Business news: The Acumen Business Convention 2013

The Acumen Business Convention 2013 at the Grand Hotel on Thursday 9 May was very well attended and many business leaders were struck by just how good it was. “The team at Acumen Business Law did an amazing job. There were 150 businesses in attendance, which is rare for a business type event in Brighton… Clearly, Acumen, who are a small but fast growing law firm have the mind-set that anything is possible when you focus and aim to deliver a great experience” posted one happy delegate. Another summed up: “What a fantastic event! Tremendously good speakers, great venue, a thoughtful lead-in presentation and excellent networking – I loved it”
Acumen excel at business conventions and this is the fourth year where they have pulled in inspiring speakers. Stephen Ridgeway, CEO of Virgin Atlantic for 14 years, gave a very revealing insight into his journey with the company and his involvement with the entrepreneur’s entrepreneur, Richard Branson. There were humorous pictures of Virgin taking the rise out of BA, and the response by BA chief’s Willie Walsh. The take-home message for all Brighton businesses was dare to do things differently, especially when succeeding against the “big boys”.

Nikki King OBE, MD of Isuzu Truck UK and former Channel 4 Undercover Boss, was hilarious and should be on stage regularly. She not only succeeded against the big boys and the queen bees in business, but became an icon to her Japanese colleagues at Isuzu where she led by example and refused to accept prejudices in the road transport industry.

Grant LeBoff, one of the UK’s leading sales and marketing experts had everyone making mental and digital notes as he fired out the top tips on creating and managing a digital marketing strategy, with the result that the evening networking was abuzz with Google+ and the wisdom of people on the web.

The complimentary cupcakes and the beautiful Siamese fighting fish swimming around in bowls on each table all helped the delegates feel that care, attention and originality had gone into this event.

But the star of the convention was Acumen Business Law and their founder and MD Penina Shepherd who delivered an excellent introductory speech. Following the comic compere, Donny, Penina gave a great insight as to what makes not only a good business leader, but a happy person. Determination and purpose. “Don’t confuse success with happiness” was another take-home message. All in all, a great convention with everyone looking forward to booking their place for 2014.
Acumen Business Law, Hove Street, Hove BN3 2DE, 0845 867 8978, www.acumenbusinesslaw.co.uk

Stop press: Hove MP to host a public meeting on the future of the King Alfred

Mike Weatherley, the Conservative Member of Parliament for Hove and Portslade, is to host a public meeting on the future of the King Alfred on Friday 24 May at Hove Town Hall.

Mike recognises that one of the most pressing issues within his constituency is the redevelopment of the King Alfred Leisure Centre. Keen to hear what residents have to say about what they want from a new leisure centre, Mike has decided to host a public meeting to gauge public opinion. Commenting, Mike said: “Brighton & Hove desperately needs a new first-class leisure centre
to replace the crumbling King Alfred and I want to hear directly from residents what they want from this new multi-million pound facility..”

The meeting takes place Friday 24 May, doors open 1pm for a 2pm start.
For more information, please contact Mike on mike.weatherley.mp@parliament.uk or 020 7219 7216.

Question: which estate agent has all the answers?!

The Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association (BHEAA) are hosting a quiz for members on Thursday 23 May at The Hove Station pub (adjacent to Hove Station), with a complimentary drink on entry and nibbles on offer it really is an event not to be missed. Latest Homes is sponsoring the event and have donated prizes on the night. “During my year as president of the BHEAA I am keen to ensure the association moves forward with better communication to the members and to incorporate fun participation events and activities,” says James Epps, President of the BHEAA. Following the success of the BHEAA quiz in 2010, it seemed long overdue to give the members the chance to pit their wits against each other and see who comes out on top.”

“We are delighted that Brighton & Hove Estate Agents Association is holding a Quiz Night in memory of Glen Mishon,” adds Robert Griffiths, director of fundraising at The Martlets Hospice. He was a lonstanding supporter of the Hospice and we are honoured to be the beneficiaries of the evening. We hope the evening is a great success – good luck to everyone taking part.”

The BHEAA quiz, The Hove Station Pub, Thursday 23 May. Tickets are £12 per person with teams of 4 maximum. Tables are selling fast so contact James Epps on 01273 688881 or jamese@oakleyresidential.com to reserve your table now!

James Epps of Oakley Residential (3 North Road, Brighton) is Director & President of the BHEAA. www.bhea.org.uk