Email News October 2009
Foreword
Welcome to the October issue of email news. This month's issue looks at a range of important issues for marine businesses. It includes details of a visit to Southampton by International Trade Minister Lord Davies, highlights of the Kent Skills Festival being held next week and the launch of SEEDA's new refit facility. Read on to find out more...
Posted 2009-09-01 12:29:36
Minister encourages UK’s marine sector to “Take it to the World”
Lord Davies of Abersoch, Minister for Trade, visited Southampton last month to celebrate the success of the marine sector and to underline the importance of international trade in helping the UK out of recession.
The visit was a result of Marine South East CEO Jonathan Williams presenting the results of the Global Opportunities Research to the Marine Steering Group, which included Lord Davies. The presentation prompted the Minister to decide to organise a number of regional visits, the first of which was a visit to Southampton to focus on the marine sector. With its strong maritime heritage, Southampton was chosen for what is the first in a series of road shows encouraging firms across the country to "Take it to the World".
Lord Davies visited successful exporters from the marine industry, highlighting the fact that trading internationally helps firms weather the downturn, and the conviction that the revival of economic growth will be export led. Companies he visited and others he met during a lunch hosted by Associated British Ports included Oyster Yachts, Hyde Sails, Southampton Yacht Services and the Unmanned Underwater Vehicle Showcase, the annual conference of the Society for Underwater Technology's Underwater Robotics Group.
During the visit Lord Davies commented: "The South East is a cornerstone of Britain's marine sector, an industry which is worth an estimated £5 billion to the region, sustaining over 105,000 jobs. British marine companies are leading the way with ideas and products that represent the very best of innovation and research in the marine sector."
Jonathan Williams accompanied the minister on his visit and commented " UK marine industries generate £100,000 of sales for every employee, much of it by exports. This success provides a platform for further growth. There are over 4,000 companies in the region supplying marine markets, and over half are highly dependent on the sector."
UKTI's Take it to the World national campaign was launched by the Prime Minister in March. The campaign includes a series of regional roadshows as well as advertising in airports, train platforms and business publications. It sends a strong message to UK businesses to explore opportunities overseas with confidence. Despite the global economic downturn, significant business opportunities abroad remain for UK companies to tap into. This is why UKTI is building on its existing efforts to promote the benefits of exporting and practical support available.
If you would like to find out more about international trade advice from UKTI South East you can contact them by phone on 08452 789600, email info@uktisoutheast.com or visit http://www.uktisoutheast.com
Posted 2009-10-01 10:32:59
SEEDA launches Superyacht refit facility in Southampton
The South East England Development Agency (SEEDA) has recently opened a new Superyacht refit and repair facility at its Hythe Marine Park site in Southampton.
The site includes a ship lift that can handle yachts up to 70 metres long,. It will be available to hired by superyacht managers, captains, boatyards and superyacht traders and suppliers for their own projects or they can access the on-site network of expertise. Extensive working deep water berths, moorings and lay ups can accommodate large yachts up to 90 metres in length and undercover working areas for yachts up to 45 metres is provided.
Owned and run by SEEDA, the new independent facility for Superyachts will be managed on a day to day basis by Yacht Project Associates and CB Richard Ellis. Situated on the west bank of Southampton Water, Solent Refit is ideally located for easy access to southern Europe, by water and by air, being just 20 minutes from Southampton airport. Solent Refit is located at Hythe Marine Park, a centre of marine excellence developed by SEEDA and occupied by a number of marine companies.
Paul Flatt, SEEDA's Senior Development Manager said: "The site is ideally positioned to attract some of Europe's most prestigious large yachts, being suitable for refit and repair projects typically undertaken by many UK companies, who have for many years excelled overseas in the Superyacht refit market. The availability of this independent facility will help overcome one of the main barriers to growth for those companies, by providing a local facility available for hire."
Further information can be obtained by visiting http://www.solentrefit.com or by e-mailing paulflatt@seeda.co.uk
Posted 2009-10-01 11:01:25
New export website launched in South East
UK Trade and Investment (UKTI) South East has recently launched a new web forum called 'Export Talk'. The service aims to complement the range of export-related services that UKTI offers and will be an indispensable online support service for exporting advice and networking opportunities.
More details on the benefit of the website to companies will be published in the Autumn issue of Marine South East's printed newsletter. Look out for this in the next few weeks.
If you would like to find out more in the meantime log onto the site UKTI website at http://www.uktisoutheast.com/forum or email forum@uktisoutheast.com
Posted 2009-10-01 11:06:17
Help students speak your language
Business Language Champions is a national programme that supports and recognises business engagement with schools through languages.
BLC is supported by the Department for Children Schools and Families, which aims to highlight the growing concern for the availability and level of language skills in the UK and to inspire companies to actively engage in partnerships with Schools to focus on language learning.
