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Senior associate solicitor joins Gorvins Solicitors

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Senior associate solicitor joins Gorvins Solicitors

Stockport-headquartered Gorvins Solicitors has appointed a new senior associate solicitor to the firm’s family team.

Ainsley Pritchard (pictured) has specialised in family and children law since she qualified in 1998. Her areas of expertise include financial settlements, child arrangements and disputes, divorce and unmarried couples disputes.

Wealth of knowledge

With vast experience spanning more than two decades, Ainsley brings a wealth of knowledge and proficiency to the practice amassed across various head of family department roles across the North West.

Having trained as a family mediator, she is also a member of Resolution, the organisation of family law professionals who work with families and individuals to resolve disputes constructively.

With roots dating back more than 150 years, Gorvins Solicitors is a full-service law firm with 16 partners and more than 100 employees.

Ainsley Pritchard, senior associate solicitor at Gorvins Solicitors, said: “I’m proud to have joined one of the North West’s leading law firms and look forward to helping families with their respective requirements.”

Mark Deverell, managing partner at Gorvins, said: “Ainsley is a seasoned professional at family law and a highly complementary addition to the existing team. Our family law team has a comprehensive range of experience that makes a real difference to the lives of the clients we represent and we’re very proud of the work that it undertakes.”

New inspirational ‘women in tech’ podcast launched

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New inspirational ‘women in tech’ podcast launched

A Greater Manchester initiative that encourages women into the tech industry has launched its new podcast.

Digital Her has been developed and run by tech trade body Manchester Digital since 2019 and was set up to support women into tech careers.

The Digital Her podcast brings together women from its 350-strong community to have a series of inspiring conversations about what the tech industry has to offer, its opportunities, as well as topics that affect many people such as understanding imposter syndrome or moving into leadership roles.

Presented and produced by programme lead Kirsten Peters Roebuck with special guest hosts, the first episode is now live, with four more being launched each week in the first series.

The first episode is about Fintech careers, with guests Zahraa Murtaza from GFT; and Sian English and Jo Gibson from Bankifi.

Encouraging women into the tech industry

Katie Gallagher, managing director of Manchester Digital, who spearheaded the programme, said: “We’re really proud to officially launch our Digital Her podcast which will help spread our message further and continue to encourage more women into the tech industry.

“By bringing together different voices from women with different journeys and different paths into their tech roles, we can share their experiences and understand the various challenges that women have experienced in the tech industry.”

Digital Her podcast episodes

The podcast features guests from Digital Her sponsors including Atkins, AutoTrader UK, BAE Systems Digital Intelligence and hackajob, as well as a host of Manchester Digital members.

The following episode themes are: imposter syndrome and whether it’s real; careers in cyber security; first roles in leadership and careers in geospatial technology.

The Digital Her podcast is available from all podcast platforms and can be found here.

A Simple 13 Step Guide in Managing Your Online Presence

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A Simple 13 Step Guide in Managing Your Online Presence

In an era where the digital landscape is in perpetual evolution, nurturing a potent online presence has become non-negotiable for businesses in the UK. Grasping and proficiently managing your digital footprint can foster enhanced brand recognition, fortified customer relations, and a surge in sales. In this guide, penned by Stanislav Kondrashov, we explore vital strategies and tools that UK businesses can utilise to manage their online presence adeptly.

Understanding the UK digital ecosystem

Before you immerse yourself in strategies, it’s paramount to comprehend the digital ecosystem in the UK. Britain houses one of the most sophisticated digital markets worldwide, with a large chunk of its populace actively utilising the internet for various activities including shopping, gathering information, and engaging with brands. Therefore, your online presence must be agile, receptive, and tailored to the needs and preferences of the UK audience.

Step 1: Crafting a unified online strategy

Pinpoint your goals and kpis

Define clear objectives for your online presence, ranging from amplifying brand awareness to augmenting sales. Establish Key Performance Indicators (KPIs) to track your progress and modify strategies as necessary.

