chesterfield champions

Trio of Chesterfield Champions announce further growth

22nd August 2023

Three organisations which are part of the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have announced further growth to their teams and wider offer.

Derbyshire Voluntary Action and Bridge Help recently added new members to their teams, while training provider Workpays has expanded its range of qualifications for people in the area.

Find out in more detail in our roundup below:

Workpays expands offerings with Chartered Management Institute qualifications

Chesterfield training provider, Workpays has announced the integration of Chartered Management Institute (CMI) qualifications into its extensive range of offerings.

This strategic move aims to empower professionals with valuable skills and internationally recognised credentials, reinforcing Workpays’ commitment to fostering career growth and helping people to achieve success.

The Chartered Management Institute, widely regarded as a leading professional body for management and leadership qualifications, offers a host of benefits that resonate with individuals and organisations across industries.

A Workpays spokesperson commented: “CMI qualifications not only enhance employability but also open doors to higher-paying roles and increased job satisfaction. With CMI’s industry-recognised credentials, professionals can differentiate themselves in the job market, showcase their commitment to continuous improvement, and gain a competitive edge.

“With Workpays’ expertise in providing tailored training solutions and CMI’s prestigious qualifications, professionals can now access a comprehensive suite of programmes that cater to their specific needs and goals. Whether through online courses or blended learning, Workpays ensures flexibility and accessibility for individuals at different stages of their career journey.”

Derbyshire Voluntary Action welcomes new Deputy CEO & Operations Manager

Derbyshire Voluntary Action (DVA), a leading charity dedicated to supporting and empowering communities, and health and social care in Derbyshire, has announced the appointment of Juliet Grace as the new Deputy CEO & Operations Manager.

Juliet brings with her a wealth of experience from an environmental background, having served with distinction at the National Trust, The Fieldfare Trust, and Green Estate and collaborated with various groups and charities over her career.

Renowned for her problem-solving prowess and arriving with an unwavering passion for contributing to the communities within Derbyshire, Juliet is committed to empowering local individuals to thrive through their involvement with the Voluntary Charity Sector (VCS).

Derbyshire Voluntary Action say that Juliet’s dedication to empowering communities is a perfect match for the organisation’s core values. By embracing her leadership, DVA aims to continue its mission of providing support and resources to those in need, driving meaningful change across Derbyshire.

Juliet commented: “I am honoured and excited to join the exceptional team at Derbyshire Voluntary Action.

“Together, we will work tirelessly to empower individuals and strengthen the social fabric of Derbyshire. I am deeply committed to fostering collaboration and inspiring local people to thrive through their involvement with the Voluntary Charity Sector. Together, we will make a positive impact on the lives of the communities we serve.”

Bridge Help expands Business Development team

Chesterfield-based Bridge Help has appointed Iona Reid to its Business Development team.

Iona brings a background in property sales and lettings to the role, joining the short-term commercial finance provider from Keepmoat Homes where she was a sales executive. Prior to this, she was a lettings manager with a national estate agent.

In her new role as Business Development Manager, Iona will be working with Bridge Help’s broker network supporting them to secure bridging finance for auction purchases, commercial and semi-commercial acquisitions and buy-to-let properties, as well as re-financing existing loans.

Her appointment follows growth at Bridge Help and a surge in new enquiries and there’s no doubt that her expertise and enthusiasm will make her a great addition to the team.

Iona commented on her new appointment saying: “I am really looking forward to working with such a supportive team and within the short-term finance sector. I have plenty of transferable skills from previous roles within the property industry and I’m inspired by new Manager, Katie and what she has achieved!”

Welcoming Iona to the team, Katie Snodden Head of Sales at Bridge Help added: “Iona is a welcome addition to the team as we continue to increase the support we offer to brokers across England and Wales. Her experience in sales and property makes her well-placed to help us continue to deliver great outcomes for their clients.”

Workpays, Derbyshire Voluntary Action and Bridge Help 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, Business, Home, UncategorisedTagged in Bridge Help, Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, derbyshire voluntary action, working in chesterfield, Workpays

BSP Consulting appointed as supplier to the NHS

17th August 2023

East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting has been named as a supplier on an NHS Shared Business Services (NHS SBS) Framework Agreement.

BSP won a place on the Healthcare Planning, Construction Consultancy and Ancillary Services (HPCCAS) Framework Agreement to provide civil and structural engineering services.

The appointment opens up a pipeline of opportunities for the company.

BSP managing director Carl Hilton said: “This is great news for BSP Consulting. Over many years we have completed numerous projects, including new build hospitals and health centres and the re-modelling on many existing hospital sites to help to improve facilities and patient care.

“Being awarded a place on this NHS SBS Framework Agreement highlights our expertise in this field and gives us the opportunity to increase our work with hospitals and other healthcare operators in the future.”

