Business London Press

Carplus Appoints Learning & Development Director Graeme Mitchell, Bolstering Position as Premier Car Finance Broker

Finance

News Desk

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11/10/2023

Carplus Appoints Learning & Development Director Graeme Mitchell, Bolstering Position as Premier Car Finance Broker

Carplus, a prominent car finance broker located in Borehamwood, is pleased to announce the appointment of Graeme as its new Learning & Development Director. With over 15 years of sales experience and an additional 7 years in executive-level roles focused on delivering targeted training and development solutions, Graeme brings unparalleled expertise in efficient sales processes, product training, high-performing team leadership, and strategic business development. His arrival signifies a significant step forward in enhancing Carplus’s growth strategies and optimising day-to-day operations.

A Visionary Leader with an Impressive Track Record

Graeme’s appointment underscores his exceptional leadership abilities and a remarkable history of success. With a demonstrated proficiency in effective onboarding processes, talent retention, and the implementation of profit-generating strategies, Graeme is poised to lead Carplus to new heights in the competitive car finance industry.

Specialisation in Company Growth Strategies

Graeme’s expertise lies in crafting comprehensive company growth strategies that drive success. His wealth of experience in sales and training, coupled with his ability to forge strong relationships with industry-leading partners, will accelerate the company’s ambition to become a major player in the market. Carplus is excited to have a visionary like Graeme on board, as he embodies the energy and ethos that align seamlessly with the company’s mission.

Paving the Way for Enhanced Development

As Learning & Development Director, Graeme will spearhead Carplus’s efforts to optimise revenue streams through streamlined processes, ensuring efficiency and excellence at every level. His commitment to fostering a high-performing team culture that values innovation and collaboration is set to promote a customer-centric approach, enhancing the overall car finance experience for clients.

“We are excited to welcome Graeme as the new Director of Carplus,” said Roman Danaev, the CEO of Carplus. “His extensive experience and proven abilities make him an invaluable addition to our team. We believe that under his guidance, Carplus will continue to thrive and reinforce its position as a premier car finance broker.”

Graeme’s appointment as the Learning & Development Director of Carplus represents a strategic move for the company. His exceptional skills in sales, business development, and growth strategies make him an ideal fit to lead Carplus in the highly competitive car finance market in London, UK. With a visionary trainer like Graeme at the helm, Carplus is well-positioned to strengthen its position as a leading car finance broker, offering unparalleled services to its clients.

Gridserve strengthens salary sacrifice offering with Go Zero Charge home charger

News

News Desk

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10/10/2023

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Gridserve strengthens salary sacrifice offering with Go Zero Charge home charger

Gridserve is now offering Go Zero Charge’s smart EV home charger, as the sustainable energy company bolsters its salary sacrifice electric vehicle (EV) scheme.

By joining the Gridserve salary sacrifice EV scheme, customers receive a brand-new EV in exchange for giving up a proportion of their pre-tax salary.

The forward-thinking approach includes servicing, insurance and breakdown, the option of charger installation and a commitment to plant one hundred trees per customer.

Employees can save up to 40% on the cost of an electric car lease, while employers can underscore their commitment to reducing carbon emissions and contributing to a greener at a time when the positive image of sustainability has never been more crucial.

The ‘Optimus’ new high-tech charger joins a full complement of existing benefits on the Gridserve salary sacrifice scheme already, including three months’ charging included on the nationwide Gridserve Electric Highway; chargers are at over 170 locations with the fastest chargers delivering 100 miles of charge in just five minutes.

Robert Buckland, chief leasing officer for Gridserve Leasing said: “The Optimus is the perfect home charger; the product is tried and tested with market leading and innovative software, along with superb customer support from survey, installation and onwards.

“This new option makes for an attractive offer for both employers and employees. We are so pleased to be able to provide this cost-efficient scheme as every vehicle that switches to EV supports our mission to move the needle on climate change. We look forward to working with Go Zero Charge to offer a great home charging option as we welcome more businesses and their employees to our salary sacrifice scheme.”

The Optimus home charger is equipped with cutting-edge technology that delivers exceptional reliability and total peace of mind for homeowners, including the built-in health check system that updates every 60 seconds.

