West Sussex Sustainable Business Showcase

Join Let’s Go! Net Zero at the stunning Aldingbourne Country Centre on 25 June for a celebration of sustainable business and to hear how it’s done. This event is for any West Sussex business that is interested in sustainability.

A successful business and doing your bit for the planet don’t have to be two competing goals.

In fact, they can easily go hand-in-hand.

From solar panels paying for themselves and turning a profit to winning new clients and contracts because of solid green credentials, West Sussex has countless stories of businesses making sustainability work for their bottom line.

There'll be a panel of groundbreaking speakers, a delicious, locally-sourced lunch and refreshments, and plenty of opportunity for networking with fellow businesses.

Brought to you by Let's Go! Net Zero, the event will feature a selection of West Sussex’s Green Business Champions, all of whom will share how they’ve cracked the win-win of combining a commitment to sustainability with successful business.

Booking Link 

West Sussex Sustainable Business Showcase is part of the ‘Let’s Go! Net Zero’ West Sussex initiative, brought to you by West Sussex County Council and the West Sussex District & Borough Councils.

Mayo Wynne Baxter boosts firm’s profile with strategic new hires and promotions

Mayo Wynne Baxter has expanded its private client team with new hires and several internal promotions, augmenting its position as the South East’s leading law firm.

The Lewes office has welcomed three new recruits, including solicitor Sara Bashir who will now specialise in all matters relating to trusts, and taxation whilst also advising on estate administration and planning, wills and powers of attorney.

Chartered legal executive Angie Dodsworth bolsters the growing general team with her wide area of expertise, including estate planning, administration of estates, drafting wills and lasting powers of attorney.

Robin Webb, who achieved an LLB from Sussex University in May 2023, joins as a paralegal just six months into his career.

And at the Storrington office, solicitor Charlotte Brunning adds her expertise in wills, probate and powers of attorney to the already strong team.

Dean Orgill, chief executive at Mayo Wynne Baxter, said: “Our recent recruitment drive demonstrates that we’re attracting some of the best talent in the industry, as well as encouraging the bright young stars of tomorrow.”

The law firm is also celebrating three promotions in the private client team.

Megan Child, who works out of East Grinstead, has moved from her position as a paralegal to legal advisor.

Alisha Croft from the Lewes office changes from a junior paralegal into the legal team supporting two legal advisers and Jess Forde of the Storrington office, leaves her position as an administrative legal support assistant to become a legal paralegal.

Orgill added: “When you’ve got great talent you want to hold onto it – which is why we invest so much time in progressing everyone’s careers and opening up pathways to success.”

For more information, please visit: www.mayowynnebaxter.co.uk

Celebrating 35 Years of Loyal Service

Keen gardener Karen Capelin has seen her career with Carpenter Box blossom since joining the Sussex and South East accountants in May 1989.

Karen, from Worthing, joined the firm’s computer department straight from college aged 17 with a BTEC HND qualification in computer programming. Now, 35 years on, she is a Senior Manager and one of the firm’s longest serving members of staff.

Karen works in the firm’s Business Services Group, having swapped IT to become a trainee accountant, before progressing to qualified status and becoming a Fellow of the Association of Chartered Certified Accountants.

“I can’t believe how quickly the years have passed,” says Karen. “I’ve enjoyed plenty of variety in my work since the early days and received lots of support for my career along the way. I’ve seen many changes as the firm has grown, but what hasn’t changed is the very friendly working environment.”

In her current role, Karen looks after the statutory accounting requirements of many small businesses, including those involved in farming and viticulture. She particularly enjoys working with companies in the burgeoning vineyards sector.

Alan Edwards, Managing Partner at Carpenter Box, added: “Congratulations to Karen on reaching this milestone. Her professionalism, dedication and hard work underpins the first-class service she provides to our clients and makes her an invaluable member of the team.”

When not at work, Karen enjoys spending time with her family and can often be found working in her garden.  

www.carpenterbox.com

Transport for the South East want to hear from you

News from Transport Planning and Policy Team at West Sussex County Council...

"Our partners at Transport for the South East (TfSE) are undertaking a refresh of their Transport Strategy for the South East.

TfSE brings together a partnership of 16 local authorities and 8.3 million residents in our region with the aim of speaking with one voice to central government about our transport priorities.

As part of this refresh, they want to hear from you as they develop their priorities for the future, ensuring funding and strategy decisions are led by local knowledge.

They are engaging with the public through their online Your Voices survey to ensure the new strategy is fully co-designed, and as representative of the residents of the south east as possible.

As one of TfSE’s key partners, we want West Sussex residents, organisations and businesses to be involved in this process.

You can respond to the survey here until June 2.

