to develop successful
If you’re concerned about the environment and ethical business, then Midlothian- businesses and become leaders of the future.
based Sisaltech should certainly give you a warm feeling… We are living and working in unprecedented
times. With the current coronavirus
restrictions, meeting face-to-face may no
The company is breaking new ground in “The base material of all of our insulation for start-ups and for established companies
longer be an option but support remains
creating a natural, environmentally-friendly products is sisal, a highly sustainable fibre crop creating new and innovative products and
available.
insulation material to keep homes warmer which is grown by small-scale farmers in east services.
(and quieter) in a way that does not add to the Africa.” Often we think of business mentoring as a
John added: “Providing you have company
production and use of plastics. formal process, but a business mentor can be
“ We buy sisal fibre from small farmers co- directors and managers who can think outside
someone you catch up with over a coffee and
The company is bucking the insulation trend in operatives in east Africa for a fair price, import the box and are not totally stuck in their ways,
a video call as regularly as you like for a casual
using no oil or plastic in the production of their the fibre in the lowest carbon way possible, then it should be highly possible for all sectors
chat. When people see you in your natural
material, using instead the sisal fibre grown in then blend it with other circular economy fibres and businesses to sit down to think about their
habitat it adds to the sense of trust that is
East Africa and bought at fair price from small (recycled wool, recycled blue jeans etc) to activities and what they could do differently.
required for a business mentoring relationship
farming co-operatives. create a much lower carbon product than any
“A good starting point would be to think about to work. If you are a business owner or leader,
of our mainstream competitors. In our ultimate
And they are determined to re-use Sisal everything that comes in the door. What your everyday life is about mentoring – in
circular economy product, the sisal is made into
products, such as sacks used to transport materials are you consuming, how sustainable the sense of creating an environment where
coffee sacks in Africa and used to transport the
coffee beans, to ensure their product is playing are they, were did they come from, and could people can thrive, where they feel safe and
coffee beans to Scotland. After the beans are
its part in creating a more Circular Economy there be a better and maybe recycled source” secure and able to develop.
roasted we then shred the sacks to create the
and working with the Circular Edinburgh
base material for our insulation.” “Then think about how you are processing Mentors enjoy opening up and sharing stories
project.
those materials, it could be as simple as from their own business experiences that can
“There are some other companies also
A circular economy looks to keep the flow of changing from using nails to using screws often inspire new ideas or change your way of
producing natural fibre insulation products,
materials and products within the economy for so that at the end of life a product can be thinking, helping your business be nimble and
e.g. sheep’s wool insulation, or wood fibre
as long as possible, extracting the maximum disassembled into its component parts for innovative. I’m very honest about my mistakes
insulation, but they all still use a plastic-based
value from them whilst in use. reuse or recycling instead of going into landfill. and that can provide some of the biggest
binder to hold the insulation together. We were
Think about your packaging.” learning opportunities for a mentee. Having a
The Circular Edinburgh project is supported not willing to follow this practice so developed
business mentor can provide entrepreneurs
as part of Zero Waste Scotland’s Resource our own starch-based binder as a more “And finally, when your product goes out the with invaluable insights and support that can
Efficient Circular Economy Accelerator sustainable and fully biodegradable alternative.” door are you saying goodbye to it for ever? Do ultimately transform business performance.
Programme, which will invest £73m in circular you really want to be the designer of a linear your skills, or a sounding board to bounce
“Finally, when you are installing insulation
economy and resource efficiency projects, process where you have no control over what As a business owner, your skills are constantly ideas off, Edinburgh Chamber of Commerce’s
you inevitably have off-cuts. In the case of
thanks to support from the European Regional happens to your product at end of life?” developing. Turning to a mentor for guidance Business Mentoring programme is mutually
mainstream insulation products these go
Development Fund (ERDF). This programme and support is a great way to add to your rewarding and I would strongly recommend
to landfill and can take 200-400 years to For further information please visit https://
provides funding and support for small and skillset and discover how to improve your getting involved.
decompose. Our off-cuts can go in your www.edinburghchamber.co.uk/circular-
medium sized businesses in Scotland to be business strategy in many areas. Your
brown bin for industrial composting and in the edinburgh/ or contact Mayan Grace or Lauren If you’re interested in getting involved in our
more resource efficient and create a more mentor will be able to provide one-to-one
longer term we are considering a way of our Ridgley on 0131 221 2999 (option 5) or email Business Mentoring Programme we would
circular economy. expert support that focuses on your specific
customers returning the offcuts to us to be circulareconomy@edinburghchamber.co.uk love to hear from you. For further information
challenges.