BSP was previously on an NHS SBS Framework Agreement as a sub-consultant but has now been awarded a position in the company’s own right. The framework agreement runs for four years.

“We are currently on more than 20 framework agreements, which is providing a wealth of opportunities for the business – helping to cement our position as one of the largest independent civil and structural engineering companies in the East Midlands,” added Carl Hilton.

BSP is an award-winning firm that operates across the UK, offering civil engineering, structural engineering, transport engineering, geotechnical and environmental engineering.

The company works across all sectors including housing, student accommodation, commercial, industrial, health, education, senior living, retail and heritage.

Recently, BSP was involved in improving the look and feel of the Elder Way area of Chesterfield (pictured below), while also making the area more accessible.

It is one of the businesses working as part of the Chesterfield Property and Construction Group, which brings together business leaders of the region’s property sector and Chesterfield Borough Council to shape and drive forward collaboration, investment, sustainability and skills within Chesterfield.

BSP Consulting 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 BSP Consulting, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction News

Chesterfield Champions announce further success and growth

2nd August 2023

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

Firms including Roaring Mouse Public Relations, Banner Jones Solicitors and MTM Products and Pinelog Ltd. have announced exciting news in recent weeks.

Find out about the latest growth and success stories from across our town in the roundup below.

Roaring Mouse Public Relations partners with Scottish robotics firm

A remote robotics company focused on subsea operations, has appointed specialist B2B technology PR and content agency Roaring Mouse to help support strategic communications as the company moves to its next round of fundraising.

Based in Aberdeen, HonuWorx combines autonomous submarines, robotics, AI and advanced communications technologies to reduce the risk, cost and carbon footprint of subsea exploration and intervention. It enables a wide range of subsea activities to occur without humans having to leave shore.

HonuWorx has engaged Roaring Mouse to reach and help establish a ‘SpaceX of Subsea’ reputation for the company with prospects and potential partners in the European defence, offshore energy and ‘blue economy’ sectors, as well as potential investors.

James Taylor, managing director of Roaring Mouse, comments: “HonuWorx is a true pioneer with a fantastic robotics, AI and communications proposition, a great team and a fascinating ‘SpaceX of subsea’ story to tell. The technology it is bringing to market could fundamentally change subsea access in much the same way SpaceX is opening up access to space, and we are thrilled to be on board.”

New hires and investment for MTM Products

There have been some recent changes at MTM Products Ltd to cater for expanding business: such as a new office for the design estimating and sales teams and new hires.

Over the last 47 years, MTM have established themselves as one of the leading UK industrial graphics suppliers.

MTM Products’ Managing Director , Mark Niblett said: “We have recently invested in new, modern equipment for screen and digital printing and finishing equipment and a digital transformation programme.

“We have expanded our workforce in areas like management accountancy and sales and continue to value our workers with longevity awards across the company.

“Our latest edition to the team is Jess Gardiner, joining the design and estimation team. Jess has recently located from East London – a city in South Africa and has settled in Chesterfield with her husband.

“The business has historically been situated in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, where we have two facilities (two factory units: 0.5km apart). Being in this central region of the country, we are ideally located for distribution throughout the UK, with great transport links to major motorways, ports and airfreight.”

“MTM supply other original equipment manufacturers in the UK & EU particularly: automotive, electrical & electronic, rail, medical, construction and machinery equipment. We provide industry-specific stock management systems including lineside stocking, buffer stocks & call off orders.

“We pride ourselves on our technical/applications engineering expertise, friendly teams, competitive prices and MTM Express quick turnaround service.”

Banner Jones advises on acquisition of Nottinghamshire quality cast stone products manufacturer

Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department has acted for the shareholders in the sale of Nottinghamshire based stone products manufacturer Serene Stone Limited’s shares to Nene Capital.

The business, which boasts a wide range of quality architectural cast stone dressings and concrete solutions, has been acquired by Nene Capital, which will now look to accelerate the business’s growth trajectory over the coming years.

Primarily investing in UK-based SMEs, Nene Capital concentrates on realising long-term value and maintains an active role in commercial operations to support the delivery of strong financial outcomes.

Founded in 2011, the company has been involved in the design and supply of stone materials for highly bespoke projects across the luxury housing and commercial markets.

As part of the deal, Andrew Fielder Head of Banner Jones’ Business Legal Services department – supported by colleague and employment law expert, Katie Ash – advised the sellers on the transactional sale, as well as on the Settlement Agreements and on their Consultancy Agreements with the buyer moving forwards.

Andrew commented: “It was a pleasure to assist Christopher and Paul with the sale of the business that they have worked so hard to develop. All of the professionals involved in the transaction worked very much in partnership, and I am sure that the business will continue to grow and succeed.”