Reliability is imperative for EV drivers – rather than visiting a petrol station, an EV driver relies on their home charger for fuel. The Optimus’ 60-second ‘heartbeat’ monitor sets it apart from other choices.

Driven by an intelligent mobile app that maximises convenience, homeowners also gain easy access to a range of advanced charging functions with the Optimus. Homeowners can schedule charges based on cheaper, off-peak tariffs to save money on electricity bills and have the unique opportunity to rent out their charger to earn a supplemental income while at work or on holiday.

The Optimus is the leading choice for would-be and current EV drivers, such as Gridserve salary sacrifice customers, who want a home EV charger that delivers convenience, reliability and savings.

David Wells, chief executive officer at Go Zero Charge, said: “Go Zero Charge is thrilled to work with Gridserve, enabling as many employees as possible to make the transition to EVs.

“The UK ban on new petrol and diesel cars production continues to loom in 2030. For businesses, now is a great time to implement a salary sacrifice scheme around EVs – look no further than battery electric cars accounting for 20.1% of new cars reaching the road in August as proof that EV adoption is accelerating.”

From Curvy Model to Global Investment Consultant: A Remarkable Transformation

Fashion

News Desk

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10/10/2023

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From Curvy Model to Global Investment Consultant: A Remarkable Transformation

A striking model with captivating curves and a dedicated mother, Andrea Quevedo, is on a mission to establish herself as a prominent international investment consultant, aiming to make her mark in the world of business.

Born in Venezuela and raised in the scenic Canary Islands, Andrea’s diverse heritage, which includes Lebanese roots, adds an extra layer of allure to her already mesmerizing presence.

As both a devoted mother and an international investment consultant, Andrea Quevedo epitomises the ideal fusion of beauty and intelligence. Her life journey, spanning from Venezuela to the Canary Islands and now to the vibrant city of London, has molded her into a multifaceted individual with a global perspective and an unwavering drive for success.

Her striking appearance and multifaceted career have thrust her into the spotlight of both the fashion and investment sectors.

Andrea’s foray into the world of modeling has been nothing short of extraordinary. Her curvaceous physique and striking features, influenced by her Latin American and Lebanese heritage, have captured the attention of renowned fashion brands and industry experts alike. With the ability to exude confidence and grace during photoshoots, Andrea swiftly ascended to become a sought-after model, challenging conventional beauty norms and inspiring others to embrace their uniqueness.

Beyond her modeling endeavors, Andrea Quevedo has carved out a niche for herself as an international investment consultant. Drawing from her extensive experiences and knowledge acquired through her tenure at various investment firms, Andrea has exhibited an aptitude for navigating intricate investment strategies and offering invaluable insights. This has earned her a well-regarded reputation among her peers in the industry.

Despite her demanding schedule, Andrea remains committed to her role as a loving mother. Successfully balancing her professional commitments with her responsibilities as a parent, she stands as a beacon of inspiration for working mothers worldwide, demonstrating that it is indeed possible to chase one’s dreams while nurturing a family.

Andrea Quevedo’s magnetic presence and captivating beauty, influenced by her unique blend of Latin American and Lebanese heritage, have solidified her as a true powerhouse in both London’s modeling and business arenas. Her journey, spanning from Venezuela to the Canary Islands and onward to the fashion capital of the world, has only just begun, and her trajectory indicates that even greater successes lie ahead.

Life’s Blueprint Unveiled: Stanislav Kondrashov’s Achievement

News Desk

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10/10/2023

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Life’s Blueprint Unveiled: Stanislav Kondrashov’s Achievement

Today marks the release of a groundbreaking publication titled “Unlocking the Human Genome” authored by Stanislav Kondrashov.

In this captivating exploration, Kondrashov delves into the intricate and far-reaching significance of the human genome. He commences by describing the genome as “the biological manuscript that has scripted our existence,” setting the stage for a comprehensive examination of its various dimensions, from the minutiae of cellular DNA to the profound ethical questions surrounding gene manipulation.