Comprehend your Audience

Undertake market research to pinpoint your target audience’s demographics, preferences, and behaviours. Utilise tools like Google Analytics to amass data and develop a customer persona.

Step 2: Website development and optimisation

Responsive website

Ensure your website is responsive and mobile-friendly, given that a significant portion of internet traffic in the UK originates from mobile devices.

SEO strategy

Formulate an SEO strategy to elevate your website’s visibility on search engines. Utilise keywords pertinent to your business and the UK market, optimise meta descriptions, and ensure website speed and user-friendliness.

Step 3: Harnessing social media

Select the appropriate platforms

Concentrate on platforms that are popular in the UK, such as Facebook, Twitter, Instagram, and LinkedIn. Tailor your approach based on the nature of each platform and your target audience’s predilections.

Engaging content

Craft engaging content that resonates with your audience. Employ visuals, infographics, and videos to capture attention and encourage shares.

Social media advertising

Contemplate leveraging paid advertising on social media to reach a broader audience. Target ads based on user demographics, interests, and behaviours to achieve better ROI.

Step 4: Online reputation management

Monitor online reviews

Keep a vigilant eye on online reviews on platforms such as Google My Business, Trustpilot, and Yelp. Encourage satisfied customers to leave positive reviews and respond to negative reviews in a professional manner, addressing any concerns raised.

Crisis management

Develop a crisis management plan to address potential negative publicity swiftly and professionally, minimising damage to your brand reputation.

Step 5: Content marketing

Blogging

Develop a blog section on your website to disseminate valuable information and insights pertinent to your industry. Employ SEO techniques to enhance visibility and drive traffic to your website.

Guest posting

Consider guest posting on relevant industry blogs and websites to reach a broader audience and build backlinks to your website, improving SEO.

Step 6: Email marketing

Cultivating a mailing list

Cultivate a mailing list by offering value in exchange for email addresses, such as discounts, freebies, or exclusive content.

Personalised campaigns

Craft personalised email campaigns to nurture relationships with your customers, offering tailored recommendations and promotions.

Step 7: Analytics and adjustments

Utilise analytics tools

Leverage analytics tools to monitor your online presence and gather data on user behaviours, traffic sources, and conversion rates.

Make data-driven adjustments

Utilise the data collected to make informed adjustments to your strategies, optimising for better results.

Step 8: Legal compliance

GDPR compliance

Ensure your online activities comply with the General Data Protection Regulation (GDPR), safeguarding user data and respecting privacy rights.

Cookie policy

Implement a clear cookie policy on your website, informing users about the use of cookies and obtaining consent where necessary.

Step 9: Engaging with the community

Social responsibility

Engage with the community through corporate social responsibility initiatives, showcasing your brand’s values and building goodwill.

This enhanced guide should serve as a practical roadmap for UK businesses looking to bolster their online presence, whilst adhering to the linguistic nuances of UK English.

Oldham-based HPP Ltd ready for major KBB industry showcase

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Oldham-based HPP Ltd ready for major KBB industry showcase

Hill’s Panel Products (HPP) Ltd is forging exciting partnerships to put itself ahead of the game in the kitchen, bedroom, and bathroom (KBB) industry.

Based in Oldham and known for supplying board, doors, fittings, and accessories, HPP is bringing partners together under one roof to showcase its latest products, initiatives and developments at a full-day event called HPX.

This includes an updated handle range featuring new finishes in line with the latest trends, including a designer range by Deborah Hill. Additionally, HPP is introducing significant additions to its Avanti stock doors.

HPX showcase

HPX is set to take place at the Village Hotel in Ashton-under-Lyne on Friday, September 29.

It’s an excellent opportunity for HPP’s existing retail partners and any retailers interested in learning more about the company.

This event marks HPP’s first large-scale exhibition since its successful HPX event back in 2011.