Superior Wellness Appoints New Finance Director

Superior Wellness has announced the appointment of James Orton as the new Finance Director. With over 20 years’ experience across a broad range of sectors, he brings a wealth of experience to the role.

With an impressive career spanning more than two decades, James brings exceptional financial expertise and strategic leadership to his new position.

Before joining Superior Wellness, James was CFO of Nuvias UC Limited, a specialist IT Distributor operating across Europe.

A highly experienced, Financial Board Executive with over 10 years extensive grounding at PwC and a further 10 years of varied experience in industry. His unique experience includes an extensive Corporate M&A track record across multiple sectors and territories and that of financial leadership for fast growing businesses.

As the Finance Director, James will play a pivotal role in shaping Superior Wellness’ financial strategy and driving sustainable growth. He will oversee all financial operations working closely with the Senior Management Team to support the company’s expansion plans and long-term vision.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director said: “We are delighted to welcome James Orton to the Superior Wellness team. His extensive experience and proven track record as a financial leader make him an excellent addition to the team.

“We are confident that James will contribute significantly to our continued success as we continue to grow globally. James’ experience will continue to strengthen our existing team and I am looking forward to working closely with him.”

New Finance Director James Orton said: “I am very excited to join the team here at Superior Wellness. The business is extremely well placed for further significant growth, building upon the strong foundations in place due to the quality of its partner relationships, product offerings, and its people.

Based in Chesterfield, Superior Wellness is the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer with a network of global partners.

New appointment for Pinelog set to drive sales in independent holiday park sector

Judy Barwell has joined Chesterfield-based Pinelog Limited, one of the UK’s leading designers and manufacturers of luxury timber lodges and buildings, as Sales Account Manager.

She joins from Adlington, a developer of award-winning retirement developments. Within her new role Judy will work alongside Associate Director Paula Skelton in driving forward the company’s ambitions to increase its share of lodge supply to the holiday park sector.

She commented: “I am really excited to be working with such a high quality product that uses natural materials. The sustainability credentials of Pinelog are very important to me both personally and professionally.”

Judy, who lives in Dronfield, brings experience in property sales as well as having a design background. She previously worked in a range of design, development and supply chain roles in the clothing industry, as well as lecturing in design for a number of years.

She explained: “The role at Pinelog combines my technical, design and sales experience. As well as understanding the production process, I am able to guide purchasers through the entire process from initial enquiry to the design and delivery of a lodge.”

Her appointment follows the company’s relocation to a new, larger site in Chesterfield, Derbyshire, earlier this year. Prior to its relocation the company had been based in Bakewell since being founded in 1974.

The new, larger site at Sheepbridge has enabled the company to bring its entire production process under one roof, increasing both jobs and production of its class-leading lodges.

As well as the production of complete holiday lodges, components for the construction of timber Glulam framed commercial buildings designed and built by Pinelog are also manufactured at the site.

Welcoming Judy to Pinelog, Nick Grayson, Chairman of Pinelog Group, said: “Judy’s appointment and our move to the new facility marks a new chapter in Pinelog’s story; one which has seen us modernise, invest in new technology and further improve the business to help holiday park operators capitalise on the ongoing demand for staycations.”

Find out more about why Chesterfield is the perfect location to base your business at: https://www.chesterfield.co.uk/business/

Roaring Mouse, MTM Products, Banner Jones and Superior Wellness and Pinelog 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, Business, Development, Home, UncategorisedTagged in Banner Jones Solicitors, Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, MTM Products, Roaring Mouse Public Relations, Superior wellness

Triple Award success for Travel Counsellors

2nd August 2023

Travel Counsellors, an agency which provides people in Chesterfield and beyond with their dream holidays and trips, has taken home three prizes at the Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Awards 2023.

The annual Travel Weekly Agent Achievement Awards are the largest celebration of the travel trade in the UK & Ireland, and the highest accolade for travel agencies and agents. Travel Counsellors won a hattrick of accolades at the event:

Home working Agency of the Year (Large)
Best Agency to Work For (Large)
Sustainability Champion of the Year (Large)

Travel Counsellors prides itself on creating an experience unique to each customer, with every detail taken care of.

Speaking on the company’s award success, Chesterfield-based Travel Counsellor Katie Styring commented: “Personally this is extremely important to me and my business. Sustainability is something that is very important to us, and we are doing our best to drive and improve this across the business. We even have a dedicated person now working in our support team to lead our sustainability strategy.”

“As a business, we collectively strive to ensure we’re delivering the best customer service possible, both across our support teams and our travel agent franchisees.

Speaking about doing business in Chesterfield, Katie added: “My business is built on word of mouth and referrals, with the majority being local customers from Chesterfield. I support businesses locally and I’m an active member of small business networking groups, this has absolutely helped to grow the business to be the success it is, and I am beyond grateful to all clients that have gone on to spread the word.