John Ferguson of Sisaltech said: “The majority shredded and recycled into new insulation.” on our Business Mentoring Programme,
of insulation products on the market are oil or Whether it be a catalyst for new ideas, a door please call 0131 221 2999 or email
Sisaltech are working proof that the Circular
plastic based and are themselves very carbon to new and exciting opportunities, developing mentoring@edinburghchamber.co.uk
Economy offers huge opportunities, both
intensive to manufacture.”
10 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 11
BC ADVERTORIAL CHAMBER NEWS
Trading Standards Analyst First to Achieve the New The Edinburgh Football Show
Level 6 Diploma in Intelligence Management Broadcaster David Tanner has launched a football programme focussing on the
capital’s three senior football teams. The Edinburgh Football Show is a weekly
Intqual-pro would like to congratulate Paul “Taz” Taylor, Regional Analyst for podcast which promises to be the new voice of football in the city.
the National Trading Standards Intelligence Team (London Region) on being
the first intelligence professional to successfully complete the new Level 6
Diploma in Intelligence Management.
The qualification, regulated by ProQual highlight areas of improvement.”
Awarding Body was developed in 2019 to
Ash Shah, Interim Head of Regulatory Services
offer a route of progression for the thousands
and Intelligence Manager for London Trading
of analysts who have undertaken the Level Standards stated: “Firstly, congratulations to
4 Higher Diploma in Intelligence Operations Taz on this brilliant achievement which has not
Analysis and have moved into managerial only benefitted him personally, but also greatly
positions across the Intelligence community. supports the intelligence function for London
Trading Standards and myself, so it is a big
Taz Taylor, with previous military and law
win-win all round.
enforcement experience, is a well-known
figure within the regional and national Trading When Taz joined our organisation, he bought
Standards community. a lot of experience and knowledge with him
from an intelligence perspective and since
Commenting on the programme, Taz stated:
then I have seen him grow both in terms of his
“It has provided me with different thoughts
profession as well as taking a more strategic
and approaches for various intelligence tasks and rounded stance.
within my organisation both regionally and
nationally. It has taught me to be more critical One of Taz’ strengths is that he is very
in my thinking especially when planning tasks passionate about intelligence and the benefits
for my assistant as well as understanding it can bring to law enforcement and to that
what Strategic and Tactical management are end, he has been instrumental in promoting
seeking to achieve. the intelligence qualifications within our region
and we are now ready to put through the third An Edinburgh Chamber member since 2016, Hearts and Hibs fans! The capital is still home
An improved understanding of Risk cohort of Intelligence level 4 apprentices. David produces and presents the show, which to two sizable clubs and the country’s oldest
Management when applied to Intelligence showcases Hibernian, Hearts and Edinburgh City. city derby. This market is underserved, even
processes has also benefited me and my With the massive changes that we have had to
ignored”.
organisation and has allowed for further make during this pandemic, Taz has adapted The Edinburgh Football Show is now available as
decisions to be made as to what each local and used many of the strategies learnt through and many of our managers lack specific a value sponsorship and partnership opportunity The show’s launch coincided with October’s
authority may be able to achieve going this the level 6 qualification to implement training that allows them to be adaptable within for the business community in the Lothians. derby and features stars like Steven Pressley,
forwards. I have also used some of the change in order to meet very demanding that environment, or we also see experienced Derek Riordan, Andrew Driver, John Burridge,
circumstances. Finally, this new qualification is managers come from other sectors and As the host of the Edinburgh Chamber of
acquired skills and knowledge to influence Dave McPherson and Colin Cameron.