Prominent names in the KBB industry

Some prominent names from the KBB industry are participating this time, including Blum, Kronospan, EGGER, Sensio, Reginox, ArtiCAD, and VIBO.

Attendees will see Blum introducing its much-anticipated Revego pocket door system – a UK debut.

Kronospan is showcasing its newly launched Global collection and an upcoming worktop range whilst EGGER is unveiling a new decorative collection set to launch in 2024, along with displaying its TM9 super-matt product.

Sensio, the lighting specialist, will be showcasing its latest products and technology. Italian wirework supplier IVBO is focusing on its upgraded collection with an anthracite finish and the premium Lamina offering. ArtiCAD will feature HPP’s updated doors and décor catalogue on its software visualisation platform.

This event offers retailers a fantastic opportunity to engage with senior representatives from HPP and the exhibiting companies, as well as network with fellow retailers in attendance.

Furthermore, the day will shed light on HPP’s charity partner, Mahdlo Youth Zone, with representatives explaining the organisation’s essential work within the Oldham community, catering to young people aged 8-19, and up to 25 for those with additional needs or disabilities.

Grant Thornton boosts school leaver intake to record high

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Grant Thornton boosts school leaver intake to record high

Leading business and financial adviser Grant Thornton UK LLP is set to welcome a record 213 school leavers onto its apprenticeship programme this year. This is a 13% increase compared to 2022 (188) and the highest number ever welcomed by the firm in one intake. 

This year, for the first time, the ratio of school leavers and graduates joining the firm’s audit department – which hires the largest number of trainees in the business – reached over a 50:50 split, with more school leavers than graduates joining the function.

Grant Thornton is also set to welcome a record number of new joiners to its overall trainee intake, with 496 school leavers and graduates joining the firm this year combined.  

As well as welcoming its new trainee intake, the firm, which is a founding member of Access Accountancy, is set to offer 218 work experience placements to sixth form students through the scheme this year – a significant increase compared to 2022 (131). 

Carl Williams, Managing Partner at Grant Thornton UK LLP in the North West, said: “The fight for talent in the accountancy profession is fierce and, at Grant Thornton, we’ve been evolving our approach to identifying talent for several years now, with much more of a focus on future potential and strengths, as opposed to past achievements and academic profile. Our focus on increasing our school leaver intake has allowed us to access a new, diverse talent pool that we would previously have been missing. 

“The school leaver apprenticeship route offers an excellent path into the profession for young students. Our school leavers develop into well rounded business advisers, gain an internationally recognised qualification and become professionally qualified a year ahead of their peers who choose to go to university and then join our graduate programme. 

“There are now many different routes available for young people considering a career in accountancy, but we know that misconceptions remain about how to enter the profession. Our continued involvement in important initiatives such as Access Accountancy, helps us to reach young people still at school who would most benefit from the opportunity for work experience and to gain invaluable insight into the profession and the routes available to them.” 

Georgia Wright is an audit associate based in Manchester. She joined the firm’s school leaver apprenticeship programme two years ago: “I knew that I would not thrive at university and wanted to kickstart my career in a role that involved numbers, so getting straight into a job was the best decision for me.   

“The school leaver apprenticeship route has built my confidence and given me independence. Getting paid whilst training meant I could afford to move out of my parents’ house and live independently. I also love that my exams directly correlate to a qualification that will open many doors in the future.” 

Salford’s Leep Utilities appoints Richard Long to lead heat solutions

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Salford’s Leep Utilities appoints Richard Long to lead heat solutions

Salford-headquartered Leep Utilities – the UK’s leading owner and operator of last-mile utility networks – has appointed Richard Long as director of heat.

In the newly created role, Richard will lead the development of Leep’s heat business, providing customers with innovative and sustainable heat solutions.

He has also played a key role in the development of the company’s heat strategy, and the direction and recent publication of its Heat Solutions brochure.