Find out more about Travel Counsellors and get in touch with Katie at: https://www.travelcounsellors.co.uk/katie.styring/ Alternatively, get in touch via email at katie.styring@travelcounsellors.com or by calling 01246 660006.

The company also has a team which can support businesses in Chesterfield with their travel needs. Chesterfield business we collaborate with to support all their travel needs. Find out more.

Posted in About Chesterfield, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Chesterfield business awards, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Travel Counsellors

Growth and milestones announced for several Chesterfield firms

18th July 2023

Chesterfield businesses are marking further growth, with new staff, office expansions, award nominations and key milestones.

Find out about the latest growth and achievements from across the town’s network of Chesterfield Champions in our latest roundup below:

Demand creates substantial growth for BRM Real Estate Division

Regional Law Firm BRM Solicitors has added to its strong property department, with the recent recruitment taking them to the 24 lawyers.

BRM’s 24-strong team now includes eight directors and counts Woodall Group, Gleeson Homes, Reef Group and Global Brands among its clients.

Whilst the real estate industry is facing challenges, nimble-footed clients continue to succeed by meeting private and local authority housing needs, taking advantage of permitted development rights, developing large-scale storage and distribution sites, embracing cloud data and battery storage projects, refocussing office space to hybrid working, assisting regeneration of city centres by re-gearing and upgrading retail offerings and encompassing science, educational and tech sectors.

To meet changing and increased client requirements, BRM has recruited and trained its team to create one of the largest property legal departments in the region.

Head of Real Estate and Executive Director, Adrian Sheehan, said: “The recent and continuing recruitment drive has been a major step in BRM’s development as we continue to focus on the core elements of its Real Estate offering.

“Our team is regionally recognised as specialists in the field of real estate and property disputes and the team now boast a wealth of experience in this field.”

Head of Dispute Resolution and Executive Director Rob Cooke, said: “The team’s strong track record and breadth and depth of experience is fundamental to our growing client portfolio. This is the start of an important period in the firm’s growth strategy, and we intend to remain at the forefront of the legal property sector for years to come and we have a series of announcements in the coming months that are really exciting for the future of BRM.”

BRM’s property dispute resolution experience is evident in the complex cases they have successfully litigated, including disputes over property rights, breach of contracts, and land use.

For more information on BRM and their legal services, please visit their website or get in touch with their legal team.

BSP Consulting business development manager shortlisted in Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards

The business development manager at East Midlands-based civil and structural engineering company BSP Consulting has been named as a finalist in the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards.

Carrie Booth, who joined the business in 2004 as a junior member of the admin team and now leads the business development side of the operation, has been shortlisted in the Inspirational Leader – Consultant Award.

The awards, which attracted a record breaking number of entries this year, champion the role of women in construction and engineering.

Carl Hilton, managing director at BSP Consulting, said: “We are absolutely thrilled that Carrie has been shortlisted in these national awards. She puts her heart and soul into creating business opportunities for the team, which has played a key role in helping to make BSP Consulting one of the largest independent civil and structural engineering firms in the East Midlands.

“She is extremely capable, tenacious, dependable and 100% committed to her role. She always delivers, not only for BSP but for the numerous groups she is a member of too.

“This shortlisting is very well deserved and we’re sure that anyone in the construction sector in the East Midlands who knows Carrie will be delighted to hear the news that she is a finalist in the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Awards 2023.”

The awards, which are run by Construction News and New Civil Engineer, will be presented at the Inspiring Women in Construction and Engineering Conference in London on 4^th October.

Carrie Booth, who works across BSP’s offices in the East Midlands, said: “I feel very humbled to have been shortlisted in these awards, which turn the spotlight on women working in construction and engineering.

“The shortlist features a list of very talented women from companies working across the construction and engineering sector in the UK and I am honoured to be amongst them.”

Green Arch Consulting celebrates 5 years of business

A Chesterfield Champion which provides specialist strategic sustainability support to businesses of all sizes, has celebrated five years of success.

Green Arch Consulting provides a range of coaching, management consulting and technical advice and support to help their clients deliver business-led, tangible solutions for tackling the sustainability challenge.

Recently, the company has worked with major international firms, such as the Central Bank of Nigeria, and the FTSE 250 listed JLEN.

Emma Knight-Strong, Owner of Green Arch Consulting commented: “Over the past 5 years Green Arch Consulting has worked with clients spanning 5 continents, across multiple sectors, ranging from government departments to national infrastructure providers to FTSE250 companies to SMEs looking to boost their product offerings through integration of sustainability into their processes. I am so proud of the work that we’ve done and I’m excited for the next 5 years!”

Principle Finance expands into new Sheffield based office

Principle Finance, a leading commercial finance and residential mortgage brokerage who are part of the SMH Group, have announced the opening of a new office in Sheffield as a result of their continued business growth.

