chesterfield champions

Chesterfield Champions showcase success ahead of World Creativity and Innovation Day

17th April 2025

With World Creativity and Innovation Day taking place on Monday 21st April 2025, organisations across Chesterfield are showcasing how local talent, collaboration, and forward-thinking ideas are driving change in the town—and beyond.

From cutting-edge software development to hands-on education projects, Chesterfield businesses and educators are working together to unlock creative potential and inspire the next generation.

Find out more about how creative and innovative busninesses in our network of Chesterfield Champions are continuing to drive forward our local economy.

University of Derby and Rolls-Royce pioneer future-focused education

Pictures by Beth Walsh Photography- University of Derby assignment/ December 2021

In a major step forward for business education, the University of Derby has announced a new accelerated two-year degree in partnership with Rolls-Royce. The BSc (Hons) International Business and AI will launch in September 2025 and is the first of its kind in the UK—aimed at preparing students for careers in the rapidly evolving landscape of international business and artificial intelligence.

Dr Mustabsar Awais, Course Leader at the University of Derby, explained: “As artificial intelligence reshapes industries and disrupts traditional business models, there is a need for graduates with the skills and ambition to design the world of the future.

“This exciting, accelerated learning degree will equip students with the skills to apply advanced technological solutions to today’s business problems, drive forward innovation and gain valuable experience for their CVs. We are delighted to be working with world-leading brand Rolls-Royce to power the next generation and future workforce.”

Students will develop technical skills in areas like big data, business analytics and global economics, with real-world projects and immersive activities delivered in partnership with Rolls-Royce.

Dr Nicola Lynch, Head of Derby Business School, added: “We are delighted to be further strengthening our partnership with Rolls-Royce, working collaboratively to understand what our country and world needs to grow, and to develop the practical skills and future talent to help us meet those requirements.

“Industry engagement is critical to the University of Derby, providing solutions to social and industrial challenges by delivering academic expertise, innovation and knowledge.

“We believe in the transformational power of education and our mission is to develop a pipeline of student and graduate talent with the skills to improve business services and communities all around the world.

“We are delighted to be partnering on such a unique and exciting programme, which we hope will provide students with a range of practical business and thought leadership skills, making them well placed for a range of high-quality graduate roles.”

This new course complements the University’s existing relationship with Rolls-Royce, including their joint work on the Nuclear Skills Academy, and will be housed in the state-of-the-art Cavendish Building—set to open in 2025 in Derby city centre.

Creativity through the lens: Supporting the next generation of photographers

Mike Jones Photography was proud to support a recent photography project in partnership with Chesterfield College, aimed at capturing the commercial architectural landscape of Chesterfield through the creative lens of local students.

“This project was a fantastic opportunity to inspire and mentor the next generation of photographers,” said Mike Jones, Founder of Mike Jones Photography. “It combined our passion for architecture with a real desire to give students a platform to explore professional photography in a meaningful and practical way.”

The initiative invited students to document a wide range of commercial buildings—from offices and shops to public and hospitality spaces—encouraging them to consider lighting, composition, and storytelling through imagery. Mike Jones Photography provided guidance and feedback throughout the project.

“It was incredibly rewarding to see how engaged and enthusiastic the students were,” Mike continued. “Watching their skills grow, and their creative confidence develop, reminded us why partnerships like this matter.”

As a proud Chesterfield Champion, Mike Jones Photography is committed to building stronger links between education and local business.

“These collaborations are essential—not only for developing local talent but for supporting the future of our local economy. When students can connect with industry professionals, they gain the experience and insight they need to succeed, and that has long-term benefits for everyone in the community.”

Innovation in action: Weightron leads the way in cloud technology

Local manufacturer, Weightron Bilanciai has unveiled its game-changing cloud software suite CENTRIXS, following a three-year R&D journey led by developers Connor and Callum.

The platform offers real-time data control and site automation for weighing solutions across global markets, marking a bold leap from traditional on-premises systems.

Connor and Callum led by Weightron’s Project and Innovations Director Darren Jones spent countless hours brainstorming and conceptualising their ideas.

Weightron unveiled their IWM (Itemised Waste Management) version to the world several months ago, working alongside a few chosen clients to Beta test the application and refining it where necessary whist garnering attention and praise from early adopters. Their innovative solution is quickly gaining traction, attracting businesses seeking reliable, secure, and efficient cloud software to control weighing applications and site automation.

As their user base grows, Weightron continues to improve and expand their software, with version two already under discussion. They are listening to user feedback, planning to introduce further new features and enhancements to meet the markets evolving needs.

Photography as a creative outlet: SA Photography launches school workshops

Award-winning travel photographer Scott Antcliffe of SA Photography has launched an exciting initiative bringing photography workshops to schools across the region.

Combining his background as a Specialist Special Needs Teacher with an acclaimed photography career, Scott’s workshops are designed to boost confidence, creativity, and self-expression in young people.

“Too often, creative children don’t have the right outlet to express themselves,” says Scott. “I want to create opportunities for young people to discover photography as a powerful form of self-expression and a potential career path. I found my dream job in my early-thirties-I want to show students that a creative future is possible with the right support and inspiration.”

Scott’s credentials in the photography world are remarkable. Recently named Wanderlust Magazine’s Travel Photographer of the Year, his work has been featured in The Times, The Telegraph, The Metro, New York Times, CNN Travel, and numerous other publications. He regularly contributes articles to the Nikon website and national photography magazines, and delivers talks and workshops at events, conventions, and camera clubs throughout the UK.

His photography career has taken him around the world, working with international tourism boards and capturing performances by global artists including Ed Sheeran, Calum Scott, Bryan Adams, Tom Grennan, Michael Bublé, and Paloma Faith.

“I’ve tested the water with workshops in Sheffield and Chesterfield to both primary and secondary schools. Feedback from both staff and children have been incredibly positive. I look forward to working with more schools in the coming months,” Scott added.

Through this new initiative, Scott hopes to inspire the next generation of creatives by sharing both his technical expertise and his journey from the classroom to the world stage. The workshops are tailored to different age groups and abilities, with a focus on accessibility, confidence-building, and nurturing a lifelong love of creativity.

Driving innovation on the road: iTrack reaches new milestones

Based at The Glass Yard on Whittington Moor, iTrack Ltd. has rapidly become a standout success in the field of vehicle and asset tracking, recently surpassing 5,000 users on its iTrack Live software.

Managing Director Will Sissons explained: “Surpassing 5,000 users is a testament to the trust individuals and businesses have placed in us.” It’s an exciting time here at iTrack and I couldn’t be prouder of the incredible progress we’ve made over the last few years since moving into the Glass Yard on Whittington Moor in 2022.

“Surpassing 5,000 users on our iTrack Live tracking software is a testament to the trust individuals and businesses have placed in us to keep their fleets and assets safe and monitored in real-time. We’ve also processed over 25,000 orders and earned an ‘Excellent’ Trust Pilot rating, which speaks volumes about the hard work, customer service and dedication of our team.

The business has also developed a strong partnership with national retailer, Halfords, further solidifying the reputation gained by iTrack in the fleet telematics industry.

Will continued: “It’s a privilege to supply the UK’s largest motoring accessory retailer with our range of vehicle and asset tracking products which allows us to bring our innovative products to even more customers.