Richard is a leading expert in the UK’s heat market and has more than 30 years’ experience
delivering bespoke conventional and renewable heat solutions. This includes combined heat and power (CHP), district heating, heat pumps, biomass, wind, waste, heat storage, nuclear and other low carbon technologies.

Broad range of experience

In addition, Richard has worked for leading energy companies including Eon, British Gas and Engie.

He brings a broad range of experience to Leep, having developed solutions to customers in the commercial, industrial, residential, water and public sectors. He has previously worked with Leep on a consultancy basis.

As director of heat, Richard will be responsible for leading Leep’s current heat activities and future growth within the sector – supported by the company’s industry-leading delivery, operational and business development functions.

Expansion plans

Richard’s appointment will further support Leep’s expansion plans. In July, the last mile network utility operator secured additional investment from its majority shareholders Ancala Partners and The Peel Group.

The new investment is helping Leep to deliver its significant order book and roll out
new sites across the UK, along with further investing into its decarbonised heat initiatives.

Over the past year, Leep has doubled its vehicle fleet and increased its headcount by more than 80 per cent. The business now has a workforce of over 130 people.

Louise Manfredi, CEO of Leep Utilities, said: “We’re delighted to welcome Richard to Leep. His experience and expertise in low carbon, urban heat projects will help us further enhance our heat proposition. We can’t wait to work alongside him to provide innovative and sustainable heat solutions to our customers.”

Growth and development

Richard said: “I’m excited to be joining the team at Leep Utilities to further develop its successful heat business. Leep’s growth speaks for itself.

“I am really impressed by the potential of Leep’s existing MediaCityUK heat network, the breadth of its multi-utility business and the strength of the entire team.”

Leep’s new Heat Solutions brochure – highlighting the company’s knowledge and expertise in designing, funding, delivering and operating heat solutions for residential, commercial and industrial developments and retrofit – can be downloaded here.

Experiencing Luxury at Its Finest: Finding the Right Country Club

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Experiencing Luxury at Its Finest: Finding the Right Country Club

For those seeking an escape from the ordinary and a taste of luxury, joining a country club can be a ticket to the ultimate luxury lifestyle. However, before taking the plunge into this exclusive world, several important considerations must be remembered. In this article, we’ll explore the factors you should weigh before becoming a country club member, all in pursuit of the coveted luxurious life.

Cost of Membership

Luxury often comes with an expensive price tag, and joining a country club is no exception. Before committing, carefully examine the membership fees, initiation costs, and monthly dues. Ensure that these expenses align with your financial capabilities and long-term goals. Additionally, inquire about any hidden costs or assessments that may arise during your membership.

Location and Accessibility

Country clubs are typically located in serene, picturesque settings, offering a respite from urban life. Consider the club’s proximity to your home or workplace, as ease of access will impact how frequently you can enjoy its amenities. Additionally, think about whether the club offers overnight. Prillionaires News offers insight into the best accommodations for guests or special events, which can be a significant convenience factor.

Amenities and Services

Every country club offers a distinct set of amenities, ranging from championship golf courses and cutting-edge fitness centers to gourmet dining experiences and lavish spa facilities. As you evaluate your options, consider what aligns best with your luxury lifestyle aspirations. Prillionaires News emphasizes the importance of selecting a club that not only epitomizes luxury but also provides services and activities tailored to your preferences. Making the right choice ensures that you immerse yourself in an environment that truly resonates with your desires.

Membership Demographics

Country clubs often have a specific demographic of members. Some clubs cater to families, while others target golf enthusiasts, socialites, or those seeking a business network. Consider whether the club’s membership aligns with your interests and social circle, as this will enhance your overall experience and networking opportunities.

Club Culture and Rules

Different clubs have distinct cultures and rules dictating behaviour, dress code, etc. It’s crucial to feel comfortable with the club’s atmosphere and values. Attend club events or gatherings to understand the culture and whether it aligns with your expectations and lifestyle.

