Today marks International Women’s Day, a global celebration of the social, economic, and cultural achievements of women.
It is a day to recognise the progress made towards gender equality and to highlight the ongoing work that still needs to be done.
In honour of this day, we are thrilled to showcase the incredible work carried out by our predominantly female team.
The 16 strong Connect Derby team are a skilled and experienced, predominantly female group comprising of operations managers, business development managers, customer service assistants and accountants.
Their principal aim is to ensure Connect Derby delivers the highest possible levels of service to tenants across its six managed workspaces and the wider business community in the city who use its additional services, including meeting and conference facilities.
Connect Derby’s female management team succeed in navigating the difficult task of delivering a commercial model to the private sector within the confines of public sector government and decision-making – a task that undoubtedly presents a number of challenges.
This requires a delicate balance of business expertise, strategic thinking, and adaptability throughout the team.
The Connect Derby team demonstrate outstanding leadership qualities and a strategic vision in driving success in a complex environment. They successfully balance the needs of both public and private sectors while fostering collaboration across the team and serve as an inspiration to all women in the workplace.
The team recently demonstrated outstanding leadership in their role supporting Rolls-Royce, the University of Derby and Nuclear AMRC to bring the exciting new Nuclear Skills Academy to the iHub innovation centre on Infinity Park.
The new Academy will ensure new apprentices have access to the best courses and mentors throughout their apprenticeship. It is anticipated that the NSA will train 200 apprentices each year for 10 years, creating a dedicated pipeline of young talent for this fast-growing sector.
The team worked closely with Rolls-Royce, the University of Derby and Nuclear AMRC to provide a home for the Nuclear Skills Academy and worked creatively to find alternative fit-for-purpose locations to rehouse the existing iHub businesses.
The management team at Connect Derby exemplify the spirit of International Women’s Day, demonstrating determination and resilience in all situations.
They are an excellent example of female leadership in the workplace, delivering a commercial model to the private sector within the confines of public sector governance and decision making.
Looking for a new retail unit in the heart of Derby’s Cathedral Quarter?
A prominent retail space spanning 61.2 sq m/659 sq. ft has just become available at 37 – 38 Queen Street, Derby, DE1 3DS.
Located in a prominent position on the corner of Queen Street and Cathedral Road in the heart of the bustling Cathedral Quarter area of Derby city centre, this retail unit offers an exceptional opportunity for businesses looking to establish themselves in a vibrant and high-traffic location.
It is just a stone’s throw from Sadler Gate, the Market Place and the lively Iron Gate area with its range of restaurants and bars and just a 10-minute walk from the Derbion shopping centre and the Bus Station.
The property comprises a ground floor retail unit with a commanding corner position and return frontage, accompanied by associated ancillary accommodation.
Ground Floor sales: 61.2 Sq M/659 Sq Ft
Ground Floor Ancillary: 26.4 Sq M/28 Sq Ft
Seeking offers in the region of £15,000pa by way of a new five-year lease, directly from the landlord, Derby City Council, with a mutual three months’ written option to break upon notice at any time.
The current classification of the shop is A1 – general retail. Other potential uses will be considered subject to further discussion with Derby City Council and may require planning permission for a change of use.
For more information or to express interest, call Annabel Froggatt on 01332 643343 or via email annabel.froggatt@derby.gov.uk.
Are you seeking a fulfilling part-time opportunity that combines your customer service expertise with a passion for contributing to economic growth efforts?
Join us as a Connect Derby Customer Services Assistant and make a positive impact on our vibrant community!