“It’s also fantastic to work with many local business’ too, such as Lockwood Haulage in Belper where we’ve fitted over 200 tracking devices to their HGV trailer fleet. They’ve seen significant savings compared to their previous provider while benefiting from the high-quality service we offer!

Looking ahead, the business is about to launch a state-of-the-art dash cam, featuring both front & rear cameras and a large touch screen for an intuitive user-friendly experience. This new product will provide individuals and companies with peace of mind, ensuring protection in the unfortunate event of non-fault road accidents.

Will concluded: “Exciting times are ahead, and we’re just getting started!”

The organisations featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

KranLee Logistics wins International Entrepreneur of the Year award

15th April 2025

Chesterfield’s KranLee Logistics has taken home another prestigious business award, with co-owner Karen Mosley being named International Entrepreneur of the Year (Sponsored by Solicitors4Landlords).

Karen was presented with the accolade at the 2025 East Midlands Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards, celebrating the region’s dynamic business leaders.

Now in its fourth year, the event recognised outstanding entrepreneurial talent from Leicester, Derby, and Nottingham.

With 27 exceptional finalists, the event showcased the diverse and innovative spirit of East Midlands businesses. The awards ceremony was set against the elegant backdrop of an afternoon tea occasion, providing a sophisticated yet relaxed atmosphere for all attendees.

Speaking on her award win, Karen commented: “Winning the International Entrepreneur of the Year award is more than a milestone, it’s a motivator. It tells us we’re on the right track at Kranlee Logistics, pushing boundaries and building something that resonates beyond borders. It’s recognition of the risks we’ve taken, the innovations we’ve introduced, and the relationships we’ve nurtured both domestically and internationally.

“The Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards shine a spotlight where it matters, on the real people such as Lee and I building real businesses that power our local and international economies. They remind us that entrepreneurship isn’t just about growth; it’s about impact. And we’re proud to be part of a network of businesses doing just that.”

Guests at the event also raised £1,000 during the event for The Real Entrepreneurs’ Awards charity partner The Zinthiya Trust. The money will be used to provide school uniforms to 50 local children from disadvantaged backgrounds.

Jenny Cross, Founder of The Real Entrepreneurs’ Club and its awards, said: “Entrepreneurial success is not solely defined by profitability but by the capacity to drive transformative change. These awards serve as a platform for recognising individuals and organisations that exemplify innovation, perseverance, and community engagement. It is an honour to organise an event that shines a spotlight on their achievements and fosters meaningful connections among business leaders.”

KranLee Logistics provides highly tailored and bespoke logistics experience for its clients.

Founded by siblings, Karen Mosley and Lee Wells, KranLee aims to create a one-to-one customer service-focused freight forwarding approach that benefits exporters and importers alike.

KranLee Logistics supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Kranlee Logistics, Love Chesterfield

Chesterfield Champions announce further successes

9th April 2025

A trio of Chesterfield Champion organisations have announced successes, with award wins and new hires revealed.

Our latest roundup features news from Banner Jones Solicitors, BHP Accountants and Crush Design. Find out the latest below:

Chesterfield design agency wins international award for rebrand

Local design agency Crush won Bronze at the continental Transform Awards Europe 2025, in recognition of their rebrand for German engineering firm, Ziemann Holvrieka.

These awards see hundreds of leading design and branding agencies, from across the entirety of Europe, enter with their latest projects in rebranding and brand development.

Natalie Burkinshaw, Founder and Creative Director, Crush commented: “Crush hasn’t entered any awards over the years, but this year we felt that it was about time we showed off our work to the world – giving us a chance to compete against some of the biggest and most acclaimed design agencies out there.

“To have even been shortlisted, let alone win Bronze, has meant the world to us as a small, independent Chesterfield-based agency.”

Working with Ziemann Holvrieka, a global leader in the beverage processing industry, the Crush team created a comprehensive, modern corporate rebrand, aimed at positioning the engineering company as forward-thinking and innovative within its ever-changing sector.

Judges at Transform Awards commented: “Beverage brand Ziemann Holvrieka’s outdated brand was not allowing it to reach its audiences effectively. It worked with Crush to create an identity inspired by the shape of the tanks and vessels produced by the company.

“The new look is sleek, professional and confident, allowing Ziemann Holvrieka to communicate its industry expertise and ambitious future aspirations.”

BHP appoints first Head of Employment Taxes in bold service expansion

BHP, one of the North’s leading accountancy firms, has appointed Kyle Newton as its first-ever Head of Employment Taxes as part of a strategic expansion of its services, reinforcing its commitment to providing specialist expertise to its clients.

With 17-years experience, working for firms including Deloitte, PWC and BDO, Kyle has supported employers across both the private and public sectors with managing the increasing cost and challenges with rewarding people via payroll, expenses or non-cash benefits. This work supports businesses with both the recruitment and retention of staff. He has also supported businesses with increasing benefit offerings, reshaping them in a tax efficient manner; or designing and implementing policy and control frameworks to aid compliance.

In his new role, Kyle will work closely with BHP’s wider tax team to provide comprehensive support across all tax areas, delivering specialist advice aligned with the latest HMRC guidance for employee tax.

Commenting on his appointment, Kyle said: “I am excited to be joining BHP and supporting clients at a time when HMRC enforcements are increasing and with employer’s national insurance increasing in April to 15%. Both create further challenges with businesses managing the trade-off between cost impact, recruitment/retention of key talent and productivity.

“I’m passionate about delivering tailored advice and practical solutions based on the latest HMRC guidance, tax legislation and case law, helping businesses to navigate challenges and continue to thrive. My aim is to reduce business cost and/or reduce administrative time”

Hamish Morrison, Joint CEO at BHP, added: “At BHP, we are committed to providing our clients with the highest level of expertise, and providing clear advice, which is especially important with significant changes on the horizon such as those around national insurance. Expanding our tax services with Kyle’s appointment strengthens our ability to support businesses, and his wealth of experience will be invaluable to our clients as they look to not only navigate the changing landscape but grow and thrive.”

Banner Jones Celebrates Double Win at Sheffield & District Law Society Awards

Leading regional law firm Banner Jones has once again been honoured at the Sheffield & District Law Society Awards, securing Employment Law Team of the Year for the fourth consecutive year. The firm also celebrated Lauren Mahon’s Rising Star Award, recognising her exceptional work in family law.

The Employment Law team, led by Katie Ash and Sara Patel, was praised for its expertise in supporting both individuals and businesses. Their work spans settlement agreements, contract drafting, training, complex dismissals, discrimination claims, disciplinaries and grievances, consultancy agreements, restrictive covenant enforcement, and business transfers and disposals.

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law, commented: “Winning this award for the fourth year in a row is an incredible honour. It is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, who are committed to delivering the highest standard of legal support for our clients.”

Lauren Mahon’s Rising Star Award reflects her expertise in family law, including divorce, children matters, civil partnership dissolution, and pre/post-nuptial agreements. She has successfully led several complex cases involving children and financial settlements, earning praise for her commitment to clients and legal excellence.

Alongside these wins, Banner Jones was shortlisted for both the Residential Property Team of the Year and Commercial Property Team of the Year awards, further demonstrating its breadth of expertise.

The awards were announced at the annual Sheffield & District Law Society ceremony on 28th February at the historic Crowne Plaza Royal Victoria Hotel, Sheffield.