Guest Privileges

Inquire about the club’s guest access and fee policies if you plan to entertain guests regularly. Some clubs may limit guest privileges, while others offer more flexibility. Understanding these rules will help you plan your social engagements and ensure your guests can enjoy the luxury experience.

Financial Stability and Reputation

Research the club’s financial stability and reputation within the community. Speak with current members and assess online reviews to gauge the club’s track record for member satisfaction and overall quality. A well-established, reputable club will likely provide a consistent luxury experience.

Future Plans and Renovations

Inquire about the club’s plans and potential renovations. A club committed to continuous improvement may offer a more appealing long-term investment. However, be aware of any disruptions these renovations might cause during your membership.

Conclusion

Joining a country club can be a gateway to a luxurious lifestyle filled with many amenities, social opportunities, and a serene retreat from daily life. However, it’s essential to consider the above mentioned factors before making this significant commitment. A conversant decision will ultimately lead to a more fulfilling and enjoyable experience at your chosen country club.

Junior doctors and consultants join forces for major NHS strike today

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Junior doctors and consultants join forces for major NHS strike today

A major NHS strike is taking place in the North West today and it’s the first time junior doctors and consultants have joined forces in doing so.

The walk outs are set to cause major disruptions for patients.

Consultants are still disputing pay and will walk out today and for three days in October (2 – 4 ).

Junior doctors – who have already held 19 days of strike action since March – will walk out today, Thursday and Friday, and October 2-4.

Today’s strike, plus the three days next month, will see both consultants and junior doctors absent from work on the same days.

Yesterday, 51 consultants at the Royal Preston Hospital began a 48-hour strike, and today they will be joined by junior doctors for a three-day strike. This is the first time both groups are striking together, and it will seriously impact hospital services.

Hospital staff have been preparing for this strike for three weeks, making sure the sickest patients get the care they need. This means 120 routine surgeries have been cancelled this week.

What are the strikes about?

Earlier this year, the government increased consultants’ pay by 6%, but senior doctors say their take-home pay has actually gone down by more than a third in the last 14 years.

Both consultants and doctors say the solution is simple: better pay.

This strike is happening at one of the toughest times for the NHS, as pressures are mounting.

Waiting lists are already at a record high, with 7.7 million people waiting for treatment, and this number is likely to increase unless a solution is found.

How the strikes will affect people

Emergency care will still be available, but planned treatments are likely to be postponed, affecting thousands of appointments.

NHS leaders are concerned because they’ve never seen such a big strike before, and they expect patients to be at risk.

Faith Button, chief operating officer at Lancashire Teaching Hospitals, is urging the government and unions to get back to the negotiating table and resolve the strikes as soon as possible, especially with winter approaching.

The next joint strike is planned to coincide with the Conservative Party Conference in Manchester next month.

Events Industry Prepares for Busiest Corporate Christmas Party Season in Two Decades

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Events Industry Prepares for Busiest Corporate Christmas Party Season in Two Decades

Despite ongoing economic challenges, the events industry is gearing up for one of the most robust corporate Christmas party seasons in over twenty years, according to new research by  Christmas party planning experts Poptop, a leading online events booking platform. As corporate Christmas party bookings surge, there is growing concern about whether the industry can meet the increased demand.

The Festive Party Planning Boom Poptop conducted research involving more than 420 corporate clients to assess the health of the events market leading up to the Christmas season, a vital source of seasonal revenue for the sector. The results revealed a remarkable uptick in corporate Christmas party activity, surpassing the previous year’s demand and representing the strongest festive season demand in potentially more than two decades. Additionally, companies are planning these events much earlier than usual, with over a quarter of them locking in their Christmas party plans as early as June. This early surge in bookings challenges the traditional trend of corporate bookings increasing from October onwards.

Growing Demands from the Corporate Sector The surge in demand for corporate events extends beyond Christmas parties, with a 68% increase in corporate events bookings compared to pre-pandemic levels in Summer 2023. The increased demand for end-of-year celebrations is likely due, in part, to a growing emphasis on staff well-being.