The new office has been refurbished to meet the company’s requirements and will serve as Principle Finance’s hub for commercial finance operations.

The company’s expansion into their new office comes as a strategic move to allow for future growth of the team and to better serve clients in the region by providing a tailored approach to commercial finance.

Commenting on the expansion, James Furniss, Head of Commercial Finance at Principle Finance, said: “We are thrilled to be opening our new office, which marks a significant milestone for the business. Our expansion is a testament to the hard work and dedication of our team, and the continued support of our clients.

“As a business, we are committed to providing the highest level of service to our clients, and our new office will enable us to work more closely as a team and to be more accessible to businesses across the whole region.

“We are excited about the opportunities this expansion will bring, and we look forward to continuing to provide our clients with the exceptional service they have come to expect from Principle Finance.”

In addition to opening their new office, Principle Finance has also undergone a re-brand along with the development of a new website, which reflects the company’s commitment to providing innovative solutions and exceptional service to their clients.

The new website is designed to provide a more user-friendly experience and showcase the company’s range of commercial financial and mortgage solutions for both business and personal requirements.

For more information about Principle Finance please visit www.principlefinance.co.uk on contact the team on 0330 107 1558 or info@principlefinance.co.uk to discuss your finance requirements in more detail.

BRM Solicitors, BSP Consulting, Green Arch Consulting and SMH Group 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, Business, Celebrate Chesterfield, Development, Home, Love Chesterfield, Property and Construction, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield

Superior Wellness listed among UK’s fastest-growing firms for 2nd year running

23rd June 2023

Chesterfield’s Superior Wellness ranks 30th on the FEBE For Entrepreneurs by Entrepreneurs Growth 100: an annual list that reveals the UK’s fastest-growing privately owned businesses.

Businesses must have sales between £3m and £200m, trading for at least three years and have turned an operating profit in the latest financial year to make it into the top 100.

The Growth 100 celebrates British business at its best – highlighting founders that are driving their companies to deliver significant sales, revenue and profit.

Superior Wellness leads the market as the world’s fastest growing hot tub manufacturer, creating premium, high quality products focused on improving your health and well-being. This year marks the 2nd in succession that the company has been listed on the FEBE Growth 100 list.

The firm continues to innovate and has recently launched new brands Chill Tubs and Hekla Saunas, which are proving a popular addition to its portfolio of products.

The company’s Chill Tubs brand was recently showcased on ITV’s This Morning, with presenter Matthew Wright taking a plunge in the water, which was cooled to 8.3 degrees.

To be on the list businesses must be UK registered, independent and unquoted, meeting the following criteria:

Sales between £3m and £200m
Trading for at least three years
An operating profit in the latest financial year
Founder(s) must still be involved

The Growth 100 annual list shines a light on the finest and fastest-growing privately owned businesses in the country, where the founder or founders are still involved. The Growth 100 is run by FEBE, the club built for entrepreneurs, by entrepreneurs.

Rob Carlin, Managing Director, said: “We were so proud when we heard the news that Superior Wellness had made it onto Growth 100 list. We ranked 30th in Britain for the fastest-growing companies privately owned businesses.

“This is such an incredible achievement for us as a company and a real accolade to the team and their hard work.

“I would like to extend my thanks to all the Superior Wellness team and our partner network for making this possible.”

Superior Wellness 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, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, Chesterfield manufacturing, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, Superior wellness

Chesterfield Champions take part in fundraising and voluntary efforts

22nd June 2023

Businesses in our town’s network of Chesterfield Champions have been getting out in the local area, supporting charities and community organisations.

Companies continue to support worthy causes in Chesterfield and beyond, through volunteering or fundraising. Find out more in our latest roundup below.

Mortgage 1st raises more than £2,500 for Bluebell Wood with charity football tournament

Mortgage 1st, one of the largest mortgage brokerages in Derbyshire, has raised £2,589 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice, by hosting a charity football tournament with its key business partners across the intermediary industry.

Hosted at Goals in Sheffield, the tournament was won by Enable, who ran out as eventual winners in a closely fought final with Meadowhall.

The runners up and winners were presented their medals by friends of the business and footballing legends Paul Wilkinson (Ex-Middlesbrough, Everton, Barnsley) & Iain Dowie (Ex-Crystal Palace, Southampton, West Ham) with the latter playing in the tournament.

Paul Lewis, Head of growth, Mortgage 1st, commented: “We’d like to thank all our business partners and industry friends for their incredible support, having 20 teams on the day was remarkable. Congratulations to Enable on their well-deserved victory and to all the teams for making the journey to the Steel City to play their part in a wonderful day.