Raz Hussain has recently been appointed as the South East Regional Manager for the BLC programme. Based at Solent EBP in Southampton, she will be working with Multilingual Businesses and Secondary Schools from the South East region to develop language-learning projects.
Raz is keen to hear from Employers, Employees and Schools who wish to find out more about BLC or would like to sign up to the programme.
She says "It's time to make young people aware of just how exciting careers in languages can be - whether a student wants to be an international footballer, an overseas fashion buyer, a European Design Engineer, or a Foreign Correspondent, we need your help to show them how and why".
Multilingual companies and bilingual employees are invited to join the programme. Commitment could be as much as a one-hour presentation to an ongoing partnership.
Businesses can support the BLC programme through their Corporate Social Responsibility, Staff Development and Volunteering programmes.
To sign up or find out more please contact Raz Hussain at Solent EBP on raz.hussain@solent-ebp.co.uk or 023 8072 5747. Alternatively go to http://www.cilt.org.uk/blc for more information
Posted 2009-10-01 10:35:55
Gosport Business Awards – only 12 days left to enter
There are only 12 days left to enter the 2009 Gosport Business Awards. Local firms are being encouraged to “Celebrate their success!” and take advantage of this fantastic opportunity to showcase their achievements, gain the recognition of their peers and raise the profile of their business.
The Awards recognise Gosport businesses that can demonstrate their achievements and contribution to the local community. They also provide a unique opportunity to acknowledge and reward the entrepreneurial spirit and commitment to business excellence which exists in the Borough.
Award categories include Customer Service Excellence, National/International Trade, Most Promising New Business and Benefit to the Local Community; as well as a new category called "Independent Retailer of the Year". The presentation evening will also see one of the winners secure the coveted title of Gosport Business of the Year 2009.
Last year this was won by Marina Projects. Reflecting its portfolio of high profile European and International marina development and management contracts. the judges deemed the companys a leader in its field and a perfect example of the success that can be achieved by exporting local skills and knowledge across the globe. Mike Ward, the firm's Project Director, said "We are delighted to receive this Award, which recognises not only the achievements of the firm but the team behind them. Gosport is the ideal location for our business and we are proud to be associated with the Borough and its maritime heritage."
Winners of this year's Awards will be announced at a black tie Gala presentation ceremony to be held at The Alverbank Hotel on Thursday 26th November. Entry forms for the Awards are available online at http://www.gosportbusinessawards.co.uk. Hard copies can be obtained from Gosport Business Centre or the Town Hall. Completed entries must be received by 5.00 pm on Monday 12th October 2009. For further information please email info@go-gosport.co.uk or telephone 023 9254 5642.
Posted 2009-10-01 11:10:23
Kent Marine Skills Festival, 9th october 2009
The Education Business Partnership (EBP) has joined forces with Kent County Council to host the 2009 Kent Marine Skills Festival at the Dover Cruise Terminal.
Hot on the heels of the incredibly successful 2008 Kent Marine Skills Festival, which attracted over 1500 young people from 30 schools in Kent and was backed by 70 companies and organisations, this year's event also promises to provide an explosion of information on marine skills, training and career opportunities.
The 2009 festival promises to be bigger and better than last years with more interactive displays than ever before and exhibition space for late entries extremely limited.
This year there will also be an opportunity for adults who are not in employment, education or training to attend after 3.30 pm as a result of the festival's engagement with Job Centre Plus.
During the day the Festival will focus on engaging with students from Kent schools and colleges through practical, hands-on activity showcasing the vast array of skills and training available.
All who attend will be treated to tours of ships, practical engineering, navigational challenges, and a look at the vital role HM Coastguards play. This specialised event will address frequently asked questions such as, how are ships, including cruise ships, built? What skills are required? How can I train for that role? Are careers available in the Merchant Navy and ancillary industries?
The overarching aim of the 2009 Kent Maine Skills Festival is to help spark an interest in and a zest for the marine sector. Emphasis is also placed on encouraging students towards further education as well as ultimately creating a new generation of maritime specialists employed in the UK.
Anne McNulty, Executive Director EBP Kent, said;
"We are so grateful to the marine sector and the dedicated Dover Partnership working collaboratively to make a difference to the young people of this county.
"The maritime industry leads to such exciting diverse areas of employment for young people, it is very important they have the chance to fully understand the potential locally, regionally and in the global market."
Companies interested in participating should contact Jen Smith at the Education Business Partnership Kent on 01843 609649 or e-mail jen.smith@ebpkent.co.uk.
Posted 2009-05-01 09:54:56
University showcases maritime expertise
The University of Southampton recently celebrated the wealth and diversity of its maritime research at an evening reception hosted at the National Oceanography Centre, Southampton to coincide with the PSP Southampton Boat Show.