Job title : Part-Time Connect Derby Customer Services Assistant – 2 Posts Job reference : 000009951 Application closing date : 22/02/2024 Location : Salary : *GBP*13,337 – *GBP*13,560 a year actual salary (*GBP*23,500 – *GBP*23,893 a year full time equivalent) Package : Job category/type : Customer Services
Job description :
Directorate: Place Hours: 21 hours a week, Monday to Friday 12:15pm to 16:30pm (Full days are 08:45am to 16:30pm) Contract Type: Temporary with a view to becoming permanent Location: Connect Derby Buildings, Derby, onsite
Elevate Customer Support and Drive Economic Growth
The Role
In this role, you will be the welcoming face of Connect Derby, dedicated to providing exceptional customer support. Your responsibilities will encompass:
Communication and Interaction:
1. Greeting and welcoming visitors, clients, and employees. 2. Answering incoming calls and managing telephone enquiries. 3. Responding to emails and relaying messages effectively. 4. Providing information and directions to visitors. 5. Managing and sorting post and taking deliveries
Administrative Support:
1. Performing data entry and maintaining records. 2. Managing filing, faxing, photocopying, and document preparation. 3. Handling incoming and outgoing mail and deliveries. 4. Managing room bookings and coordinating schedules. 5. Accurately delivering and recording rechargeable services
Customer Service:
1. Assisting customers, clients, and employees with enquiries. 2. Offering information, guidance, and support as needed. 3. Addressing minor issues and escalating larger concerns.
Building & Office Operations:
1. Maintain a tidy and organized reception area. 2. Order and manage office supplies. 3. Manage digital telephony systems and handle calls efficiently. 4. Perform mandatory health and safety building compliance checks. 5. Manage and liaise with contractors for building maintenance. 6. Report maintenance jobs on the portal for a secure and compliant environment.
Team Collaboration:
1. Supporting managers and team members with administrative tasks. 2. Collaborating with colleagues and departments. 3. Assisting in event planning and coordination. 4. Sharing updates, announcements, and information.
Record Keeping:
1. Maintaining accurate records, databases, digital and manual filing systems. 2. Keeping track of visitor sign-ins and badges. 3. Managing information and documents with confidentiality.
Problem Solving:
1. Addressing enquiries and concerns from visitors and clients. 2. Resolving minor issues independently. 3. Escalating larger problems to appropriate parties.
Professionalism and Adaptability:
1. Creating a positive and welcoming atmosphere. 2. Adapting to changing demands and priorities. 3. Providing excellent customer service with a friendly demeanour. 4. Handling sensitive information with discretion and professionalism.
Requirements
We’re seeking a candidate who combines experience with specific qualifications:
Qualifications and Requirements:
1. GCSE’s: Math’s and English 2. Relevant certifications in office administration, customer service, or related fields (beneficial).
Knowledge:
1. Familiarity with office equipment, including telephones, computers, printers, and photocopiers. 2. Basic knowledge of administrative and clerical procedures. 3. Understanding of customer service principles and practices.
Skills:
1. Excellent verbal and written communication skills. 2. Strong interpersonal skills for effective interaction with visitors, clients, and colleagues. 3. Organisational skills to manage administrative tasks and keep records orderly. 4. Multitasking ability to handle various responsibilities simultaneously. 5. Proficiency in computer applications such as word processing, email, and spreadsheets. 6. Attention to detail to ensure accuracy in data entry and record-keeping. 7. Problem-solving skills to address enquiries and minor issues. 8. Adaptability to handle changing priorities and unexpected situations. 9. Professionalism and strong customer service orientation. 10. Time management skills to prioritise tasks and meet deadlines.
Additional Skills and Attributes:
1. Customer-focused attitude and a welcoming demeanor. 2. Patience and empathy when dealing with diverse individuals and situations. 3. Ability to maintain confidentiality of sensitive information. 4. Willingness to learn and adapt to new systems and processes. 5. Ability to work well in a team and collaborate effectively. 6. Flexibility to work in shifts and accommodate varying schedules at short notice.
Experience:
1. Previous experience in a receptionist, administrative assistant, or customer service role is beneficial but not always required. 2. Familiarity with managing telephony systems, handling mail, and maintaining records can be advantageous.
