Ahead of International Women’s Day, businesses are being advised to consider four key approaches to support women in leadership roles within their organisations. FDM Group, a global business and tech consultancy, has shared valuable tips to help businesses address and solve some of the key challenges faced by women in leadership in 2024 and beyond. Women continue to face unique challenges and hidden gender barriers in the workplace, particularly in comparison to their male counterparts and, as a result, they remain underrepresented in senior positions. Detrimental to both women and business, this scenario adversely affects not only gender dynamics but also…
Author: sme-admin
When you think back to sporting heroes from your childhood – do any faces come to mind? I have those heroes too and I’m so lucky that in my profession, I’ve got to know and interview several. One of those is Fatima Whitbread. As a teenager, I saw this woman, looking very toned (unusual then), becoming the best in the world at her sport winning many medals and showing what it takes to be a World Champion. What I did not appreciate was the journey she took to greatness – now I do and I’m honoured to share some of…
New book challenges the status quo of business leadership and reveals the mindset shift needed to lead successful organisational change The challenges facing our business leaders are many and varied – whether it’s the disruption wrought by COVID-19, digitalisation, economic uncertainty or a rapidly changing and disengaged workforce. Much is expected of leaders and plenty of people think they have The Answer, The Fix, The Solution, The Cure, The Magical Silver Bullet… this is the myth of fixability. But the fundamental truth is: there is no such thing as a Silver Bullet. There is no quick fix to complex challenges…
Many employers are struggling to be ready for the series of employment law reforms that are set to come into effect on 6th April, with more than 20% of businesses questioned yet to prepare for these coming changes. This is according to new polling by employment law and HR consultancy firm WorkNest, who asked nearly 300 HR professionals how ready they were for a host of imminent changes to workplace laws. These include new regulations governing leave for carers, the introduction of new maternity and paternity leave protections and reforms to flexible working rights. Least prepared for redundancy rights change The WorkNest…
As the anticipation heightens for the Chancellor’s impending Spring Statement, various industry experts and leaders are proactively voicing their pre-budget comments and wishes. Among them, global tax firm Ryan, emphasises crucial measures to bolster British businesses. Nigel Holmes, Director of Research and Development at Ryan, highlights the significance of strategic changes in VAT thresholds, enhanced accessibility to R&D tax relief, further advancements in full expensing policies, and the revival of VAT-free shopping for tourists. The firm urges the Chancellor to prioritize the needs of UK businesses in the upcoming budget. Meanwhile, Mike Randall, CEO of SME lender Simply Asset Finance,…
The continuing crisis in the Red Sea and the Suez Canal where Houthi rebels have been targeting ships will have a continuing impact on the price of some goods here in the UK. Aaron Lee, who is a chemical sales specialist dealing with importing and exporting worldwide, believes the true impact of this situation is still panning out. “This area of conflict where the Houthis are attacking ships and there are now UK and USA airstrikes taking place, shows no sign of abating yet. This matters because this route is the fastest shipping route between Asia and Europe – almost…
British skiwear disruptors OOSC Clothing are set for global expansion with a government deal which secures them a £1.4 million export finance package. OOSC was started by two friends from Swansea University and now exports to over 110 countries from their regional websites including sales to 49 separate US states. UK Export Finance has supported HSBC UK in financing OOSC to continue ramping up sales in key markets like the EU, USA, Canada, Australia and New Zealand. Launched in 2015, OOSC is an online retailer of retro-styled skiwear, swimwear and gymwear made from recycled plastic bottles and sea waste like…
As entrepreneurs, we invest not only money but years of hard work, dedication, and passion into building our businesses. Therefore, embarking on the journey of selling is a significant milestone and can be marked by a mix of emotions, challenges, and opportunities. Selling a business can be a complex process but mastering the art of preparation can turn it into an exciting and rewarding adventure. Here are some key strategies to make the sale of your business a thrilling and seamless experience. Early preparation is key Early preparation is key when selling a business, and delaying the start of the…
In the hustle and bustle of our professional lives, it’s easy to overlook the significance of workplace health and well-being. Yet, with the average person spending a staggering 90,000 hours at work over a lifetime, according to Andrew Naber, industrial-organisational psychologist and data scientist, nurturing our health while on the job has never been more crucial. To shed light on this vital topic, instantprint, the largest UK-based online printer conducted a comprehensive survey of over 1,000 UK adults, aiming to uncover insights into workplace health habits and their impact. Additionally, they sought guidance from Olivia Bell Macdonald, Head Coach &…
The barriers to unlocking increased social mobility, highly skilled workforces and economic growth have been uncovered by new research today, which reveals over a fifth (22%) of the UK’s top 100* universities still don’t deliver degree apprenticeships** The study was conducted by the University Vocational Awards Council (UVAC) which has over 90 university members and examined the range of job roles*** students can train for when completing a degree apprenticeship. Analysis across the 100 universities found that more work is needed if the UK’s higher education (HE) system is going to be in a position to offer every available degree apprenticeship to…