According to Stanislav, the human genome is akin to a complex tapestry of DNA present in every cell of our bodies. It not only governs our physical characteristics but also influences our susceptibility to diseases. He metaphorically likens this to an elaborate jigsaw puzzle, emphasising that we are merely beginning to identify the corner pieces. Stanislav posits that beyond the letters A, T, G, and C that compose DNA strands, lie narratives of ancestry, survival, and adaptability, waiting to be deciphered.

Kondrashov also highlights the fascinating structural aspect of the genome, revealing that if the DNA within a single cell were unraveled and stretched out, it would extend to nearly six feet in length. Astonishingly, it manages to snugly fit within the microscopic nucleus of the cell. The publication delves further into the concept that genes are not immutable blueprints but rather dynamic entities, capable of being activated or deactivated by external influences such as behaviors and experiences, thereby asserting that our lives actively mold our genes.

Stanislav proceeds to explore how the comprehension of the human genome holds transformative potential for the field of medicine. He envisions a new era of personalised medicine, where treatments can be tailored based on an individual’s genomic predispositions to diseases. However, as the capabilities of gene editing continue to advance, Stanislav raises thought-provoking ethical concerns. He questions where society should draw the line when it comes to manipulating our genetic makeup.

In closing, Kondrashov celebrates the international collaboration that was instrumental in mapping the human genome. He underscores that it was a collective effort that united a diverse range of experts from around the world.

Readers are encouraged to delve into the full publication and watching the accompanying video for a deeper understanding of this groundbreaking work.

Everyone is invited to explore Stanislav’s social media channels, and for more insights and content from Stanislav Kondrashov, visit www.stanislavkondrashov.com.

Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock latest to receive racist abuse after 2-1 loss to Manchester United

Sports

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09/10/2023

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Brentford defender Ethan Pinnock latest to receive racist abuse after 2-1 loss to Manchester United

“Racial discrimination is a stain on our sport and society”, a statement from Brentford read as defender Ethan Pinnock was subject to racial abuse following the Bees 2-1 loss to Manchester United on Saturday.

In what was one of 20 Premier League fixtures selected in October to be dedicated to the Premier League’s No Room for Racism campaign sadly highlighted further the issue in its entirety. As Brentford held a 1-0 lead for most of the game, they went on to lose 2-1 after two late goals in added time from Scott McTominay.

Brentford released a statement condemning the “cowardly” racist abuse received by the Jamaican on social media platform Instagram:

“Racial discrimination is a stain on our sport and society, and we will continue to fight against it.

“We have initiated an investigation and will be seeking the support of the police and [Instagram owner] Meta to identify the perpetrator and hold them accountable.

“This is a crime, yet it happens all too often.

“When can we expect the social media companies to fully use their resources and technology to provide us with the safer online experience many of us want?

“Ethan has our full support at this time.”

Brentford FC strongly condemns the cowardly racial abuse directed at our player, Ethan Pinnock, on Instagram

Racial discrimination is a stain on our sport and society and we will continue to fight against it
— Brentford FC (@BrentfordFC) October 8, 2023

New trio hire for property consultancy Fisher German

Appointments

News Desk

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09/10/2023

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New trio hire for property consultancy Fisher German

Fisher German is pleased to announce three promotions from their new London office, including a new salaried partner, following a strong period of success for the firm.

Fisher German has invited Ed Moore (pictured) to join the partnership, with Doug Gordon becoming senior surveyor and Simon Pratt being named head of IT change.

Ed, who joined Fisher German as part of the merger with Matthews & Goodman in 2022, has more than 20 years of experience in the industry and is delighted to have been invited into the partnership.

He said: “The merger has created the largest national firm of independent UK property consultancies and I’m proud to be actively launching and building on the existing central London agency presence.”

Fortuitous timing

He added: “It is fortuitous timing to become a partner during such an exciting period for the business and be part of a team able which can offer such a wide range of service lines from a growing office coupled with an enhanced wider national network.

“The core London and fringe office markets continue to witness the acceleration of tenants considering relocations enabling an upgrade to ‘best in class’ – often pre-fitted, landlord space with top-level sustainable and green credentials.

“This is not surprising given the ESG drivers influencing a lot of Board decisions. Conversely, we continue to advise tenants who wish to explore ‘stay vs. go’ options with the possibility of landlord contributions unlocking latent value in existing premises.

