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Jane McAteer, from Newry, has celebrated success at the Ulster University Business School. A Student on the BSc (Hons) Business Studies degree course, Jane has won the Londonderry Junior Chamber for Industrial Practice prize for being the best placement student.
The award was presented by Catriona Donnelly from sponsors Londonderry Junior Chamber of Commerce at the annual Ulster University Business Schools’ student awards organised by the Department of International Business at the Magee campus.
Speaking at the Awards ceremony, Dr Lisa Bradley, Head of Department said, “These Awards recognise the top performers across the range of Business, Marketing and Accounting related programmes. These students have demonstrated academic excellence, innovative practice and critical thinking in their subject areas, preparing them well for graduate employment and helping address the skills gap in Northern Ireland. They are excellent ambassadors for the Ulster University Business School at Magee and we wish them every success in the future.”
A total of eleven employer sponsored awards were presented. Sponsors included, Schivo Group; McDaid, McCullagh & Moore; Peninsula; Londonderry Junior Chamber of Commerce; CIMA; Bank of Ireland/Diageo; Derry and Strabane District Council; and Anderson Spratt.
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A business breakfast hosted by First Trust Bank in association with Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade has heard how Brexit Represents a ‘Clear and Present Danger’ to NI Economy.
The impending Brexit negotiations and the potential implications of changes in current trade structures, were the topics of discussion by local businesses in the Newry area at the event.
John Fahey, a Senior Economist at AIB provided an economic overview and insight which made it clear that a hard Brexit was most likely and that if that was to be the case, it would represent a clear and present danger for both the Northern Ireland and Republic of Ireland economies. He suggested that Northern Ireland risked being more isolated from Europe and increasingly dependent on the UK export market, which itself could be damaged in the short to medium term by Brexit, as any new trading arrangements would take some time to put in place.
He identified key sectors such as agri-food, manufacturing, tourism, and energy as being particularly vulnerable to the implications of a hard Brexit. While he noted the short term benefits in cross-border trade due to the weakened sterling and the potential for some RoI businesses to consider moving north to secure access to UK markets, he believed that NI would on balance be negatively impacted by a hard Brexit. He pointed to the loss of access to EU structural funds and other EU funding, the likelihood of NI being less attractive for foreign direct investment and the potential damage caused by any disruption and increased costs to trade as the main factors.
At the event, Johnny Hanna, Senior partner at audit, tax and advisory firm KPMG, also shared his thoughts on how businesses can navigate through the ongoing uncertainty and prepare themselves for the changes ahead.
Speaking at the business breakfast which was held in the Newry Conference & Banqueting Centre, Stephen Comer, First Trust Bank said; “While the economic forecast is for Northern Ireland to avoid recession in 2017 as consumers continue to provide support for economic growth, the key issue for both businesses and policy makers remains whether our strengths are sufficient to navigate the unchartered waters brought about by Brexit. We have particular reasons to be worried here in Northern Ireland and indeed on the island of Ireland. Against this backdrop of uncertainty, it is important that we bring as much clarity to the concerns of businesses as possible, so we can try and mitigate against the risks and help identify any opportunities that may be presented. We found the debate today very helpful and we will use the discussions and feedback to reinforce our planning and our ability to best support our customers as we navigate the months and years ahead.”
President Michael McKeown of Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade commented “With the looming uncertainty and challenges ahead, Newry Chamber is committed to informing, educating and representing businesses on the ground to navigate the unchartered waters ahead”.
First Trust Bank hosted a series of regional business Brexit events which also included events in Dungannon and Derry/Londonderry.
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Newry Junior Chamber will be hosting their annual event ‘April Fools But NO Fool in Business’ on Friday 31st March from 7.30am-9am in MJM Group, Carnbane Business Park, Newry.
This year, the NJC have secured two inspiring speakers, Gary Cranney, Associate Director at Haldane Fisher and Liam White, Director at Philip White Tyres.
Gary began his career as a trainee just out of school with the company back in 1979 when they were named Haldane Shiells. Over the years as his skills developed, Gary worked within various roles at the company including stores, counter sales, lorry loading, yard supervision, sawmill manager, buyer, sales rep, operations manager until he moved into his current role as associate director. From Philip White Tyres we will be hearing from Director Liam White about this family run business and how it was built to the success story it is today.
Come along for a morning of networking, breakfast and to hear more about the achievement of both businesses Haldane Fisher and Philip White Tyres.
Guests will also hear some information about Newry Junior Chamber and the benefits of becoming a member. Tickets are available Free to NJC Members and for a small fee of £5 to non-members. Numbers are limited for the event so book early to avoid disappointment via www.eventbrite.co.uk
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Best Property Services have achieved a unique new Investors in People standard and are the only property firm in Ireland to pilot a new generation of IIP assessment.