Why Choose Us
1. Impactful Role: Play a pivotal role in creating a welcoming and supportive environment for our diverse business community. 2. Economic Growth Contribution: Contribute directly to the economic growth efforts of our community and city. 3. Professional Growth: Embrace opportunities to enhance your skills, collaborate with a dynamic team, and grow within a dynamic organisation. 4. Work-Life Balance: Enjoy the benefits of part-time hours (21 hours per week) and flexible Monday to Friday schedules. 5. Inspiring Location: Work within the Connect Derby Buildings, surrounded by creativity, innovation, and opportunity.
Ready to Empower Economic Growth? Apply Now
Join us in championing customer service excellence and being a catalyst for positive change. If you’re enthusiastic about contributing to a thriving community, connecting with diverse individuals, and playing a key role in regeneration efforts, we invite you to apply and become an integral part of our dedicated team.
Next Steps
The closing date for this vacancy is at midnight on 22 February 2024. Any applications received after the closing date will not be accepted.
Interviews will be held Thursday 29 February 2024
Important Information
Links to the full Job Description and Person Specification are below.
All employees will normally be appointed to the minimum of the grade for the job.
Before you complete your application form please read our guidance on filling in your application form.
Remember to align your personal statement to the essential criteria in the Person Specification.
Please be aware that where there are colleagues within the organisation who are ‘at risk’ of redundancy, requirements to redeploy to another suitable role will apply and take priority.
Equality, Diversity & Inclusion
We are a fair and inclusive employer and welcome applications from people from all backgrounds. We recruit for diversity and value difference. As many of our roles can now be home-based, we are able to offer more opportunities for people who need this facility.
We are proud to be a Disability Confident Leader. If you are a disabled person, you have the choice to apply under our Guaranteed Interview Scheme so long as you demonstrate that you meet the essential requirements for the job.
We feel it is essential that we recruit a talented workforce that is as diverse as the community we work for.
Please let us know of any individual requirements or reasonable adjustments you may have during the application, interview, or onboarding process and we’ll do all we can to help. We strongly believe in social understanding of disability and for us it’s all about removing barriers to equality.
Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, has been shortlisted for her work supporting the property industry at the East Midlands Leadership Awards 2024.
Ann, who joined Derby City Council in 2001 and has been managing the Connect Derby scheme since 2014, has been shortlisted for Property Leader of the Year.
The East Midlands Leadership Awards, which are organised by Business Desk, celebrate those leaders throughout the region that set a shining example for people within their organisations.
Winners of the awards have had a positive impact on both their employees and the wider community.
The Property Leader award honours those people who really make a difference and lead teams or organisations that make a real impact.
Over the past 12 months, Ann Bhatti and the Connect Derby team have supported Rolls-Royce, the University of Derby and Nuclear AMRC to bring the exciting new Nuclear Skills Academy to the iHub innovation centre on Infinity Park.
Connect Derby has worked closely with Rolls-Royce, the University of Derby and Nuclear AMRC to provide a home for the Nuclear Skills Academy, at the same time as working creatively to find alternative fit-for-purpose locations to rehouse the existing iHub businesses.
Ann also took over the management of the historic Derby Market Hall, putting in place procedures to support traders during a period of transition caused by the effects of the pandemic and the multimillion-pound transformation of the Market Hall.
The winners will be announced an awards ceremony taking place on 14 March 2024 at the Crowne Plaza in Nottingham.
Commenting on being shortlisted, Ann said:
“Being shortlisted for Property Leader of the Year is great honour. Our journey with Rolls-Royce, the University of Derby, and Nuclear AMRC to establish the Nuclear Skills Academy at iHub reflects our commitment to collaboration.
“Amidst challenges, we navigated relocations at the same time as ensuring the Market Hall transformation supported local traders through trying times.
“This recognition is truly a celebration of partnership in shaping these spaces for our Derby’s growth.”
Connect Derby has worked alongside fit-out specialists DSP (Interiors) Ltd to relocate three local businesses from the iHub innovation centre on Infinity Park to make way for the new Nuclear Skills Academy.