“In the short term, the Q4 seasonal ‘back to work’ footfall has risen yet again, and this is likely to prompt further review from tenants of their use of office space leading to increasing transactional volumes and continued trends moving into 2024.

“In the medium to long term, landlords holding a surplus of second-hand non-prime stock are likely to be looking hard at their assets and portfolios in terms of comprehensive refurbishment vs. re-purposing.”

Fisher German has promoted 39 colleagues across all areas of its business following another six months of success for the firm.

New office

The news comes after Fisher German announced it is opening a new office at 15 Colmore Row – a prominent address in the centre of Birmingham – as it looks to grow its presence in and around the UK’s second city.

Senior partner, Duncan Bedhall, said: “It is always a privilege to announce colleague promotions and to reflect on their achievements as they progress through our business.

“Seeing such a variation of roles across the Divisions is reflective of our continued growth and the diversity of services we offer, and it’s great to see how much this has evolved over the last few years.”

Businesses advised how to ensure AI is used safely

AI

News Desk

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09/10/2023

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Businesses advised how to ensure AI is used safely

UK business leaders have been urged to follow five steps before implementing any new artificial intelligence (AI) programmes or technologies within their organisations.

Patrick Wake, group director of information security at FDM Group has offered insights into what businesses should do to ensure that AI is used safely and effectively by their workforce.

He explains that AI can support businesses in various ways, from automating repetitive tasks to enhancing customer service experience. AI algorithms can also analyse vast amounts of data quickly, providing valuable insights and aiding in data-driven decision-making.

Risks need to be managed

However, Wake says that if it is not implemented and used correctly, the use of AI in businesses can present certain risks that need to be acknowledged and managed.

For example, there is a potential for biased decision-making if AI algorithms are trained on biased or unrepresentative data, leading to discriminatory outcomes. Another risk is the possibility of privacy breaches when dealing with sensitive user data.

Mr Wake said: “AI can optimise various business processes leading to cost savings and improved resource allocation. In turn, this allows businesses to gain a competitive advantage in their markets.

“But if used incorrectly or if business leaders don’t prepare their organisations properly before implementing these AI-led programmes and software, it can also present significant risks.

“However, businesses can address these potential risks by doing their research, providing effective training to staff, refraining from inputting sensitive information into AI systems, and verifying any information and responses produced by AI programmes.”

Five ways to ensure AI is being used safely in your business:

Do your research

When businesses are starting to look at implementing AI programmes, it’s vital that they do their due diligence. Does the programme have a good reputation? What is its data set based on? Does it have bias?

Doing ample research will also help businesses understand the specific needs and goals they aim to achieve through AI integration. This will enable them to identify the most suitable AI technologies and providers that align with their requirements, as well as assess potential risks, limitations, and ethical considerations associated with AI usage. This will all help businesses ensure compliance and avoid any potential negative consequences.

Train your workforce

Businesses need to recognise the impact that AI implementation will have on the workforce and plan for effective change management. They should also provide sufficient training and support to help employees adapt to AI technologies whilst ensuring that they understand the benefits and limitations of AI to foster a smooth transition.

Training staff before implementing new AI technologies will help familiarise employees with the capabilities and functionalities of AI systems, enabling them to leverage these technologies effectively. Training also ensures that employees understand the purpose and potential benefits of AI, encouraging acceptance and ultimately reducing resistance to change. Additionally, it equips staff with the necessary skills to operate, monitor, and interpret the outputs of AI systems accurately.

Keep private information safe

Businesses should refrain from uploading or inputting sensitive or private information into AI systems or chatbots to safeguard the privacy and security of their data. This is crucial to mitigate the risk of unauthorised access, data breaches, or misuse of sensitive information.

By avoiding the inclusion of personal data, businesses can protect customer privacy, maintain compliance with data protection regulations, and mitigate potential legal and reputational risks. It is important to prioritise data protection measures and ensure that AI systems are designed and implemented with strong security protocols to maintain trust and confidentiality.