testament to his hard work, great attitude and professions that struggle to adapt. To be able Commerce Business Awards and a TV “Viewing figures illustrate that club-focussed
the regional management teams in relation presenter on Sky Sports, BT Sport and Hibs TV, David is studio presenter of Hibs TV’s live
commitment to always improve. to offer a degree level qualification specific to programming is the future of football
to available tools that will assist in intelligence David is a familiar face to members. His voice coverage of games this season – for the first
intelligence managers is a huge step forward broadcasting. The Edinburgh Football Show
and investigative information capture and Intqual-pro Director of Training, Barry Searle is heard on radio across the UK on TalkSPORT, time every match is broadcast live to fans in
in the professionalisation of our sector. The has been born in that new media world.
development. said “This is a fantastic achievement for Taz, fact that it is focused on the actual workplace as a Scotland correspondent. the UK on club as the pandemic has closed
The tasks and assignments in the course are his academic engagement was excellent application of management and impact of the stadium: “I’m really proud of the quality of “We’re featuring footballers who matter in
throughout and the quality of work submitted As a national broadcaster based in Edinburgh, Edinburgh and getting their expert take on
thought provoking and provided me with new activities goes beyond academic theory and The Match on Hibs TV. Easter Road chairman
was some of the best that we’ve seen. The really gives the manager confidence in their he’s aware of the gap in the market for quality current local football issues and enjoying
processes that can be used going forward, Ronald Gordon, a TV executive in the US, has
feedback shows that the qualification clearly effectiveness, we are very much looking programming about our SPFL clubs. David said: great stories of their glory days. The response
They also assist in the reflective practices at given Greg McEwan, Head of Marketing and
meets sector needs which was our primary forward to the continued development and role “I understand that broadcasters in Glasgow or Brand Partnerships, the budget and support to from a growing audience tells me we are
all levels involved in the Intelligence processes
driver with this first cohort of intelligence out of this qualification”. London need to focus on the numbers and that deliver this programme. onto a winner. We hope that local businesses
within my organisation such as inspiring
managers. means the Old Firm, but that’s of no interest to and brands will join us and engage with our
consultation with Subject Matter Experts in the For more information on the Level 6 Diploma in
listeners”.
creation of Collection Plans, Intel Requirements, Intelligence professionalisation is still a Intelligence Management, visit www.intqual-
Strategic and Problem Profiles to assist relatively emerging concept and whilst we have pro.com/qualifications/intelligence/level- You can hear The Edinburgh Football Show
“Viewing figures illustrate that club-focussed
recommendations. structured development in place for analysts 6-diploma-in-intelligence-management or wherever you listen to your podcasts: Apple,
and management in intelligence environments, contact enquiries@intqual-pro.com. Spotify, Acast, Spreaker, Deezer. Ask Alexa or
I thoroughly enjoyed all the modules and it
has provided me with more confidence in the
it is something that I believe has to date, been
overlooked.
programming is the future of football your smart speaker for The Edinburgh Football
Show podcast. Contact David on
work I undertake across the whole Intelligence
environment. It has enabled me to conduct Leadership and management styles in these broadcasting. The Edinburgh Football Show info@davidtanner.tv
evaluation on my organisation and myself to conditions and considerations are often unique Follow on Twitter and Instagram:
has been born in that that new media world.” @davidtannerTV @EdinburghFooty
12 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 13
TOP TIPS NEW MEMBERS
TOP TIPS ON: CYCLING TO WORK WITH CONFIDENCE WELCOME TO OUR NEW MEMBERS
Name: Dionne Phipps-Clancy
Horizonally Merry Go Round Edmundson Electrical
Business: Sustrans Scotland
Title: Way to Work Project Officer
Why active travel works Packing supplies
Over the last few months, we’ve seen the and picking
number of people cycling in Scotland accessories www.horizonally.co.uk www.merrygoround.app/merry-go-round-merchant/ edmundsonsighthill.co.uk
increase dramatically. The Covid-19 The right accessories
pandemic has encouraged us to explore our will keep you
local areas and created an opportunity for comfortable and safe The Christmas Decorators Out Scotland Freakworks
more people to try getting around by bike. on your commute.