Banner Jones’ Chief Executive, Simon Wright, commented: “The Sheffield & District Law Society Awards are a fantastic platform to recognise the talent and dedication within the region’s legal sector. Winning two awards this year, alongside being shortlisted in two further categories, is an incredible achievement for our teams.

“These accolades are a testament to the expertise and commitment of our people across multiple disciplines. From our award-winning employment law specialists to our exceptional property teams and rising stars, we are proud to see their hard work acknowledged at such a prestigious event.”

Crush, BHP and Banner Jones support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 230 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, UncategorisedTagged in Banner Jones, bhp, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Crush Design, Love Chesterfield

“We want to work with people we know and trust” – Chesterfield’s firms celebrate town’s vibrant business community

8th April 2025

Chesterfield’s community of businesses have highlighted the strength and togetherness of companies in the local area, citing an environment where firms thrive on collaboration rather than competition.

The recent Celebrate Local round table discussion, hosted by Destination Chesterfield at BHP Chartered Accountants’ new One Waterside Place office, highlighted the depth of this community spirit. Local business leaders in the town’s community of Chesterfield Champions shared their thoughts on why Chesterfield stands out as a place of collaboration and opportunity.

Delegates agreed that one of Chesterfield’s greatest strengths is how businesses work together to create opportunities and keep wealth within the town.

Anna Melton, Director of In the Works PR, emphasised the importance of local businesses supporting each other: “It’s beneficial that businesses in the town work together. If nothing else, it is sharing the wealth and keeping it local.

“Plus, if you’re using another business in the town, you can meet up in person. I think that’s important—to be able to sit across the table or have a coffee with them. If you’re working with someone on a project, being able to nip over and see the people you’re working with does make a real difference.”

This sense of connectivity is a defining feature of the business culture in Chesterfield. Andrew McDaid, Partner at Mitchells Accountants, echoed this sentiment, highlighting the difference between Chesterfield and larger cities:

“I think we do it very well. People might say it’s a bit colloquial, but I think we want to work with people we know and trust. For example, as an accountancy firm, we will always use a Chesterfield solicitor first wherever we can.

“We also do business in places like Sheffield, Leeds, and Nottingham, but I genuinely believe Chesterfield is a much more friendly, supportive, and collaborative environment. It’s not just about ‘what’s in it for me.’ I think we take that for granted, but when you spend time in bigger cities, you realise that isn’t the norm.”

At the heart of Chesterfield’s community is its historic marketplace, which continues to evolve while maintaining its strong local identity. In March, the first completed phase of the multi-million-pound regeneration project to revitalise the market square was completed.

Work in the upper half of the market has included the installation of new feature paving, relaying of the traditional cobbles to ensure better accessibility, the creation of modern market stalls, new street furniture and improvements to drainage, security and other infrastructure.

Nicola O’Sullivan, Director at BHP Accountants, spoke about the impact of giving the market a fresh new look: “The regeneration of the market will have a big impact on Chesterfield. That is Chesterfield’s heritage – we’re a market town, after all.

“The stalls look brighter now and really advertise the town, which brings it all together. It sends a message that this is a market town, and all the traders are together, rather than each trader just having its own little spot. I think it is clearly making the marketplace more attractive for traders and visitors. Having events on in our town makes a big difference, too. We do a lot of things that other places either can’t or don’t do, which is a real success story.”

Dan Molloy, Director at Choice Utility, highlighted a cultural shift that is reinforcing the importance of the regenerated marketplace: “I think we’re seeing a cultural change happening. If you look at Gen Z, they’re buying their produce more thoughtfully. They want to know it is fresh, they are looking at things more sustainably.

“We have a more educated and information-led customer base these days, especially compared to 20 or 30 years ago. So, there is a real opportunity with our market to put that into practice and take advantage.”

The second phase of the Revitalising the Heart of Chesterfield project is now underway in the lower half of the market square. It includes similar work to create a more open market that can support a wider range of markets and events.

For Chesterfield to continue thriving, investing in young people is also crucial, with businesses working with public sector organisations, training providers and institutions such as Chesterfield College, local secondary schools and nearby universities to identify talent.

Anna Melton pointed out the role businesses must play in encouraging ambitious young professionals to stay in the area: “We have some great young people in this town, and we have some great schools too. They’re producing students at 16 or 18 years old, who need jobs and training to build a career. They want those pathways to successful careers, so I would say to any company looking to invest here, you’ve got a strong and willing workforce.”

Chesterfield Champions are continuing to support initiatives which create an environment where young professionals feel supported to grow and develop. By having opportunities for local people to gain the skills needed to build rewarding careers, companies have a pool of talent to ensure they grow and operate successfully.

More than 3,000 young people have participated in site visits to local businesses in Chesterfield over the last 10 years through the Made in Chesterfield initiative, giving school pupils hands-on experiences of the workplace.

Elsewhere, Chesterfield College is actively supporting apprenticeships, with the development of a new advanced manufacturing and life sciences facility now underway. The Construction Skills Hub at Mastin Moor is also helping young people gain real-world experience and knowledge in construction trades.

Dan Molloy shared his positive experience of working alongside the college in recruiting apprentices: “Chesterfield College is good at supporting their students and businesses by promoting apprenticeships. They’ve held my hand through the process, and we’re looking to take on apprentices this year.

“I like how business is done in Chesterfield. It’s been a positive experience with almost everyone I’ve done business with.”

Jane Cooper, Partner at Graysons Solicitors summed up the discussion by highlighting how Chesterfield’s collaborative nature, industrial heritage, and supportive community make it a unique place to live and work:

“It comes back to that market town history – It’s the community feel that has been passed down, and we want to keep that going. We all want to see certain things grow and change in a progressive way.”

There are now over 230 Chesterfield Champions that are proud to support the local economy, working closely with Destination Chesterfield to showcase our town as a destination to live, work, visit and invest.

Find out more about Chesterfield Champions at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/destination-chesterfield/champions/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, UncategorisedTagged in business collaboration, chesterfield business news, chesterfield business support, chesterfield champions, Love Chesterfield

Champions collaborate to help firms achieve ESG targets

18th March 2025

A group of businesspeople in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions are joining forces to raise awareness of ESG (Environmental, Social, and Governance) for all companies.

Three local firms – Choice Utility, Green Arch Consulting and Kakou are highlighting the strategic advantages of integrating ESG principles into business plans and processes. They are hoping to spread awareness of the importance of ESG and the impact it could have on the future of small businesses in Chesterfield.

ESG looks at how a business can run more efficiently, more sustainably and be more socially responsible, which will not only help cut costs but allow for longevity, in terms of how the business will be able to prepare for the next 10 years.

This means better financial options going forward, be that from investors, banks and the rest of the customer base.

The three businesses are set to host an awareness event at Chesterfield’s Casa Hotel in April, to ensure firms are well informed about how ESG reporting could affect things in future.

Speakers include:

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Founding Director of Kakou Technolgies
Emma Knight-Strong, Director of Green-Arch Consulting
Dan Molloy, Director of Choice Utility
Natashia Lee, Managing Director of ESG PRO

Choice Utility’s Dan Molloy said: “Having a detailed report can help improve interest rates offered from financial institutions, improve the overall business value for exit strategies, improve relations with customers and staff to build a company with a sustainable future. With FTSE 100 companies and government institutions making the disclosures in the report integral to winning their business and ongoing tender offers.

“Major UK cities are already building this into their business. Chesterfield businesses will no doubt have already had current clients or potential clients that are asking for more information from their supply chain.