The company have a long standing history with Investors in People, reflecting Bests commitment to ensure its workforce are well trained, motivated and provide the most professional service to all its clients.
Office manager Edwina Flynn explains: “In October 2016, we were offered the opportunity to be assessed using a new IIP Generation 6 standard, as part of a pilot programme. We felt it was a great opportunity to develop as Generation 6 focuses on achieving high performance and ‘best in class’ HR practices.
“The process helped us to further improve our standards, highlighting some new areas for us to develop, support and motivate our staff to provide the highest standards - so it was a very positive experience.”
Eddie Salmon, Investors in People Practitioner Manager for IIP says: “Best Property Services is the first in its sector across the Island of Ireland to be assessed using the Developed framework and is leading the way for other small business to follow and benefit from this process.
The company successfully met all the requirements of the framework and were accredited using the sixth Gen Investors in People Developed Framework.”
The report stated that the company was found to have ‘a culture which promotes innovation, staff development and demonstrates a willingness to communicate and involve at all levels.’
Eddie adds: “These are key ingredients for success and traits of a business striving to achieve highest standards of performance in service delivery by its people and we congratulate them on their achievement.”
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Expressions of interest are being sought from companies interested in joining a Business Visit to Szczecin in Poland on 15th - 18th May 2017. The visit is being organised by Newry Chamber of Commerce in conjunction with the Northern Ireland Honorary Consul of Poland and The Marshal's Office of the West Pomeranian Region who will assist with setting up and scheduling meetings for companies interested in cooperation with this region.
Mary Meehan, CEO of Newry Chamber commented "This initiative provides the perfect platform for growth orientated companies to explore new sources of raw materials, labour supply, direct sales, partnerships or manufacturing bases. Going as part of a Chamber delegation can certainly add more credence and credibility to the individual company and open many new doors for business".
Jerome Mullen, Honorary Consul of the Republic of Poland commented "Szczecin is an exciting place to do business and offers many opportunities across a range of sectors. Our well established in market links will ensure that participating companies maximise the opportunity to do business there".
Companies will benefit from free in market assistance in setting up pre scheduled meetings as well as enhanced networking opportunities through Civil and Embassy receptions.
To express your interest or to find out more, please contact Newry Chamber on T:028 30250303. Closing date for expressions of interest is Friday 7th April 2017.
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The Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade has booked its own private suite at Down Royal Racecourse on Friday 26th May 2017 and members are looking forward to a fantastic social evening of networking and fun. The Main sponsors of this exciting event are American Airlines & British Airways.
Prizes for best dressed gent and best dressed lady, sponsored by Jack Murphy Jewellers will also be awarded on the day. As part of our main prize, each winner will receive a pair of tickets to London from Belfast courtesy of British Airways as well as a designer watch of their choice.
Caitriona Toner, American Airlines Country Sales Manager for Ireland has said how delighted American Airlines are to be supporting the Newry Chamber of Commerce.
Brenda Morgan, Partnership Manager for British Airways also said British Airways is thrilled to support the Newry Chamber of Commerce and to play a role in this exciting event.
Tickets are priced at £65 per person for members or £75 per person for non members or for a table of 10, it will cost £600 for members and £700 for non members.
Get your tickets booked early by emailing mary@newry.com and see if you will rein supreme on 26th May.
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Two local companies recently attended a world class design festival in Finland thanks to the Creative Momentum Project.
Representing Newry, Mourne and Down District were David Henderson from David Henderson Design, Kilkeel and silversmith Samantha Moore from Crossgar. Samantha outlined the benefits of the festival, “We got to showcase and discuss our work while developing a deeper understanding of the value of design in business. All this while networking transnationally and addressing living and working in a way that addresses sustainability through design”.
The six creatives attended Arctic Design Week 2017 as part of the Creative Momentum Project’s Northern Ireland group (which is led by Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council). Advancing the economy is Armagh City, Banbridge & Craigavon Borough Council’s number one priority, and assisting local businesses to gain greater exposure to international best practice will help grow the economy and promote exporting.
“These businesses are out there on a global platform,” commented Colin McCusker, Chair of Economic Development and Regeneration Committee, “networking with other creative professionals at an international level, exploring potential transnational future partnerships and collaboration. This experience can only lead to increased turnover and new jobs. What an opportunity”.
The festival in Rovaniemi, inside the Arctic Circle, allowed the local businesses to network, exhibit and attend events with Finnish and international designers, bringing together their creative expertise from Arctic regions and further afield.
All participating Northern Ireland businesses were exposed to international best practice which will in turn help generate new export and business development opportunities.