Verify information and responses

It is vital for businesses to verify the results, information, and responses generated by AI or chatbots to ensure accuracy and reliability, as generative AI systems can sometimes produce incorrect or biased outcomes due to limitations in training data or algorithmic biases. By verifying the outputs, businesses can avoid misinformation, prevent potential harm to customers, and uphold their reputation.

Regular monitoring and verification will also help identify any system errors or anomalies, allowing for timely corrections.

Cite sources

Businesses should cite their sources when publishing data or information collected by AI systems to ensure transparency, credibility, and accountability. Citing sources allows others to verify the accuracy and legitimacy of the data, promoting trust and reliability. It also helps prevent the spread of misinformation and enables others to build upon the research or findings.

How employers can attract younger generations into their industry

Business

News Desk

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09/10/2023

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How employers can attract younger generations into their industry

As school leavers continue to navigate their post-exam career options, a recent survey by Grant Thornton reveals that young people have misconceptions about careers in accountancy.

These create barriers that make certain roles and future careers seem unattainable to younger people.

Neil Finegan from DLC Training, who specialises in learning and development, has shared key priorities employers across all industries must consider in order to attract Gen Z into their workforce.

Embrace online platforms

“In the last year, #careeradvice has had 10,000 posts on TikTok across the UK with 120 million views – 69% of whom were aged 18-24. This should tell employers exactly where they need to reach out and place their brand to attract a younger generation of talent.

“Sharing advice and information on your sector in digestible content is an easy way for you to reach a younger audience and attract them to your sector.”

Offer diverse career pathways

“Many young people still believe they have limited options once they’ve left school to build a career. Providing a range of pathways to access your company means you will attract younger talent who may not have a CV of experience, who may not have had a successful exam period or who have an interest in the industry.”

Be transparent about professional development

“Learning and development should be a huge part of your business, anyway, but this needs to be crystal clear to younger generations early on. Mapping out the progression individuals should expect from their role, advertising a range of courses they can take to continuously grow and being transparent about what learning opportunities are available will demonstrate how serious the business takes professional development and will attract a younger audience.

“The generation of self-improvement, Gen Z are attracted by opportunities and extra training they can add to their CV – companies that get this will offer more attractive traits for new talent.”

Create an inclusive workplace

“Gen-Zs value a workplace that values its people. By creating an inclusive workplace for all ages and backgrounds, you will not only progress your business to where it should be in 2023, but you’ll find a new wave of talent who appreciate it, too. Empower employees, offer a diverse leadership team and create a culture of inclusivity.”

Offer flexibility

“It’s no surprise that working for a distance learning provider, I would champion flexibility, but this is becoming ever popular with younger generations, too. Creating a work environment that is understanding of life outside of work, is flexible in where and how its employees can contribute, and who even allows remote working is going to attract the new talent in the post-covid work landscape.”

Discover more employment advice for HR professionals and business leaders on the DLC Training website.

Stanislav Kondrashov’s Perspective on Traditional Art in the Modern Digital Landscape

News Desk

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09/10/2023

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Stanislav Kondrashov’s Perspective on Traditional Art in the Modern Digital Landscape

Stanislav Kondrashov has recently unveiled his latest publication, titled “The Forgotten Art of Calligraphy.” In an age dominated by digital communication, Kondrashov passionately argues that the ancient art of calligraphy remains a pertinent and eloquent means of expression.

Kondrashov embarks on a journey through the rich historical tapestry of calligraphy, tracing its origins across various ancient civilisations, from the dynasties of China to the empires of Islam and the medieval Europe. He underscores that calligraphy has always been a revered practice, transforming text into a captivating art form. For Kondrashov, it is the intricate details in calligraphy that hold its true beauty. Each stroke, line, and dot is meticulously crafted, forming what he describes as a delicate dance of the pen on paper.

The publication illuminates the meditative nature of calligraphy, highlighting its requirement for patience and intense focus. This meditative quality, according to Kondrashov, immerses artists in a state of mindfulness. He asserts that calligraphy serves as a tactile bridge to history, allowing practitioners to engage with centuries-old traditions and cultural subtleties.