“This is due to changes in government regulations and the need for disclosures up and down the chain. New tendering platforms from the government and the NHS require scope 3 carbon reporting which is the collection of information from the supply chain, this means that contracts and opportunities further down the chain can find themselves in jeopardy by not having this information.

“ESG reporting will inevitably become increasingly more integral to these regulations so it’s imperative businesses are equipped with the information in order to not lose out on millions in potential revenue.

“Ultimately businesses across Chesterfield and Derbyshire are already doing incredible work, likely already doing a lot that once reported correctly can become a fantastic foundation for their ESG principles.”

Ann Fomukong-Boden, Founding Director of Kakou Technologies, added: “A sustainability-focused culture starts with leadership commitment, employee engagement, and clear goals. A step-by-step approach ensures lasting change without overwhelming resources, making sustainability a shared responsibility and an integral part of business operations for long-term success.”

Emma Knight-Strong, Director of Green Arch Consulting said: “ESG is no longer optional—it’s a business imperative. Fostering a deeper understanding of business operations enables decision-makers to identify future risks and opportunities with greater clarity, while transparency fosters trust and drives long-term value. Sustainable business is smart business.”

Find out more about the event and book your place: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/events/the-esg-advantage/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Property and ConstructionTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Choice Utility, ESG, Green Arch Consulting, Kakou, Love Chesterfield

Champions share latest growth and success after positive start to 2025

17th March 2025

Businesses in the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have announced further growth and successes.

Firms across our town have announced new hires, successful events, and even launched a new podcast. Find out about the latest growth and success stories from across our town in the roundup below.

SMH Group Appoint Steve Fern as Chief Financial Officer

SMH Group, a leading professional services firm with offices across Yorkshire and Derbyshire, is delighted to announce the appointment of Steve Fern as Chief Financial Officer (CFO), effective January 2025. Steve brings a wealth of experience in financial leadership, strategic growth, and business transformation, gained over a 25-year career across the UK, USA, and Australia.

Steve gained his ACA qualification early on in his career and has gone on to hold several senior roles across a diverse range of industries, including business turnaround, insurance and professional services. His fantastic track record includes his most recent success story where he held the role of Managing Director, taking the business on an incredible expansion journey which ultimately concluded with a sale to a national business.

Steve fostered a workplace culture where all staff felt valued and part of the company’s growth, aligning with the business’s core values. Earlier in his career, Steve supported hundreds of businesses during the financial crisis and implemented an industry-leading Enterprise Risk Management process while working in the US insurance sector.

Steve said: “I’m thrilled to join SMH Group at such an exciting time in its journey. The firm has a strong reputation for its client-first ethos and a dynamic approach to growth, with ten acquisitions since 2018. I’m looking forward to contributing to its continued success and helping build on the robust financial foundations already in place.”

In addition to his professional accomplishments, Steve’s people-focused approach and commitment to fostering positive company cultures have been instrumental in his career. Beyond work, he dedicates time to family, youth sports coaching, and charitable fundraising, including cycling the length of Britain.

Jonathon Dickens, CEO at SMH Group, said: “Steve’s wealth of expertise and his impressive track record in driving growth make him the perfect addition to our leadership team. His values align seamlessly with ours, and his appointment reinforces our commitment to delivering the best possible outcomes for our clients and staff alike.”

Chesterfield Chat launches podcast following success on Spire Radio

Chesterfield Chat, the weekly radio show that debuted on Spire Radio in May 2024, is excited to announce the launch of its podcast. Due to listener demand and the show’s continued success, episodes will now be available on all major podcast platforms, allowing listeners to catch up on their favourite interviews and local stories anytime, anywhere.

Chesterfield Chat has quickly become a go-to source for news and information about the Chesterfield community. Hosted by Jordan Hartshorne, the show features engaging interviews with local businesses, charities, community groups, and artists, covering everything from upcoming events and initiatives to inspiring personal stories and local achievements.

“We’ve been thrilled with the response to Chesterfield Chat on Spire Radio since launching last year,” says Jordan Hartshorne, Chesterfield Chat host and Managing Director of Spire Radio. “The community has really embraced the show, and we’ve received so many requests for a way to listen back to episodes. Launching a podcast was the natural next step, and we’re delighted to make Chesterfield Chat even more accessible.”

Listeners can now subscribe to the Chesterfield Chat podcast on Apple Podcasts, Spotify, Amazon Music, and other popular podcast apps. New episodes will be released weekly following the live broadcast on Spire Radio.

Pinelog welcomes Darrell Fisher as new Production Manager

Chesterfield-based Pinelog, a leading UK manufacturer of luxury timber lodges, has appointed Darrell Fisher as Production Manager.

Darrell brings 34 years of experience in the holiday homes, lodges, and motorhome sectors to his new role, having previously worked with the Swift Group Ltd, one of the UK’s largest leisure vehicle manufacturers. Beginning his career as an apprentice cabinet maker, Darrell has gained experience across the industry, from hands-on craftsmanship to strategic leadership, culminating in his role as Senior Production Manager at Swift.

“The stars aligned at just the right time,” Darrell explained. “I’d been thinking about a change for a while, and when I saw the role and spoke with Craig Morrison, Pinelog’s Operations Director, I knew it was the perfect fit. The scope of the role and the company’s vision for growth made it an easy decision.”

With extensive expertise in manufacturing, production management, and process improvement, Darrell is excited to bring his knowledge to Pinelog. His scope of work includes overseeing the transition from design to production, driving continuous improvement across manufacturing processes at the company’s Chesterfield site, managing delivery and installation, and ensuring exceptional customer satisfaction.

Impressed by Pinelog’s approach to craftsmanship and quality, Darrell said: “From day one, I’ve been impressed with the attention to detail and the traditional, hands-on building methods used for each lodge. The Pinelog production team are incredibly highly skilled and handcraft every aspect of the lodge from start to finish – unlike larger companies where teams often focus on smaller, segmented tasks. What they create is a credit to the exceptional skill and dedication of the team.”

In his new role Darrell will bring his skills to assisting with Pinelog’s journey to modernise and fine-tune its production processes while maintaining the brand’s legacy of quality. “I’m looking to introduce more contemporary techniques, strengthening the production team, and ensuring that Pinelog continues to exceed customer expectations as it grows,” explained Darrell.

Nick Grayson, Group Chairman, commented on Darrell’s appointment: “We’re delighted to welcome Darrell to the team. His wealth of experience and process-driven mindset are exactly what we need to take our manufacturing capabilities to the next level. With Darrell onboard, we’re confident that Pinelog will continue to set the standard for luxury timber lodge production in the UK.”

Workpays hosts The Big Assembly to highlight apprenticeships

The Big Assembly 2025, founded and organised by Workpays, has once again proved to be the UK’s largest live-streamed apprenticeship event, with a record-breaking 197,000+ students, teachers, and employers signing up.

The event brought together leading employers, inspiring apprentices, and industry experts to provide valuable insights into apprenticeships and career pathways.