“At Mortgage 1st we will always utilise our platform to make a difference where we can, a lot of charities are struggling as the cost of living continues to increase. Bluebell Wood is a charity very close to our hearts and it gave us great pleasure to put this event on to raise awareness and much needed funds for them. Plans are already in place for next year’s tournament and we will stop at nothing to make it even bigger and better in 2024.”

Workpays team Volunteers at Fareshare Midlands

Team members at Chesterfield training provider Workpays have volunteered at Fareshare Midlands as part of this year’s National Volunteer Week.

The team was involved in the heart of Fareshare’s food re-distribution, helping to improve the daily lives of people facing food poverty. Activities included storing incoming food, assisting the drivers, and packing food orders ready for the community.

Workpays’ values include acting as one team and leading with kindness, hence, giving back to the community is very important.

Jeremy Carter, Warehouse Co-ordinator at Fareshare, said: “At the moment, there is a lack of volunteers within the community, so Workpays have helped us out a lot today.

“All of the volunteers got stuck in and are contributing to families who may have a low income or are suffering from food poverty. We have so many decent charities that take part, including rehab centers and hostels, and getting orders out to them before the food expires is crucial.

“The more volunteers we have, the quicker food gets to people who need it the most.”

Alex Glasner, Managing Director of Workpays, said: “I’m incredibly proud of our team volunteering at Fareshare Midlands. Food poverty is a huge social issue and we believe that supporting our communities is key to who we are as a company.”

“At Workpays, we work day in, day out to make sure everyone has the opportunity to get a good education and the career they want.”

CMP Legal hosts pub quiz to raise vital funds for Ashgate Hospice

Chesterfield-based CMP Legal held a Charity Pub Quiz at The Midpoint Bar in Chesterfield on 8^th June 2023 to raise vital funds for Ashgate Hospice.

Over 50 people attended the event which included banks, accountants and clients. The evening included a Charity Pub Quiz followed by a Charity Raffle, all in aid of Ashgate Hospice.

The event was a huge success and CMP Legal raised £945.47 to support Ashgate Hospice.

Jason Skelton, Co-Founder of CMP Legal said: “Ashgate Hospice are such a beloved charity, and we are delighted to have played a small part in raising much needed funds towards the incredible end of life care and support they provide to the local community.”

CMP Legal was established at the end of the pandemic in 2021. Over the past 2 years, the company has gone from strength to strength and has expanded its team from 4 to 9 members.

BHP Chartered Accountants raises more than £37,000 for UK charities

BHP offices at Chesterfield Waterside. Image supplied by Derbyshire Economic Partnership

Chesterfield accountancy firm, BHP has raised its highest ever charity total over the last year, with £37,000 donated to good causes across the country.

Find out more in the company’s post on Linkedin:

Mortgage 1st, Workpays, CMP Legal and BHP 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, Business, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, Chesterfield community news, chesterfield fundraising, chesterfield news, Chesterfield volunteering, Love Chesterfield

Chesterfield’s DCJ Group named as 6th best insurance broker in UKGI

15th June 2023

DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management has been recognised as a top performer and awarded an Insurance DataLab Broker Gold Award for 2023 based on their financial performance.

The Insurance DataLab 2023 Broker Performance Report rated 136 of the largest brokers in UKGI across three key metrics – profitability, growth, and productivity, and DCJ achieved a Broker Rating of 67% for its financial performance.

DCJ was one of eight firms to receive the award for their performance over the last 12 months. The research found that overall performance has remained steady over the last three years, with the market average Broker Rating standing at 52.2% for 2023 – a 0.4 percentage point improvement on the previous year.

David Hadkiss, Director at DCJ Group, said: “We are delighted to have been awarded as one of the UK’s top performing brokers.

“The hard work and dedication of our team is the main factor leading towards our recent growth. A huge thank you to all of our clients for their continuing support, which has allowed us to reach this position.”

DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management was established in Chesterfield in 1991. From fairly humble beginnings, the company has grown to its current position, controlling circa £12 million in premium income and employing 30 staff. Most of this growth has been organic, although the insurance broker has also acquired businesses along the way.

The firm specialises in providing professional advice to its clients in respect of all types of general insurance products to protect the assets and liabilities of businesses and individuals. It is authorised and regulated by the Financial Conduct Authority (FCA) and strives to act professionally at all times, in excess of the benchmarks laid down by the FCA.

DCJ Group 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, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, Chesterfield Insurance companies, chesterfield news, DCJ Group Insurance & Risk Management

Chesterfield Champions set to take on the Sparkle Night Walk for Ashgate Hospice

15th June 2023

Several Chesterfield Champions are getting ready to support one of the town’s largest fundraising events, the Ashgate Hospice Sparkle Night Walk 2023.

The annual event takes place on Saturday, 1st July, and will see thousands of people take to the streets for a 10k walk around the town.

