Panel of experts to offer practical solutions to survive the cost-of-living crisis
September 5, 2022
Key businesses across Cambridgeshire and Peterborough will gather at Haycock Manor Hotel in Wansford next week to discover the opportunities and risks facing businesses over the next 12 months.
A panel of experts from the finance, banking, business rescue and legal fields will address the key concerns for businesses.
As the cost-of-living crisis unfolds, and interest rates continue to soar, we will explore the options available to businesses and share the practical steps we can take to protect performance.
The British Chambers of Commerce (BCC) has written to the Prime Minister, Chancellor of the Exchequer and both leadership candidates for the Conservative Party proposing a comprehensive five-point plan to provide vital support to UK businesses.
To help address this in the short term, the Chamber has partnered with Pilot Fish Finance to offer this event to make businesses aware of a range of options businesses can take advantage of to support their businesses through this difficult time.
Richard Jones, CEO of Pilot Fish Finance, explains: “Cost of funds has risen sharply and we are likely to see more changes to lending criteria over the next 12 months however, there are still affordable finance options available, and businesses shouldn’t lose sight of their growth ambitions.”
Vic Annells, Chief Executive of Cambridgeshire Chambers of Commerce, said: “We are delighted to partner with Pilot Fish and key panel experts to offer businesses the opportunity to hear about the support that is available at this difficult time.
“The cost-of-living crisis and the cost-of-doing business crisis are two sides of the same coin. The Bank of England’s projections of a recession and consumer confidence at a 50-year low are clear signs that the Government is running out of time to offer businesses and households the support they need.
“These projections are not a surprise to the BCC or the business community; over the last 18 months, BCC research has shown unprecedented inflationary pressures on businesses. Firms cannot afford to wait for the new Prime Minister to be appointed without practical support measures being put in place. Now is the time for action.”
This event is suited to all business sectors and is aimed at business owners, managers, decision makers, leaders and anyone responsible for people in the workplace. ‘How the cost of living is impacting businesses and steps you can take’ takes place at The Haycock Manor Hotel, Wansford, Peterborough, PE8 6JA from 8.00-10.00am on Tuesday 13 September. Cost: £20.00 (plus VAT) per person.
To book or find out more please call Zoe McCabe Brennan on 01223 237414, email z.mccabebrennan@cambscci.co.uk or visit www.cambridgeshirechamber.co.uk
Panel experts
Richard Jones, CEO, Pilot Fish
Richard is a vastly experienced Finance Director with over 25 years’ experience in the finance sector. Richard specialises in helping organisations find finance for growth, devise and implement turnaround strategies and achieve stepped increases in scale. Additionally, he helps property developers to raise finance and to structure multifaceted, large-scale deals unlocking otherwise unattainable projects.
Robin Meynell, Senior Professional Advisor, McTear Williams & Wood
An insolvency advisor with over 13 years’ experience in the advisory sector, Robin works with businesses to find the best solution or outcome. Robin’s background includes working in private accountancy practices, before moving to The Official Receiver’s office to work as an Examiner/Investigations Officer. After joining McTear, Williams & Wood in 2011, Robin now offers advice to both individuals and business owners.
Steve Stafford, Local Director for Peterborough & Cambridge stores, Metro Bank
Steve has over 35 years of banking experience of which 25 of those years have been supporting businesses of all sizes in the local community with their banking requirements. Not only has Steve helped hundreds of businesses grow and support the local economy, he has also helped his customers through challenging times such as previous recessions and more recently with Covid Support and the range of Government backed loans available.
Stephanie Creasey, Partner, Taylor Rose MW
Stephanie is a vastly experienced commercial solicitor with a particular dealing with corporate finance matters, having worked with several major banks and finance providers on lending transactions Stephanie advises on a range of legal issues affecting businesses of all shapes and sizes including company re-organisations, joint ventures, sales and mergers and general commercial work, she is highly recommended by her clients.