If you want to know more about TfSE and their strategic role for the region you can visit their website at tfse.org.uk or get in touch by email at tfse@eastsussex.gov.uk

Thank you"

Debbie Stevens Wellbeing Achieves Community Interest Company Status, Aiming to Transform Communities Through Holistic Support

Debbie Stevens Wellbeing proudly announces its recent achievement in receiving Community Interest Company (CIC) status, marking a significant milestone in its commitment to serving communities with holistic wellness solutions. Founded by Debbie Stevens, a dedicated advocate for mental and physical health, the organisation aims to revolutionise community support systems and foster resilience in individuals.

Receiving the Community Interest Company status signifies a pivotal moment for Debbie Stevens, whose passion for enhancing community well-being has been the driving force behind her endeavour’s. Debbie remarks, "I am truly honoured and thrilled to achieve CIC status for Debbie Stevens Wellbeing. This recognition reaffirms our dedication to making a tangible difference in the lives of individuals and communities, empowering them to lead healthier, more fulfilling lives."

At the heart of Debbie Stevens Wellbeing's mission is its unique holistic model, designed to address the multifaceted challenges faced by modern society. Through a comprehensive approach that encompasses mental, emotional, and physical well-being, Debbie Stevens and her team are committed to supporting overwhelmed communities and equipping individuals with the tools for self-awareness and self-help management.

“Our holistic approach is centred around the belief that true wellness encompasses mind, body, and spirit," explains Debbie Stevens. "We understand the pressures and stresses of today's world, which is why we're dedicated to providing support that goes beyond traditional measures. By addressing stress conditions, anxiety, pain, and more, we aim to foster resilience and empower individuals to thrive."

Debbie Stevens Wellbeing will focus on collaborating with schools, organisations, community groups, and healthcare professionals to deliver tailored wellness programs. These programs will not only alleviate immediate stressors but also lay the foundation for a healthier, happier, and more resilient community, nurturing the leaders of tomorrow.

As Debbie Stevens Wellbeing embarks on this new chapter as a Community Interest Company, it invites individuals and organisations from the community to join hands in creating positive change and building a brighter future for all. Contact us to discuss your needs, resources, and funding opportunities. 01903 690627.

Hybrid working a hit with Carpenter Box staff

Hybrid working is good for people and good for business, according to a staff survey carried out by South East accountancy firm, Carpenter Box.

The practice, which employs 250 staff across its network of six offices, asked for feedback on the work environment and found that more flexible working introduced post-COVID contributed to nine in 10 staff happy with their current working environments. The hybrid options, together with staff resourcing and other key workplace metrics, contributed to a year-on-year 40% increase in the firm’s Employee Net Promoter Score - which measures employee satisfaction.

Managing Partner, Alan Edwards, commented: “The results of our annual staff survey illustrate the value of an organisation like ours adopting a flexible working environment both from an employee and business perspective.  We can see improving sentiment in work-life balance and positive outcomes linked to day-to-day support and how individuals feel they contribute to our overall success.

“There are still some areas where there is room for improvement, but overall I’m very pleased with the results, with three quarters saying they believe they can reach their full potential here and nearly nine in 10 feeling proud to work at Carpenter Box. This is particularly satisfying because over the past year we have driven a strong corporate expansion programme, including bigger premises in Brighton and new offices established in Hampshire.”

www.carpenterbox.com

George Square Financial Management Latest Economic Update

In conjunction with Albemarle Street Partners

Good Problems and Data Dependence

As the global economy continues to improve, it's becoming clear that many of the challenges we face are a result of our own success. 

The strength of labour markets across the developed world underpins household resilience and broader economic growth. The manufacturing sector appears to be exiting a drawn-out period of retrenchment and even housing activity has started to level out. While the pessimists will point to the lingering risks from higher interest rates, investors will take solace from an improvement in economic data. 

Central banks face a delicate balancing act as they argue for monetary prudence in the face of sticky inflation and robust job markets. The Federal Reserve has maintained data dependence and removed promises of rate cuts in 2024, while the Bank of England and European Central Bank are likely to cut rates gradually. 

Corporate Earnings in Focus

Continued economic strength is a good problem for risk assets as we approach a turn in corporate profits. Exposure to risky assets, such as equities and high yield debt, is warranted given the backdrop of improving profits and financial conditions.

At the midpoint of the US reporting season, 77% of companies have reported a positive EPS surprise, with earnings growth for the first quarter standing at 3.5% and revenue growth at 4.0%. Analysts project earnings growth of 11% and revenue growth of 4.9% for 2024. The strong performance is led by Communication Services, Utilities, and Information Technology companies, highlighting the resilience of these sectors in the face of economic challenges.

Elevated expected returns 

Investors must carefully select which regions and sectors to include in their portfolios while remaining vigilant and prepared to adjust holdings as global economic and market conditions evolve. 