This year’s event featured a diverse panel of apprentices and industry leaders, who shared their career journeys, experiences, and advice to help young people explore their next steps:

Ali Amin – Former Level 6 Electro-Mechanical Engineer Degree Apprentice at Shawpak, East Midlands Apprenticeship Ambassador
Chloe Fearnley – Level 2 SMART Repair Technician Apprentice at Arnold Clark
Danny McBean – Former Level 3 Electrical Installation Apprentice at Grants Dufftown Ltd, WorldSkills UK Champion
Centime Beach-Frank – Level 3 Maintenance & Operations Engineering Technician Apprentice at Drax
Jonathan Foot – Director of Skills & Early Careers at Compass Group UK & Ireland

These panellists provided first-hand insights into apprenticeships, discussing how they developed skills, gained qualifications, and progressed in their careers.

The Big Assembly 2025 was made possible through the support of leading employers, including Compass Group UK & Ireland, Boots, Arnold Clark, Drax, Tarmac, IAE, and WorldSkills UK. These organisations played a key role in delivering an engaging and impactful event, demonstrating the breadth of apprenticeship opportunities available.

The event also received recognition from Jacqui Smith, Minister for Skills, who highlighted the importance of apprenticeships in shaping the future workforce and praised the Big Assembly’s role in inspiring young people to consider apprenticeship routes.

For those who missed the live event, the full Big Assembly 2025 broadcast is now available to watch on demand.

Bridge Help welcomes Lisa Griffiths as new Business Development Manager

Chesterfield-based commercial bridging finance provider Bridge Help has swelled its ranks with the appointment of Lisa Griffiths, who has joined as a Business Development Manager.

Her appointment means Bridge Help continues to boast an all-female business development team, led by Katie Snodden, bucking the trend in the male-dominated financial services industry.

Lisa, who hails from Chesterfield, brings a wealth of experience her new role, including a 20-year career in law before transitioning into ground-up property development before moving into commercial finance brokering.

Her extensive knowledge of the property sector, from both legal and financial perspectives, gives her a unique understanding of the challenges brokers and borrowers face.

Speaking about her new role, Lisa commented: “I’ve always enjoyed working closely with clients and brokers to find solutions that make deals happen.

“Bridge Help is known for its flexible, common-sense approach to lending, and I’m excited to be part of a team that truly puts brokers and borrowers first. With my background in property and finance, I’m excited to work closely with brokers to help them find the right solutions for their clients and get deals done quickly.”

Lisa’s appointment comes at an exciting time for Bridge Help, as the company celebrates its fifth year and continues to expand and enhance its offering to brokers and borrowers.

Chris Sellars, CEO and General Counsel at Bridge Help, welcomed Lisa to the team, saying; “2025 is shaping up to be an exciting year for Bridge Help as we continue to grow and strengthen our offering. Lisa’s extensive experience, both in law and commercial finance, makes her a fantastic addition to our team. Her ability to understand complex deals from multiple angles will be a huge asset to our brokers. I’m delighted to welcome her aboard.”

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Home, UncategorisedTagged in Bridge Help, BSP Consulting, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Pinelog, SMH Group, Spire Radio, Workpays

National Careers Week: Chesterfield businesses invest in future talent and career development

5th March 2025

Business leaders across Chesterfield are taking significant steps to nurture talent, provide career progression opportunities, and secure the long-term future of their industries.

With National Careers Week 2025 putting a spotlight on skills development, companies in the town are showcasing their commitment to creating a highly skilled workforce through structured training, mentorship programs, and professional development initiatives.

A recent roundtable discussion with key figures from Chesterfield’s business community highlighted the ways in which employers are investing in workforce development, ensuring that individuals of all ages have access to the skills and opportunities they need to succeed.

Companies across Chesterfield understand that investing in people is crucial to business success. By providing structured training pathways, mentorship opportunities, and leadership development programs, employers are ensuring their workforce is prepared for the future.

Chesterfield Borough Council has introduced internal career progression schemes that enable employees to upskill and take on new responsibilities. “We have seen first-hand the benefits of investing in our workforce,” said Max Denton, Skills Delivery Assistant. “By offering training and development opportunities, we ensure our team members have the chance to grow within the organisation.”

Similarly, DBCP has embraced structured development opportunities. Charlotte Gladwin is an apprentice at the organisation, and believes the support provided is giving her an abundance of knowledge and experience:

“We provide hands-on experience to those in training, pairing them with senior professionals who act as mentors,” explained a company representative. “This ensures they gain real-world knowledge that prepares them for long-term success.”

While many businesses are focused on upskilling their existing workforce, apprenticeships remain a key route for career development, helping people gain hands-on experience while earning a qualification. Employers in Chesterfield are increasingly using apprenticeships as a tool to bring in fresh talent and develop future leaders.

Vines Legal, a Chesterfield-based law firm, has introduced a Level 7 solicitor apprenticeship. Managing Director, Catherine Wenborn sees talent development as a key investment in the firm’s future: “Our apprentice joined us straight from school and will qualify as a solicitor in six years. It’s a great way to develop talent organically and invest in the next generation.”

Engineering firms are also seeing the benefits. Matt Close, UK Business Lead at NeoDyne UK added: “We used to rely primarily on hiring graduates, but now we are combining that with apprenticeship programs to ensure we have a workforce trained in exactly the skills we need.”

Other industries, including manufacturing and construction, have also embraced apprenticeships as a means of future-proofing their businesses. “We take on multiple apprentices each year, and they bring fresh perspectives and enthusiasm,” said William Thomas, Workshop Manager at MSE Hiller. “They learn from experienced staff while contributing their own ideas, which benefits the whole company.”

In an increasingly competitive job market, Chesterfield businesses recognise the importance of talent retention. By offering clear career pathways, companies are improving job satisfaction and reducing turnover.

Nick Catt, Managing Director of Weightron Bilanciai, shared how his company has benefited from investing in long-term workforce development. “One of our team members started straight from school and is now working on international projects. Creating clear career progression pathways helps us keep top talent within our company.”

Katie Ash, Head of Employment Law at Banner Jones Solicitors emphasised how working flexibly with apprentices and trainees can boost the whole business: “Young professionals today are looking for more than just career progression—they want a balance between work and life. We recognise that offering flexibility is key to keeping employees engaged and motivated. If someone is putting in the extra hours, they should be rewarded with time to recharge. Flexible working isn’t just a perk anymore; it’s an essential part of modern career development and a crucial factor in attracting and retaining talent.”

Beyond individual businesses, Chesterfield’s career development efforts are supported by schools, local authorities careers hubs, and training providers that connect young people with employment opportunities. The East Midlands Combined County Authority Careers Hub, which links 175 secondary schools and colleges across Derbyshire and Nottinghamshire with local businesses, plays an essential role in bridging the gap between education and the workforce.

Local initiatives such as the ‘Apprentice Town’ widget, which advertises job and training opportunities on school websites, also make it easier for students to explore career paths and connect with potential employers.

Chesterfield businesses are not just focused on entry-level talent but are also investing in leadership development. Companies are implementing mentorship programs to cultivate the next generation of leaders.

The manufacturing Futures Scheme, funded by Chesterfield Borough Council through the UK Shared Prosperity Fund, recently lead to the creation of new classroom facilities at local business, United Cast Bar.

Staff from Chesterfield College provided mentoring to dozens of people already employed in the sector, to inform and empower our companies on attracting and nurturing local talent.

MSE Hiller’s William Thomas explained how some of the senior team members at the company are already passing on experience to ensure it can thrive for years to come.

“We’ve seen firsthand how giving senior staff the opportunity to mentor younger employees reinvigorates their passion for the job. It gives them a renewed sense of purpose, especially as they approach retirement.