Starting and finishing at Chesterfield FC’s SMH Group stadium, the walk raises vital funds for the hospice, which provides specialist care to families across Chesterfield and North Derbyshire.

Last year the event raised £171,500 for patients and families in need of hospice care.

This year, Ashgate Hospice is adding a bit of extra competition to the event, with workplaces able to battle it out to get to the top of the fundraising leaderboard.

Here at Destination Chesterfield, our team is excited to be getting our hiking boots on for this year’s Sparkle Night Walk. Find out more below about some of the Chesterfield Champions joining us on the night!

Shorts

13 members of the team at Chesterfield accountancy firm, Shorts will be donning their sparkly shorts to take part in the walk.

The firm is taking part in the event under the team name of ‘SPARKLE SHORTS.’

You can donate to their efforts on the night at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/shorts-chartered-accountants3

Banner Jones Solicitors

The Banner Jones Solicitors team is coming together for the 3rd year in a row to sparkle in support of Ashgate Hospice.

On the company’s fundraising page, the team said: “We are proud to have been based in Chesterfield for at least 145 years and we know the valuable work that Ashgate Hospice does for the people of the town. Some of us have seen it first-hand. We are raising money to help the hospice continue providing specialist care to patients and their loved ones.”

To donate to the Banner Jones Solicitors fundraising page for the event, go to: https://www.justgiving.com/team/bannerjones

MD Hair

Michelle Dalman and her team at MD Hair, based at The Glass Yard in Chesterfield will be taking part in the Sparkle Night Walk 2023.

She commented: “I’m taking on the Sparkle Night Walk 2023 to help raise vital funds for the hospice, to make sure that when our loved ones in North Derbyshire face a life-limiting illness, they’ll be able to access the specialist care and support they need.”

Donate to MD Hair’s fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/Mdhair

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park Hotel

DoubleTree by Hilton Sheffield Park will be taking up the challenge of this year’s Sparkle Night Walk, with Ashgate Hospice being selected by the hotel as its chosen charity.

You can donate to team DoubleTree at: https://www.justgiving.com/TeamDoubletree

Valleys Group

Chesterfield’s Valleys Group will be taking part in the walk, under the name ‘Valleys Vixens.’

You can find out more and donate to the team’s fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/amanda-harris39

Rose Cottage Doggy Day Care

Dawn Brown, owner of Rose Cottage Doggy Day care will be taking on the 10-kilometre trek alongside friends and fellow Chesterfield Champions.

She commented: “I’m coming together to sparkle in support Ashgate Hospice on Saturday 1st July 2023. I’m raising money to help the hospice continue providing specialist care to patients and their loved ones.”

Donate to Dawn and her team’s fundraising efforts here.

Mortgage 1st

Chesterfield’s Mortgage 1st has assembled a team to take on the Sparkle Night Walk for Ashgate Hospice.

The firm has been busy with a number of charity efforts recently, including playing host to a charity football tournament which raised more than £2,500 for Bluebell Wood Children’s Hospice.

A Mortgage 1st spokesperson said: “We’d love to raise as much as possible for Ashgate Hospice. A local charity who do an absolutely wonderful job.”

Find out more on the company’s Just Giving page: https://www.justgiving.com/fundraising/mortgage1st

Destination Chesterfield

The Destination Chesterfield team always looks to support local charities where possible, and is delighted to be taking part in this year’s Sparkle Night Walk.

Previously, the organisation has supported Citizen’s Advice at their charity abseil as well as supporting the Alzheimer’s Society. The team is always on the lookout for charity events it can participate in.

Donate to Destination Chesterfield’s fundraising page at: https://www.justgiving.com/page/destination-chesterfield-1685606669039

Spire Radio

The studio at Spire Radio

While not taking part in the walk directly, Spire Radio will have an important role to play on the night.

The station will be keeping participants’ spirits up by providing entertainment at the halfway point of the walk.

If you’re taking part, be sure to keep an eye out for the Spire Radio team at Eastwood Park in Hasland!

Not taking part and still want to be involved? Volunteer as a marshal on the night to help cheer on walkers and keep them safe! Find out more about volunteering at: https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/sparkle-night-walk/

Still want to involve your business at the event? Opportunities are available to sponsor the screens throughout the route. Find out more: https://ashgatehospice.org.uk/product/sparkle-night-walk-screen-sponsorship/

Posted in About Chesterfield, Blog, Business, Destination Chesterfield, Home, Leisure, Love Chesterfield, Uncategorised, VisitingTagged in Ashgate Hospicecare, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, chesterfield charity news, chesterfield events, chesterfield fundraising, chesterfield news, Love Chesterfield, sparkle night walk

New design studio for Chesterfield packaging manufacturer

6th June 2023

Chesterfield-based manufacturer, Robinson has invested in a new state-of-the-art design studio.