Overall there were six attendees representing the SEED region of Northern Ireland made up of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Ards and North Down Borough Council and Newry Mourne & Down District Council. Other companies supported through the Creative Momentum project include those from the EU regions of Northern Ireland, Sweden, Iceland and the Republic of Ireland with funding from the EU Northern Periphery and Arctic Regions Programme.
Creative Momentum is funded through EU Northern Periphery and Arctic Regions programme and the SEED group of councils of Armagh City, Banbridge and Craigavon Borough Council, Ards and North Down Borough Council and Newry, Mourne and Down District Council.
A creative momentum project' funds the www.MyCreativeEdge.eu website, the Creative Showcase for Europe's Northern Edge. Any creative enterprises based in the five regions can create a free online profile on MyCreativeEdge.
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If you are finishing your A Levels and GCSEs this summer and thinking about your next Steps get down to the Southern Regional College on Wednesday 26 April from 5-8pm to find out more about ‘Higher level Apprenticeship Opportunities’
The SRC in association with Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade is hosting the event which will highlight and promote the range of new higher level apprenticeship options available to A’ Level school leavers. It will also provide information on the huge range of Apprenticeship options on offer for those students completing their GCSEs this year.
Local employers have committed to creating hundreds of new apprenticeship and higher level apprenticeship job opportunities in a wide range of areas. Students leaving school in June 2017 are invited with their parents/guardians to attend this information and employer showcase evening to find out more about these 'local' apprenticeship opportunities starting from September 2017. This is a perfect opportunity for parents and young people to consider more cost effective, alternative routes to achieving degree qualifications whilst working locally.
Brian Doran, Chief Executive at Southern Regional College said “We are hosting this event to highlight the tremendous opportunities that exist locally for school leavers. The new system of apprenticeships provides real jobs for young people right here on our doorstep.
He goes on to say “University is not the only option to young people wishing to obtain higher level qualifications and skills. Young people can now ‘earn and learn’ obtaining degree level qualifications without incurring the level of debt associated with full time higher education. The message is simple - if you want to gain skills and enter the workforce without any debt, then an apprenticeship is for you.”
Those attending this event will be able to meet and discuss potential career opportunities with many local employers who will be promoting a wide range of apprenticeship job opportunities. Some of the apprenticeship/higher level apprenticeship areas include: Science, Accountancy, Mechatronics, Computing Infrastructure, Engineering, Construction and many more…
Mary Meehan, Chief Executive of Newry Chamber said “We are delighted to support this event that aims to bring together employers and apprentices to celebrate the success of apprenticeship schemes whilst encouraging, even more, people to choose an apprenticeship to kick start their career. Apprenticeships are designed to build confidence, learn key skills and gain the qualifications that future employers desire. Providing apprenticeships is a mutually beneficial process and the companies hiring apprentices have as much to gain as the workers themselves with many apprenticeships going on to secure full time jobs”.
Don’t miss out, register for this event at thinkdifferently.eventbrite.co.uk or contact SRC on 0300 123 1223 or visit www.newrychamber.com
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Newry Chamber of Commerce & Trade together with other business bodies and the Community and Voluntary Sector visited Stormont this week to make a final plea to local political leaders, and the two governments to find a way forward for creating a power-sharing government that works for all the people of Northern Ireland.
Michael McKeown, President of Newry Chamber commented "Devolved government is the only option to ensure that our business community continues to grow, attracts new investment and delivers job creation on the ground. As we unite with our fellow business groups and representatives from the community and voluntary sector, our message is clear. We unequivocally state that the best way forward for everyone in Northern Ireland is through a local power-sharing government which needs to progress corporation tax, restore business certainty and ensure that Northern Ireland has a strong voice at the Brexit negotiations".
The business and community and voluntary groups presented an open letter to all members of the Northern Ireland Assembly - calling on local politicians to find a way forward in creating a power-sharing government and a local Executive that works for all people in Northern Ireland.
The bodies that signed up to the letter
. Confederation of British Industry NI (CBI)
· NI Council for Voluntary Action (NICVA)
· Ulster Farmers Union
· Northern Ireland Chamber of Commerce
· Institute of Directors (IoD) NI
· Federation of Small Business (FSB) NI
· Queen’s University Belfast
· Ulster University
· Construction Employers Federation (CEF) NI
· NI Retail Consortium
· Retail NI
· Freight Transport Association (FTA)
· Hospitality Ulster
· NI Food & Drink Association (NIFDA)
· Newry Chamber of Commerce and Trade
· Quarry Products Association NI (QPANI)
· Manufacturing NI
· Women in Business
· Londonderry Chamber of Commerce
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