In the midst of our digital era, Stanislav Kondrashov contends that calligraphy is experiencing a renaissance. He emphasises the modern applications of calligraphy, with its stylistic elements gracing everything from wedding invitations to corporate logos. Personal expression is a central facet of this art, as Kondrashov underscores that each calligrapher infuses their work with their unique personality.

Beyond its aesthetic allure, the publication explores the therapeutic aspects of calligraphy. The graceful and deliberate movements involved can offer solace and grounding, serving as a form of healing. Kondrashov further notes that calligraphy transcends the realm of mere lettering; it is a holistic celebration of culture, history, and human creativity. By engaging in calligraphy, individuals not only enhance their handwriting but also unlock a doorway to a vast world of creativity, exploring various styles, scripts, and techniques.

Stanislav Kondrashov concludes his publication with a call to action, urging readers to embrace calligraphy and ensure that this ancient and exquisite form of writing does not fade into obscurity. He invites readers to delve deeper into the importance and relevance of calligraphy by accessing the full publication and watching the accompanying video.

Stanislav encourages everyone to explore his social media channels and access additional insights and content on his website, www.stanislavkondrashov.com.

From Malawi Beach to UK Stages: Gasper Nali and His One-String Babatoni Guitar Tour with Reggae Poet Michael Mountain

News Desk

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09/10/2023

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From Malawi Beach to UK Stages: Gasper Nali and His One-String Babatoni Guitar Tour with Reggae Poet Michael Mountain

North Malawi’s very own Gasper Nali is embarking on a remarkable UK tour featuring 21 electrifying performances, accompanied by celebrated Reggae Poet Michael Mountain.

Gasper Nali has earned acclaim from renowned publications like Songlines and RootsWorld for his distinctive and high-energy dance music, all of which is played on his handcrafted one-string Babatoni guitar. Notably, his Babatoni is believed to be the largest of its kind globally, making his instrument as unique as his talent.

Nali passionately describes his creation: “This guitar I make myself. The name is babatoni. I also bring that mgolo (large bass drum). I cut two pieces out of an old oil barrel, one for the mgolo and the other for the guitar, and then I add the bluegum (eucalyptus fretboard) and wrap them with cow skins. And I make a kick pedal to beat the drum. You cannot buy a babatoni, that’s why I make it all myself.”

Gasper Nali’s journey to becoming an internationally touring artist is an inspiring tale of resilience. Hailing from rural Northern Malawi, one of Africa’s poorest regions, Gasper originally performed alongside his two brothers, busking in nearby villages. Tragically, after the untimely passing of his brothers, Gasper took it upon himself to carry forward their musical legacy.

The turning point in Gasper’s career occurred when a video of his performance, posted on social media, garnered an astonishing 18 million views. It was then that Gasper caught the attention of music project manager Mattias Stålnacke, who collaborated with the artist to professionally record his music. Their partnership continues to thrive, boasting over 1 million streams on Spotify alone.

Gasper Nali is set to grace stages across the UK in September and October. Below, you can find the tour dates:

Tour Show Dates:

Suffolk – John Peel Centre – October 7th
Colchester – Colchester Arts – October 8th
Settle – Victoria Hall – October 10th
Bury – Bury Met – October 11th
Hebden Bridge – Trades Club – October 12th
Newcastle Upon Tyne – Star & Shadow Cinema – October 13th
Glasgow – Hug & Pint – October 14th
Brighton – The Rose Hill – October 18th
Manchester – The Vale – October 19th
Isle of Man – Centenary Arts – October 20th
Whitby – Musicport Festival – October 21st
Northampton – Gabribadi Hotel – October 22nd
Liverpool – Liverpool Philharmonic Hall – October 25th
Weston-super-Mare – Loves Café – October 26th
Bristol – Lost Horizon – October 27th
Aberystwyth – Art Centre – October 28th

Don’t miss this opportunity to witness Gasper Nali’s incredible musical journey from the shores of Malawi to the stages of the UK.

Fortuitous timing

New office

Risks need to be managed

Five ways to ensure AI is being used safely in your business:

Do your research

Train your workforce

Keep private information safe

Verify information and responses

Cite sources

Embrace online platforms

Offer diverse career pathways

Be transparent about professional development

Create an inclusive workplace

Offer flexibility

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