The CAD design room is run by a team with more than 50 years’ experience in packaging creation. It includes a DYSS X5 machine for sample making technology, a Sumbel desktop gluer and can produce production standard products and samples in small runs.

The specialist design team have the capabilities and knowledge to design premium packaging to meet key sustainability credentials, both internally and for customers with a 24-hour turnaround time for samples.

Robinson is often thinking of creative ways to use packaging – this recently includes experimenting with hybrid packaging. Careful thought goes into the packaging to ensure it maintains a level of premium feel whilst also being suitable and secure for the products in them, for example luxury glass candles and cakes.

Elouise Boam, New Product Development and Quality Manager is delighted with the new facility. She says: “From a customer’s existing brief or free licence to create, we design and produce packaging in our purpose-built studio, using the latest Kasemake software, DYSS X5 sample table and Sumbel Bench top gluing unit to produce production standard samples, prototypes and small to medium production runs.

“We can turn around a brief in 24 hours, and work with industry leading suppliers of print, print finishing, paper, and board to create beautiful packaging.

“We carry out product and transit testing to ensure the quality and integrity of the finished pack meets the customers’ requirements and exceeds expectations.

“Paper based inserts and supports are our speciality with sustainability, re use and cost-effective solutions at the forefront of our creative design ideas.

With 50 years combined experience of design and technical knowledge we create bespoke packaging solutions from Rigid Board, Carton board or a combination of any paper-based material imaginable”.

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.

This further demonstrates the investment that the company is making in its Paperbox business, following a significant investment in its new SATE box-making machine in Chesterfield, with improved quality and a reduced carbon footprint that allows customers to avoid long, complex supply chains from Asia.

Robinson 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, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in Chesterfield business growth, chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, Chesterfield manufacturers, Chesterfield manufacturing, chesterfield news, Robinson

Eleven learners from Chesterfield’s White Rose Beauty College through to the national final of World Skills competition

5th June 2023

Learners at Chesterfield’s White Rose Beauty College have been announced as finalists for the 2023 UK World Skills event.

The learners will compete across various speciality categories, including the Beauty Therapist, Creative Media Makeup and Nail Technician competitions. The competitions are designed by industry experts to help young people grow personally and professionally, by developing their technical and employability skills.

They focus on upskilling and developing young people, aged 25 and under, from all backgrounds and abilities. After their success at the regional heats which took place earlier this year, the learners will now undergo further training and development from September to October 2023 before competing in the National Finals in November.

Using international best practice to raise standards in apprenticeships and technical education, the competitions aim to support under 25s across the world via competitions-based training, assessment, and benchmarking, to succeed. The national finals will ultimately test learners ability to achieve world-class standards in the Skills Olympics which takes place every two years.

Learners including, Harriet Dolphin, Bobbi Stobbs, Eva Henderson, Ellie Whittaker, Amelia Fox, Kelsey Lawler and Phoebe Botham will put their skills and knowledge to the ultimate test as they battle to win these prestigious competitions in their field.

This is a fantastic achievement for these learners, and White Rose Beauty Colleges, who are a subsidiary of Learning Curve Group and deliver funded training courses in a host of beauty related disciplines, supporting people to upskill and reskill to develop or start their careers in the industry.

White Rose Beauty Colleges have nine academies across Yorkshire and the North West, taking Learning Curve Groups total to 17 hair and beauty academies across the UK. This news comes just two weeks after two of Learning Curve Groups Hair and Beauty learners were announced as finalists in the national VTCT Awards for Student of the Year.

Helen Jones, Head of White Rose Beauty College Chesterfield, said I am absolutely delighted that 11 of our learners have made it through to the World Skills UK finals. This is absolutely fantastic news and really cements that the training we provide at White Rose is of the absolute highest standard and quality within the beauty sector.

“We are proud to have them represent White Rose nationally and we are so delighted that our mission of transforming lives through learning is clear yet again.”

“I wish the learners the best of luck as they prepare for the National Finals in November. We have no doubt that they will excel in their respective categories! Their talent is amazing, and they display the highest level of determination and enthusiasm to win these competitions and build their careers in the beauty industry.”

White Rose was founded in 1996 and has helped thousands of learners gain the skills and experience they need for successful careers in the beauty industry. It delivers a wide range of Beauty Therapy, Holistic Therapy, Sports Massage and Make Up Artistry courses.White Rose is a Centre of Excellence with ITEC, a Flagship Centre with VTCT and a Habia Centre of Expertise, as well as achieving a Grade 1 Outstanding result in its most recent Ofsted inspection.

White Rose Beauty College Chesterfield 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, Celebrate Chesterfield, Home, Love Chesterfield, Made in Chesterfield, UncategorisedTagged in chesterfield business news, chesterfield champions, Chesterfield Education, chesterfield news, Chesterfield Skills, White Rose Beauty Colleges