“One of our most experienced team members, who’s been with us for 20 years, has spent his final months sharing his expertise, and it’s been invaluable. This kind of knowledge transfer is essential for ensuring that businesses continue to thrive, as it equips the next generation with the skills and confidence they need to succeed.”

To find out more about the support and initiatives on offer for Chesterfield businesses to upskill their teams and secure their future workforce, go to: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

The businesses featured in this article support the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Destination Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing, SkillsTagged in Careers in Chesterfield, chesterfield apprenticeships, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Destination Chesterfield, Love Chesterfield, National Careers Week

Chesterfield business leaders champion the benefits of nurturing our town’s young talent

12th February 2025

Business leaders in Chesterfield are championing the role apprenticeships play in strengthening their industries, creating a culture of innovation and developing the workforce of the future.

A recent round table discussion, held with key figures from Chesterfield’s business community, highlighted how taking on apprentices can provide fresh perspectives, close skills gaps, and offer a sustainable way to train and retain talent.

From law firms and engineering companies to software developers and local authorities, businesses are embracing apprenticeships not just as a way to bring in young talent but also as a tool for developing their existing teams and securing the long-term future of their organisations.

For companies working in highly technical fields, apprentices bring a fresh skill set and a deep understanding of modern technology.

Nick Catt, Managing Director of Weightron Bilanciai, emphasised how younger employees have a natural ability to work with technology, making them a valuable asset to the business.

“Looking at it from the point of view of our Software Engineers, they’re able to do certain things which would take me much longer to do. Young people are able to sit and text with one hand whilst talking to you about something else. They’ve got a natural ability to understand technology like never before. We are investing a lot into cloud technologies, and the young people in my business are keen on being pushed with the new tools available to them.”

With businesses facing increasing challenges in recruitment, many are turning to apprenticeships as a way to bring in new talent and provide them with the skills needed to succeed in their industries.

Katie Ash, Director and Head of Employment Law at Banner Jones Solicitors, explained:

“Recruitment is hard, so we’re finding we must train people up. Apprenticeships are definitely a route into our profession, but it’s vital that we work with them to help them upskill and progress, so they want to stay with the business at the end of their course.”

Similarly, William Thomas, Workshop Manager at MSE Hiller, stressed that apprenticeships are crucial for ensuring businesses can develop the skills needed for the future.

“For us, it is about future-proofing. What we do is quite niche, so there has to be an element of passing on skills. We found that by taking on apprentices and tailoring their teaching, you can bridge that gap in the business. They’re able to learn from and aspire to be amongst the experienced engineers, which then gives our apprentices that drive to progress.”

Business leaders emphasised that apprenticeships are not just about filling immediate vacancies; they are an investment in the long-term future of the organisation.

Catherine Wenborn, Managing Director of Vines Legal Ltd, shared how taking on an apprentice had positively impacted her company.

“You’re getting somebody that’s literally just come out of school, meaning they’ve got a lot of fresh enthusiasm. If you can teach them the right way, you’ve got somebody who’s really going to go forward in the business. From our experience, we’ve brought someone into the organization who is willing to learn, and that has impacted quite successfully on our business so far.”

Pieter Eksteen, Education and Business Partnership Manager at the East Midlands Chamber, also highlighted how apprenticeships play a role in staff retention and leadership development.

“At the Chamber, we use the opportunity of apprenticeships to develop our permanent staff. So, we provide mentorship opportunities, which help people understand the rest of the business as well as just the department or role they are currently in. This helps us to develop our existing employees to take on leadership and management skills in the future. So, we’re looking at apprenticeships not just for young people, but also looking at it from the point of view of our existing employees to help retain the talent that’s within the Chamber.”

One of the key benefits of apprenticeships is the way they foster mentorship and professional development within a company.

Matt Close, UK Business Lead for NeoDyne, shared how taking on apprentices had helped other team members develop their own skills.

“We took two graduates on 18 months ago, and we also took on two apprentices back in September. This automatically gives the graduates someone to mentor and coach. They realise they’re not the youngest people in the business, and they know things that they can pass on to others. They’re able to reflect and realise what they’ve learned, which in turn helps them with their development.”

Charlotte Gladwin, an Apprentice Building Control Surveyor at DBCP, provided a first-hand account of how apprenticeships enable knowledge transfer between generations.

“Building control tends to have quite a high age profile. My mentor had never taken on a younger person before. The whole company can’t believe how well he has taken me in, and the wealth of knowledge he has been able to share with me has been phenomenal. He’s a great example of how skills and knowledge can be passed down to future generations.”

A crucial takeaway from the discussion was that apprenticeships instil a culture of continuous learning, which benefits businesses and employees alike.

Liam Jackson, Strategic Careers Hub Lead at the East Midlands Combined County Authority (EMCCA), observed:

“One valuable insight from this conversation is that, because apprentices gain their education while simultaneously learning on the job, this not only builds practical skills but also fosters a lifelong mindset of learning, curiosity, and continuous skill development, even in later stages of their careers.”

Max Denton, Skills Delivery Assistant for Chesterfield Borough Council, reinforced this view by explaining how apprenticeships contribute to long-term business success.

“For me, it’s not just about progression for the young person, but it’s important for the employer as well. From my experience, you get out of it what you put in. If you put in a lot of effort with your apprentices and provide them with the skill set to grow, you could potentially reap your rewards in later years down the line. You’ll have a fully-fledged member of the team who knows the organisation inside out, and therefore a team member who can take on other roles in future years. It’s a great asset when looking at succession plans, and that’s how I believe businesses should value apprenticeships.”

Apprenticeships offer a cost-effective alternative to traditional hiring, thanks to government support through the Apprenticeship Levy and co-investment funding. For non-levy-paying employers, up to 95% of training costs are covered, making it an affordable way to bring in new talent and develop existing staff. This funding can also help offset financial pressures, such as increased National Insurance contributions. Meanwhile, employers who contribute to the Apprenticeship Levy can maximize their investment by using the funds for training, ensuring they make the most of the resources available without incurring additional costs.

Is your business looking for support to take on an apprentice or upskill your team? Find out more at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/business-support/skills/

If you, or someone you know is considering their next career options, more information about apprenticeships in Chesterfield can be found at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/apprenticeships/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Apprentice Town, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Manufacturing, Skills, UncategorisedTagged in apprentice town, chesterfield business news, Chesterfield business round table, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Skills, Love Chesterfield, National Apprenticeship Week, National Apprenticeship Week 2025

Whittam Cox Architects expands into Scotland

14th January 2025

Chesterfield’s Whittam Cox Architects is expanding, having announced the opening of its new office in Scotland.

Situated in Dundee, this expansion marks a milestone in the practice’s growth strategy and underscores its commitment to delivering architectural services in the region.

The new Scottish office will serve as a hub for the practice’s growing portfolio of projects in Scotland. The initial focus will be on Retail, enabling them to collaborate more closely with both national and local clients and stakeholders.

This strategic move aims to strengthen the company’s footprint in the region, with a particular focus on driving growth in the retail sector, as well as providing further potential to expand into a wider architectural offer to deliver projects in other sectors.

The practice has worked in Scotland for many years with some of the UK’s leading retailers. This office will look to further develop their ability to deliver a range of projects in the country.