These include a bell,
Whether we’re working from home long-
helmet, mudguards
term, or looking for new ways to commute
and reflective clothing.
to work, it’s more important than ever to fit
Luxury add-ons such
activity in our daily lives. as mirrors will make
moving in traffic less
How to start your journey daunting, and pannier
You don’t need much to start cycling. Just a bags or a basket will www.thechristmasdecorators.co.uk www.freak-works.com
bike and the willingness to give it a go. help take the weight
out of most loads.
But there are lots of resources out there
that can help equip you with the skills and A compact stock of MB Media Par4 Walker Creative Video Production
confidence to get out on your bike. essentials such as
lights, a pump, a lock,
Whether you’re in the office or working from tools and a puncture Dionne
Phipps-
home, we’ve put together our 6 top tips for repair kit are also must-
Clancy
cycling with confidence in the coming year. haves.
Map your route Work with the
Keep it secure
Planning your route helps you know what weather
You should always keep your bike locked www.wearemb.co.uk www.wlkr-creative.co.uk
to expect. Are there hills to get around? Can The weather in Scotland can be
busy roads be avoided? Often there are unpredictable at the best of times, so it pays securely, even if your workplace provides
multiple routes available, each with pros and to be prepared. A hat with a thick pair of protected cycle storage. Firmly attach your
cons. Cyclestreets and Ordnance Survey are gloves and socks will keep your ears, fingers bike to an immovable object, such as a bike Moment Agencies Cash Flow Manager Seg Pack
great tools for linking up with local traffic- and toes frost-free, while a good set of stand or railing, with sturdy D-lock. This can
free connections and the National Cycle waterproofs will ensure you stay dry through be used in combination with a cable lock
Network. most downpours. Also, consider wearing
to ensure any quick release parts, such as
several thin layers instead of one thick coat
to prevent overheating. the saddle or front wheel, are protected. Our
Get road smart with cycle ‘Bike Security Advice’ log can help protect
training Keep your bike in good shape your bike from theft.
Skills such as good road positioning,
Your bike will last longer if you care for it Follow the directions www.cashflowmanager.co.uk www.segpack.co.uk
signalling and visibility are invaluable when www.momentagencies.com
properly. Regular checking and cleaning will
wheeling around, especially on roads. help avoid the need for costly repairs and Way to Work is an online tool to help
Knowing these will boost your confidence ensure your bike runs smoothly. Get into the employers promote active travel in the
and help keep your journey safe and habit of performing a quick ‘M check’ before workplace, with information on funding, Schroders Personal Wealth Team Jak Foundations Would you like more
enjoyable. Cycling Scotland offers an you start your commute. training, support and awards. information on joining
Essential Cycling Skills training course in Should you find yourself with a puncture,
You can also take part in our annual Scottish the Chamber?
three parts, covering beginners through our How to Repair a Puncture’ video should
to experienced riders. Short videos are Workplace Journey Challenge in March 2021 Membership prices start at only
help you find a fix. Our guide on ‘How to
available on Level 1, Level 2 and Level 3 to Clean Your Bike’ will also help you protect are that encourages workplaces to commute by £25.80 per month.Please contact us
help build your knowledge. against component wear and damage. foot and wheel wherever they are. for more information.
Richard Ellis Head of Membership,
www.spw.com www.teamjak.org.uk Richard.ellis@edinburghchamber.co.uk
14 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 15
INSPIRING CONNECTIONS BC ADVERTORIAL
Edinburgh’s engaging events calendar
2020 has been a year like no other for the Chamber events team. Since March
the team have delivered over 90 virtual event sessions ranging from business
support sessions, high level business briefings to cook-along classes and quiz
nights.