Hybrid working arrangements have gained popularity among UK workforces, leading to higher job satisfaction and personal autonomy. However, this approach also poses challenges, such as team members becoming isolated, reduced productivity, and diminishing staff bonds. Smart HR departments are using corporate activities, including team-building and family days, to counteract these issues and strengthen team connections.

A New Era of Christmas Party Trends With an increased focus on regular corporate events, the party industry is receiving greater attention from corporate party planners. As a result, meticulous planning of events in advance, as seen in the 25% rise in early festive bookings, has become the norm. This attention to detail extends to the nature of the events themselves.

Rather than traditional boozy gatherings, corporate party planners are thinking outside the box. Family-friendly parties and themed events, such as live-action murder mystery parties, are growing in popularity. Categories such as street food, mobile bars, DJs, and music, along with in-office parties, are gaining traction as companies seek to offer unique and memorable experiences while managing their budgets.

Can the Industry Match Demand? While the increased demand is undoubtedly good news for the events sector, there remains a potential question mark. Post-COVID, the industry saw up to a 30% drop in supplier numbers, and “cost of living” challenges have continued to affect some suppliers in recent years. Concerns exist among sector leaders about whether there are enough suppliers to handle such a high volume of incoming bookings. However, the industry remains resilient and hopeful, with suppliers who persevered during challenging times poised for the busiest festive period in their professional careers.

Eugene Shestopal, CEO of Poptop UK, commented on the research findings: “Our research shows the rise in demand for Christmas corporate party bookings is absolutely unprecedented. We’re seeing massive growth in the corporate sector of our marketplace, with bookings coming in as early as June in many cases. It’s no exaggeration to say the groundwork is in place for the busiest festive period for the events industry in over twenty years. And whilst there are concerns over the industry’s ability to meet demand, I’m sure we speak for all our suppliers on Poptop when we say – bring it on!’

Manchester podcaster Simon Ursell hosts Google’s Kirk Vallis

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Manchester podcaster Simon Ursell hosts Google’s Kirk Vallis

In the newest episode of The Bounce Backability podcast, Google’s Kirk Vallis takes centre stage as the latest thought leader and innovator to grace the show co-hosted by Manchester’s Simon Ursell.

Simon is the managing director of Manchester B Corp’s environmental consultancy Tyler Grange, and Rusty Earnshaw who also presents, is a renowned performance coach and consultant.

As Google’s global head of creative capability development, Kirk has been a fixture at the global tech giant for the past 11 years, and has not only been instrumental in crafting innovation frameworks but has also been a guiding force in fostering the right behaviours, mindset, and techniques needed to unlock creativity and fresh thinking.

Google’s corporate culture, imbued with this approach, has resulted in a happier, more motivated, and ultimately more productive workforce, positively impacting the bottom line.

People in the innovation process

During the engaging 50-minute episode, Vallis emphasises the pivotal role of people in the innovation process, with technology serving as the tool that accelerates and emboldens this creative journey.

Listeners gain insights into becoming creative leaders while nurturing creative capabilities throughout an organisation.

The discussion also delves into leveraging creativity for problem-solving and outlines the essential steps leaders should take to create an environment conducive to optimal thinking. Whether it’s a routine internal meeting, a brainstorming session, or the development of audacious business proposals, Vallis provides valuable guidance.

AI and creativity

Additionally, the podcast explores the intriguing intersection of AI and creativity, contemplating whether AI will surpass human creativity.

Simon praises Vallis for his decade-long dedication to shaping such a vibrant and appealing workplace. He also underscores the value of embracing failure as an opportunity for growth and learning, echoing Vallis’s philosophy.

Listen now

Listeners can access Kirk Vallis’s insights here. It’s also available on Amazon, Spotify, Buzzsprout, Listen Notes and Player FM.

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