“We are thrilled to officially launch our new office in Scotland,” said Andy Dabbs, Managing Executive Director: “We see Scotland as a diverse and dynamic market for us. By establishing a local presence, we aim to deepen our relationships with existing clients and enhance our proposition and reach for new client growth, both here and in Ireland”.

The Scottish office will focus initially on retail work. The firms long-standing expertise in retail architecture will be complemented by its aspiration to deliver wider architectural design and delivery services in the region.

The new office will be led through the new appointment of Regional Director Clive Gordon; a retail and technical expert with experience spanning many years. Clive is known to the practice through collaborating on previous projects together.

Commenting on his new appointment and the announcement of the new office, Clive said: “This is a great opportunity to build on the clear strengths of Whittam Cox Architects profile and reputation, and I’m delighted to be joining and them and shaping this new location. Through working closely with the senior management team and wider practice colleagues, we are confident we can create a strong service offering here with clear potential for growth.”

Whittam Cox Architects supports the marketing and economic growth of the town through Chesterfield Champions, a network of over 200 organisations across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Development, Home, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Whittam Cox Architects

Trio of Champions begin 2025 with exciting announcements

9th January 2025

Three Chesterfield organisations have started 2025 strongly, announcing staff promotions and boosted services.

Our latest roundup features a new service being launched by Chesterfield Royal Hospital’s Primary Care department, a new CEO announced for SMH Group, and an exciting new role for a Managing Partner at Shorts Accountants.

Find out more below:

Royal Primary Care enhances patient experience with new phone system

Arriving at a time of increased demand across the NHS and primary care, Chesterfield’s Royal Primary Care (RPC) is excited to announce a positive development for patients with the implementation of a new, state-of-the-art phone system, Surgery Connect, designed to enhance patient experience and streamline practice management.

Nathaniel Webber, Managing Director of Royal Primary Care, said: “We are committed to providing the best possible care for our patients. The introduction of Surgery Connect is a significant step forward in improving our communication capabilities. This system will ensure that our patients experience more efficient and effective service, reducing wait times and enhancing overall satisfaction.”

Key benefits for patients:

• Enhanced Queue Position and Call-Back Options: Patients will spend less time waiting on the phone with new queue and call-back features.
• Effective Signposting: Patients are directed to the right service quickly, reducing wait times.
• Seamless Integration with Clinical Systems: Calls are managed more swiftly, with patient details easily checked and updated.
• Dedicated Cancellation Option: Patients can easily cancel appointments, helping to reduce wasted slots and improve availability.

Initial feedback from other GP practices using Surgery Connect has been overwhelmingly positive. Practices have reported significant improvements in call handling efficiency and patient satisfaction.

According to recent data, 60% of UK GP practices using Surgery Connect have seen a marked improvement in their communication processes. Additionally, patient surveys indicate an 85% satisfaction rate with the new system, highlighting its effectiveness in enhancing the overall patient experience.

Royal Primary Care is a division of Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust. This close relationship allows for a more integrated approach to healthcare, combining primary care with hospital services to provide comprehensive care for our patients and ensures that we can respond effectively to the significant challenges in primary care and continue to deliver high-quality services.

Dr Hal Spencer, Chief Executive at Chesterfield Royal Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, highlighted the operational benefits: “Surgery Connect is not just about better phone lines; it’s about integrating our communication with our clinical systems to provide a seamless experience for both patients and staff. The new system will allow us to manage calls more swiftly, update patient details easily, and reduce the time taken to handle each call. This means our staff can focus more on patient care.”

Shorts’ Managing Partner Andy Irvine elected to Global Board of Praxity

With affect from 1st January 2025, Shorts’ Managing Partner Andy Irvine has been elected to the Global Governing Council and Board of Praxity – the world’s largest alliance of independent accounting and consulting firms.

Shorts have been members of Praxity since 2018, and in the six years since joining, have forged strong relationships with member firms and extended their reach to businesses worldwide. The alliance provides a modern responsive delivery model that gives member clients access to quality auditing, tax, accountancy and advice around the world, whilst UK clients remain confident in the knowledge that partner firms in other territories are there to support and guide as appropriate.

Having played an active role within the Alliance and chaired the UK conference for four years, Andy’s appointment to the Global Board, reflects his commitment to the future success of the Alliance.

Upon confirming his appointment, Andy Irvine said “I look forward to working with Steffen Aherns, Jason Drake and the rest of the Praxity board as we focus on developing the alliance for an exciting future, whilst continuing to serve our global clients with outstanding work.”

As active members of the alliance, Shorts maintain strong relationships with international colleagues. During 2024 alone, representatives from Shorts attended the North American Leadership conference, the Global Tax conference in Madrid, the Global conference in Singapore, and the North American Tax Conference in Orlando.

You can find out more about how being a member firm of Praxity helps Shorts’ clients by visiting shorts.uk.com/praxity/

SMH Group appoints Jonathon Dickens as CEO, James Hartley steps into Chairman role

Yorkshire and Derbyshire based accounting and business services firm, SMH Group as announced the appointment of Jonathon Dickens as CEO of the business, with James Hartley moving to the role of Chairman.

Having been at the firm for almost 20 years after joining as an apprentice in 2005, Jonathon has been instrumental alongside James in the firm’s strategic growth in recent years, completing multiple acquisitions since 2017 and expanding the group’s service offering to include commercial finance, mortgage brokering and wealth management.

With these changes, SMH is doubling down on its already successful growth strategy and its vision of becoming the leading accounting and business adviser in the region. Key to this is continuing to attract and retain the best talent, making it the partner of choice for clients in the region, and continuing its current growth trajectory through a combination of organic growth and future M&A activity.

Jonathon Dickens, CEO said: “Our people are what makes SMH such a fantastic place to work and an equally trusted advisor to our clients. I hope to carry on the great work James and I have done together by continuing our growth trajectory into 2025 and beyond.

“On a personal note, I’d also like to thank James for being an inspirational figure, a true mentor and friend during our time to date at SMH and beyond.”

James Hartley will be moving to a strategic advisory position in his new role as Chairman of SMH Limited.

James Hartley, Chairman added: “Over the last 22 years, SMH has become a business we can truly be proud of, with an incredible team and clients. I look forward to supporting the business in a strategic capacity in my new role as Chairman.”

Champions latest: Businesses celebrate successes across Chesterfield

19th December 2024

Chesterfield businesses are continuing to celebrate growth and success, closing out 2024 on a high.

Find out below about some of the latest hires, growth and success stories across our community of Chesterfield Champions.

A Christmas to celebrate at Robinson Paperbox

Robinson Paperbox Packaging is celebrating its most successful Christmas production run, just over a year after their entire facility was almost destroyed in the town’s mass flood.

Thanks to the fantastic efforts of their whole team, the factory is now completely restored. The SATE and Emmeci machines are back in full production with increased capacity for new and existing orders to take them into 2025.

Christmas clients include Wentworth Wooden Puzzles, Betty’s Bakery, Biscuiteers Baking Co, Neom Wellbeing and Holdsworth’s premium chocolate range. This year Wentworth have created a beautiful bespoke range of advent calendars for the festive season with challenging designs and innovative packaging solutions.

Robinson are also involved in several projects for Betty’s in both confectionery and bakery-based products, recently producing the newly launched chocolates and truffles range which includes the Cru Savage Truffles, Champagne Truffles and Salted Caramel Chocolates. They have also recently manufactured the Betty’s Chocolate Tasting Box with its brand-new look, their famous Florentines, Fruit Clusters and Chocolate Desires, and their Langues de Chat chocolates boxes which are a festive favourite.