Houses of Parliament to Engage in
Behavioural Detection Training
Ian
Marchant
Andrew
Kerr
27 November 2020: An innovative behavioural detection programme
developed by one of the UK’s leading learning and development consultancies
Last month our events calendar saw the return Last month we launched our ‘Sustainable former Chief Executive of SSE plc for a will be delivered to delegates in Houses of Parliament.
of one of our most popular events adapted to Recovery’ panel series with the first event leadership session led by Andrew Wilson of
be delivered virtually, Speed Networking. This in this series focusing on Infrastructure and Charlotte Street Partners. Ian shared many In partnership with Critical Cinema, a has helped organisation’s in a multitude of Engaging in good behavioural detection
fun, fast paced and energetic event provides Development. Stakeholders from Openreach, challenges and lessons learned throughout his producer of film-based e-learning, MaST have sectors give employees the confidence to practices across an organisation is a vital
delegates with the opportunity to virtually meet Turner & Townsend, SP Energy, Arcadis and long-standing career in the energy industry. been commissioned by Houses of Parliament assess the baseline of average behaviours part of keeping that organisation strong, and
new contacts, one business professional at Murray Estates Limited formed the panel Later this month we will launch our ‘Future to deliver their Behavioural Detection Analysis and spot those which are out of the ordinary each trainee plays a vital role. Even with all the
time. We will be running more ‘Virtual Speed and discussed the support required at both Edinburgh’ series with the first session focusing course. The delivery of the course will provide and conduct an initial resolution conversation. technical and AI support available nowadays
local and national level to support economic delegates with the confidence and capability
Networking’ sessions in December and on Smart Cities. This session will host key Houses of Parliament will be the latest – CCTV cameras, facial recognition – nothing
recovery. to both identify anomalous behaviour and act
throughout 2021, so be sure to get involved! leaders from the City of Edinburgh and further organisation to benefit from the immersive is more effective at recognising human
on their observations.
It has been a challenging time for many afield, with this first webinar welcoming Elaine film-based course, after recognising the behaviour … than a human themselves.”
November saw us welcome the team behind
organisations, and with this we created a Doherty of City Fibre, Phil Cragg of Deloitte The entry-level course was developed by significant training opportunity it represents.
the incredible development taking place on our both MaST and Critical Cinema to enable the MaST is the UK’s longest established
safe space for knowledge transfer and idea and Jordi Ortuño Ribé, Innovation Manager at Brian Mitchell, Managing Director at MaST,
doorstep, St James Quarter. Delegates were opportunity to learn from hindsight in this learning and development consultancy.
sharing amongst our members. Our ‘Chamber Barcelona City Council. Keep a look out for our commented: “We are extremely proud to have
updated on the project’s impressive progress crucial area of responsibility, whilst delivering Delivering global immersive and experiential
Connects’ sessions encourage members to Festive Tea Break and have your Christmas been approached by Houses of Parliament
and experienced a virtual fly-over of the vibrant an increased understanding of how to build learning solutions, their expertise was
share ideas, work out solutions and discuss jumpers at the ready, we can’t end 2020 to deliver this e-learning programme. Unlike
destination showcasing the 85 retail outlets, 30 an organisation-wide culture of involvement in recently highlighted when they became a
any challenges that their organisation may be without an event spreading a little Christmas others, the Behavioural Detection Analysis
restaurants, two hotels and cinema; creating risk mitigation and resilience. Qualifications Network (QNUK) approved
facing at this time. cheer! course empowers trainees to learn from
an inspiring and attractive hub for locals and centre.
With relevancy to all crowded environments, experience as they watch potential real-life
visitors to live, shop, eat, sleep and play. We most recently welcomed Ian Marchant, Looking into the New Year, we will hear from including airports, rail stations, venues or scenarios portrayed right in front of them by Critical Cinema are a producer of streamlined
Andrew Kerr, Chief Executive of Edinburgh retail businesses, the e-learning programme our specialist actors. solutions for the security sector, with key
“It has been a challenging time for many
City Council as he updates us on the plans for
our City, and we will be launching Edinburgh’s learnings embedded in 10-minute episodes
organisations, and with this we created
first virtual Business Festival (more on page
26). You can keep up to date with the range of
“We are extremely proud to have been of a drama series followed by assessment
modules.
a safe space for knowledge transfer and
business support webinars and virtual events
we have coming up with our events calendar
approached by Houses of Parliament to
idea sharing amongst our members.”
on our website www.edinburghchamber.co.uk/
events/.
deliver this e-learning programme.”
16 BC December/January 2021 December/January 2021 BC 17
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