The event, which attracted over 160 delegates, brought together leaders from the marine industry, government scientists and administrators, experts from civic bodies and museums with University researchers to showcase innovative research and collaborative opportunities for the marine industry to solve social, economic and environmental challenges.
Professor Ajit Shenoi, Chair of the University's Maritime Studies Strategic Research Theme, commented: "Our strength and depth in maritime expertise, places us as the premier marine university in the UK. At this event we were able to showcase many of the diverse areas spanning ship science, oceanography, maritime archaeology and maritime law. Whilst we already have a high level of industrial engagement in this sector, the event has led to new partnerships which will no doubt take us into new areas of research."
If you would like to find out more about how the University's expertise and world-leading facilities could benefit the marine industry and explore options for collaboration log onto http://www.southampton.ac.uk
Posted 2009-10-01 10:43:31
Help youngsters into the workforce
Backing Young Britain is a Government-led initiative which is bringing businesses and public and voluntary sectors together to ensure that the valuable skills and experience of young people aren't being wasted.
The enthusiasm and potential of young people will be vital as we start to move out of recession so we need to give them the chance to flourish. Most are keen to work and just need that first break. And if they get it, they'll pour their ambition and motivation into your business.
Giving a young person their break can mean that you:
- Address skills gaps
- Access a range of Government support
- Provide your company with a workforce for the future
- Send a positive message about your company to the local community
How you can back young Britain
Although times are tough, we can all play a part. The Government is asking organisations to commit to one or more of the following:
1. Offer volunteer places or become a volunteer mentor for school or university leavers
2. Provide work experience opportunities
3. Offer internships to graduates, 18 year olds and non-graduates
4. Consider a young person for a job through a work trial
5. Supply apprenticeship opportunities for 16-24 year olds
6. Bid for one of the 100,000 jobs for young people from the Future Jobs Fund
7. Engage in a Local Employment Partnership
To find out more go to http://interactive.bis.gov.uk/backingyoungbritain/
Posted 2009-10-01 10:51:24
Turn innovation into high-growth business, 6 October 2009
Venue: City Cruise Terminal, Southampton
This new one-day conference and exhibition gives you:
- Keynote speakers
- Interactive workshops
- Speed learning zones
- Speed networking sessions
- One-to-one advice clinics
- Exhibitor stands
The interactive workshops provide free intensive learning in matters such as:
- Intellectual Property
- Marketing
- Finance
- Attracting an investor etc
Key note speakers include:
Carl Churchill, Commercial Director, murphx Innovative Solutions Ltd
At age 19, Carl ranked number one in the 2003 "Rich List 2020" - 20 people under 21 predicted to be worth millions in the next decade. Carl took top slot with a projected worth of £100 million, twice the number 2 position. Some were already famous, including stars like Kiera Knightley and Wayne Rooney. Carl's still only 25 with his business murphx growing by an impressive 400% in the past 18 months and 2009/10 on target for £20m turnover.
murphx has demonstrated impressive organic growth as well as completing no fewer than five acquisitions since 2004, with another expected to complete before the end of 2009. The business has recently been awarded "ISP of the Year" and Carl intends to build upon this accolade to increase the businesses market share.
Ian Gotts, Founder and CEO of Nimbus Partners
Ian has driven Nimbus' rapid growth over the last 10 years. The company has won numerous awards including Deloitte Fast50, Deloitte European Fast500, REALBusiness Hot 100 and Sunday Times TechTrack 100.
Ian's expertise is technology sales, business transformation, driving change, performance management, project management, outsourcing and process management.
Lloyd's Register & University of Southampton - Example of commercial collaboration
Lloyd's Register, one of the world's best known risk management organisations, has worked in collaboration with the University of Southampton for a number of years on many projects. To help improve communication and drive business growth, the organisation plans to move into the region, to the University's Boldrewood Campus as it is redeveloped as a Maritime Centre of Excellence.
This is a highly innovative move and speakers from both parties will explain in more detail the reasons behind it and what benefits and constraints there are. Delegates will be able to hear first hand experience of how this collaboration is expected to drive innovation and growth.
To find out more contact Katy Patterson on 01489 889882 or katy@solentsynergy.co.uk or go to http://www.collaborate2innovate2009.co.uk
Posted 2009-10-01 10:54:44
Marine RRC Courses for Autumn 2009
The Marine Regional Resource Centre has recently launched it Autumn programme of short courses. Full details of these can be obtained by visiting the events section of our site http://www.marinesoutheast.co.uk/events
All of these courses are fully funded if your company is a small or medium organisation (SME) within the south east region. There are certain criteria that the company need to meet to take advantage of this funding.
Courses include basic and high level training opportunities and so are suitable for experienced workers and those who are newer to the marine industry.