Jon Walker, New Business Development Manager for Robinson commented: “Securing work with high-profile customers is great for our business and shows exactly why our FSC accreditation is so important”

“We really have had the best Christmas production ever, which is amazing considering the devastation of the flood this time last year. The team have pulled together to not only restore our factory and production in record time but to create a bigger and better business with increased capacity for new orders next year.”

Robinson Paperbox partners with some of the world’s most luxurious brands, from concept to commercialisation, creating widely recyclable packaging which is made from 100% post-consumer recycled material and produced fully in the UK.

Robinson were recently awarded FSC ® certification (Licence code: FSC-C186000) for its Paperbox division.

FSC certification ensures that all products produced at Paperbox are sustainable. FSC-managed forests help provide clean air and water by restricting hazardous chemicals and following strict harvesting and forestry practices. Their work also helps ensure a diversity of animals, trees and plants as well as providing safe working conditions for everyone involved.

Veezu celebrates one million app downloads in 2024

Veezu, the UK’s fastest-growing taxi and private hire vehicle (PHV) business,nannounces that it has reached a significant milestone surpassing over 1 million app downloads in 2024 alone.

This achievement reflects Veezu’s strong growth and expanding presence in the UK as well as its ongoing success in providing its highly accessible on-demand and prebooked transport solutions to passengers.

Veezu is licensed to operate in over 50 local license authorities in the UK and has likewise rolled out its mobile app in over 50 cities, towns and rural areas across Yorkshire, Merseyside, the Midlands, South Wales, the South West, the Home Counties and Cambridgeshire.

As Veezu’s popularity grows, the company is continuing to transform the way people travel by blending the deep local expertise of traditional taxi and PHV firms with the efficiency and scale of a national platform that equally serves urban and rural communities, setting it apart in the industry. This unique approach has resonated with UK passengers and the one million download benchmark reached since 1st January 2024 reflects this.

The Veezu app serves both business travel and leisure journeys and prioritises an experience designed around passenger choice, guaranteeing a smooth experience from start to finish. The app allows passengers to book and pay for rides using cash or card, offering flexibility that suits diverse preferences and makes booking a journey simple and straightforward.

For corporate clients, Veezu’s app offers seamless business travel management where employees can book rides directly, with charges billed to their company accounts, eliminating personal reimbursement processes. This efficient setup enables businesses to manage travel costs while giving employees a stress-free booking experience.

Founded in Wales in 2013, Veezu is a UK home-grown tech success story that remains deeply engaged with the communities it serves, integrating local partnerships as part of its mission. In December 2024, for every app booking in Wales, Veezu will donate to Childline Cymru, supporting essential services for children in need. Additionally, app bookings in Cambridge throughout 2024 will contribute to a donation to the East Anglia Air Ambulance, supporting critical services for those in urgent need. In October 2024, a nationwide campaign saw Veezu donating, for every booking made to Cerebral Palsy charities.

These initiatives highlight Veezu’s commitment to making a meaningful difference in the lives of individuals and families across the UK.

Nathan Bowles, CEO of Veezu, commented on the milestone, “We are incredibly proud to reach one million app downloads this year. This achievement reflects our ongoing commitment to innovation and making travel as convenient as possible for passengers. We’ve built a booking system that adapts to the needs of all our users by harnessing our strong tech platform, focus on user experience and our significant footprint.

“The growing reach of our app and our operations is buoyed not only by the continued positive reception to our app but by the appetite in the market for prebooked and on-demand PHV travel solutions across the breadth of the UK.”

Shorts ready for growth with appointment of new Tax Partner

Shorts are delighted to announce the appointment of Craig Walker as Tax Partner with effect from 1 December 2024, joining existing Tax Partners Chris Chambers, Scott Burkinshaw, and David Robinson in leading the firm’s tax offering. Responding to a decade of sustained growth, the appointment of Shorts’ fourth Tax Partner supports their continued commitment to growing the Tax department and underpins the firm’s continued development and strength.

An experienced Chartered Tax Adviser and member of the Society of Trust and Estate Practitioners, Craig has over 20 years of tax experience at large regional firms and a top 15 firm, and he rejoins Shorts twelve years after previously completing his early tax training at the firm.

An enthusiastic advocate for his hometown of Chesterfield, Craig will be based out of the firm’s offices at Ashgate Road and will advise clients on all areas of UK taxation with a particular focus on Private Client work. Going forward, his role will transition progressively towards taking a more active role in the leadership and strategy of the firm, in particular within the Private Client team as Chris Chambers moves towards retirement.

Craig said “I am thrilled and honoured to be joining the team at Shorts, during such an exciting time in the firm’s growth and history, and I am proud to take this next step on my professional journey. I am very much looking forward to working with the leadership team, and to help drive forward the continued success of such a highly respected firm and exceptional tax team.”

Chris Chambers, Senior Tax Partner at Shorts, said “Craig’s passion for Chesterfield and our wider region, experience and expertise makes him a great appointment for Shorts, and it is testament to the strength of the firm that we can attract an individual of Craig’s calibre. Craig will focus on Private Client advice as well as Business Tax matters as required, using his experience of having previously provided the full range of tax advice to a similar client base to ours. Craig will be a fantastic addition to our partner group whilst also forming an important part of our succession planning. I am confident that with Craig on board, the firm will continue to go from strength to strength.”

Scott Burkinshaw, Tax Partner added “I am delighted that Craig has agreed to join us at Shorts. We have enjoyed significant growth over the last decade and have ambitious plans for the future, and this appointment further strengthens our position as we head into the next chapter of our long history”.

Superior Wellness Appoints Steve Noel to Lead US Expansion

Superior Wellness is pleased to announce the appointment of Steve Noel as the new US General Manager, a strategic role designed to lead the company’s expansion efforts in the United States. With more than 20 years of experience in operations and distribution, Steve brings an impressive background to Superior Wellness, enhancing the company’s capability to deliver on its growth plans.

Steve previously held key roles in distribution and operations, including as Senior Operation Manager at Target Corp., where he managed operations across over 100 Target stores in the Southeast. Additionally, he spent seven years with Sleep Number Inc., overseeing essential functions in manufacturing, warehousing, and distribution. This extensive experience equips him well for his new role at Superior Wellness, where he will be instrumental in establishing and leading the Cameron, South Carolina facility.

Steve expressed his excitement about joining the Superior Wellness team, stating, “I could not be prouder or more excited to join the Superior Wellness team, especially as part of launching the Cameron, South Carolina facility. I’m thrilled to help build something sustainable here in the States that will drive the company’s growth for years to come. We have a beautiful facility in South Carolina that will soon be a showcase for excellence.”

In his new role, Steve will focus on building a strong foundation in warehousing and distribution at the Cameron facility, setting the stage for long-term operational excellence and sustainable growth.

Gareth Ward, Global Sales Director, commented, “We are thrilled to welcome Steve to the US team. His operational expertise and leadership experience are invaluable assets as we expand our presence in the US. I look forward to working closely with Steve as we drive Superior Wellness forward.”
The Cameron facility represents a major step in Superior Wellness’s strategy to grow its footprint in the US market. Under Steve’s leadership, the facility is poised to become a model of operational excellence, contributing significantly to the company’s future success.