Fixed income assets have experienced a setback over the last month as economic growth has remained strong and progress on inflation has stalled. As government bond yields have moved higher, high yield and corporate bond funds have experienced setbacks. The good news is that yields across fixed income now provide attractive risk adjusted returns to investors. Patient investors are being paid to wait in fixed income assets and multi-asset investors benefit from the diversification these holdings provide. Monetary policy should allow an orderly decline in inflation, even if it takes slightly longer than anticipated.

Equity markets were down 3% over the month. US, European and Japanese equities fell as investors reassessed the risk to corporate profits from higher interest rates. UK large and mid-cap equities were notable gainers over the month as investors sought the safety of higher dividend yields and cheaper valuations. Asian equities also rallied as better economic data buoyed the case for the region. 

Conclusion

We started 2024 with a focus on expected returns and a need to broaden our equity market exposure to include smaller companies. Our first step in this direction was in February and we envisage an additional step later this month. We will continue to monitor corporate earnings and incoming economic data to assess portfolio risks and will make changes if required. 

Parry Leggett Dip PFS EFA

Bird & Blend Tea Co have been featured in the Sunday Times Best Places to Work 2024, powered by WorkL! Here's what they had to say!

The article is celebrating companies that are doing a great job of engaging & supporting people of all ages with work that’s meaningful, purposeful and inspiring - which speaks directly to what we are all about, so we really couldn’t be more chuffed. "

The list highlights the UK’s top-ranking employers in six key areas: reward and recognition, information sharing, empowerment, well-being, instilling pride, and job satisfaction. To make the list, each company must achieve a minimum response rate (based on its size) and be ranked above 70 per cent by its own workforce. Although the final listing is determined by an engagement score average, a highly engaged workplace must perform well in all six areas.

Our founding mission statement (written on the back of a napkin over 10 years ago) was to: ‘Prove you could build a successful business that based its decisions on people & planet, not just profit’.

Fast forward to today, and our core strategic purpose is to be known and loved as a great place to work, and so to receive this kind of recognition is something we’re hugely proud of.

Check out all of the companies that made this year's Times Best Places To Work list. https://www.thetimes.co.uk/static/best-places-to-work-2024-introfeature/

Needless to say, we are thrilled to be celebrated for our ‘refreshing approach’ by The Sunday Times: ‘At Worthing-based Bird & Blend Tea, for instance, co-founders Krisi Smith and Mike Turner know all 164 employees by name and initiatives including paid volunteering days and a monthly tea allowance make life at work feel sweet.’

Huge shout out to our incredible, magical & trailblazing TEAm whose passion, dedication & creativity make Bird & Blend what it is!

New Chair and Trustees for Worthing Theatres & Museum 

Worthing Theatres & Museum (WTM) is an arts and heritage charity on the South Coast looking to recruit a new Chair and Trustees to join our Board. We are looking for committed, enthusiastic individuals who share our values and vision. We are keen to hear from applicants from a range of backgrounds and experience, both locally and further afield, who could bring expertise that benefits the Charity. In particular we are interested in those with experience in one or more of the following areas:

● Theatre and Arts Finances

● Fundraising

● Subsidised and Commercial Theatre Producing

● Equity, Diversity and Inclusion

● Strategic Business Planning

● Digital

We particularly encourage applications from candidates who have previously been underrepresented at WTM and in the industry. Why join us?

Trusteeship at WTM provides an opportunity to participate in, oversee and lead a diverse, vibrant and growing charity. It is a chance to be impactful and have a voice in the local community, influence strategy, finance, operations and future plans for the Charity and collaborate with experienced individuals who share a passion for arts and heritage.

Most importantly we look forward to meeting people who are committed to driving WTM forward in achieving Our Vision of a community in which everyone’s lives are enriched through vibrant, exceptional arts and heritage.

How To Apply

The HR team will be accepting applications on behalf of the Board, to apply please send a covering letter outlining why you are interested along with a CV to hradmin@wtm.uk

Deadline to apply: 13th June 2024

If you would like an informal chat with one of our Trustees, have any questions or want to know more about becoming a Trustee please email hradmin@wtm.uk

Could you be an Industry Mentor at Shoreham Academy?

The Careers Team at Shoreham Academy are seeking employers to participate in their Thinking Futures programme for Year 12 students, which will take place from Monday 8^th to Thursday 11^th July. 

"You/your organisation would act as a mentor for a group of students for whom you set a project. ( The school will support you in this)  (The students choose a brief from those on offer that will enable them to develop skills relevant to their career aspirations.)

At the beginning of the week the mentor meets with the team of students to set the project. They then check in with them halfway through the week to discuss their progress. At the end of the week the students present their work to the industry mentor and receive feedback. Meetings can be in-person or virtual. Students are supported in school to produce high-quality work."

You can read this booklet for all the information