The team at DSP (Interiors) Ltd have carried out the design and fit-out of four new units for previous iHub tenants Composite Braiding Ltd, HPS Ltd and Addqual Ltd on Ivygrove Developments’ new Dunstall Park Road estate, off Ascot Drive in the city.
Connect Derby and Derby City Council were a key partner in delivering the Nuclear Skills Academy at the iHub. This included supporting existing iHub tenants Composite Braiding, HPS and Addqual to find alternative accommodation.
DSP’s role was to fit out four individual speculative units – two units for Composite Braiding, and one unit each for HPS and Addqual – at Dunstall Park Road. The speed in which both the designs and builds could be undertaken were crucial to the success of this Academy project, which is the first of its kind in the UK.
DSP’s vast experience in designing, managing, and installing turnkey projects of this nature was essential to meet the extremely tight timescales required. To achieve this the three projects were undertaken in tandem; taking into consideration the needs of each company to design a bespoke facility for each individual business.
Composite Braiding specialise in thermoplastic composite braiding technology and needed a facility to enable them to scale up their operations. Heating and plumbing specialists HPS Ltd required a workplace to accommodate both their office and site-based activities. Manufacturing services business Addqual needed a workspace to support their continued growth.
All the units, which were core base build units, required extensive fit outs to suit each client’s individual operations. Each unit required a mezzanine floor installing to provide additional space including all supporting fixtures and fittings such as fire rating, suspended ceilings, partitions, flooring, decoration, toilets, kitchens and more.
In addition, DSP undertook the design and installation of all the mechanical, electrical and plumbing services required including air-conditioning, ventilation, lighting, fire alarms, intruder alarms, power, data and so on.
Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, who managed the relocation project for Derby City Councill, said:
“We extend our heartfelt appreciation to Andy and his team for their exceptional work on the three fit-out projects. Their unwavering professionalism was evident throughout the entire process.
“They played a crucial role in addressing various challenges, demonstrating their expertise gained from their extensive experience in past construction and fit-out projects. Their guidance and solutions were invaluable.”
Andy Priestley, director of DSP (Interiors) Ltd, added:
“We were delighted to be selected by Derby City Council to carry out the design and fit outs for Composite Braiding, HPS and Addqual at Dunstall Park Road. Our dedicated team has worked closely with all three businesses to create spaces that align with their vision and provide a functional and visually appealing home for them and their staff.”
“The new premises at Dunstall Park Road will provide each business with the ideal foundation to drive their continued growth.”
Steve Barbour, managing director of Composite Braiding, said:
“Thanks go out to everyone at DSP Interiors for carrying out a first-rate job. Their expertise, attention to detail and understanding of our specific requirements has turned an empty shell into a building which will be able to accommodate our future growth.”
Peter Dashey, director of HPS, added:
“We are delighted with the facility that the empty shell has become and would recommend DSP to any business looking to developing their premises into a dynamic space, with thought to efficiency of space and layout.”
DSP Interiors is a multi-award-winning design and fit-out company that has been providing bespoke interior design and professional fit-out services for more than 35 years. The company works across the Midlands and beyond and has built up an enviable client list.
Connect Derby and Derby City Council have won the prestigious Delivering for Derby award at this year’s We’re Here For Derby Awards.
The awards ceremony, which was held earlier this month, celebrated the best of Derby’s services that benefit the local community.
We won the award for our partnership work to deliver the Rolls-Royce Nuclear Skills Academy at the iHub, where we helped to relocate existing iHub businesses to make way for 200 apprentices each year for 10 years, creating a dedicated pipeline of young talent for this fast-growing sector.
Based at the iHub in Derby, the Nuclear Skills Academy is a partnership between the University of Derby and Rolls-Royce and is supported by industry and education experts, including the Nuclear Advanced Manufacturing Research Centre, the National College for Nuclear and Derby City Council.
The Connect Derby team worked at pace to vacate 50% of the building, with 16 office-based businesses moved in just eight weeks to allow the University six weeks of refurbishment time before they accepted their first set of apprentices in September 2022.
Due to our team’s exceptionally hard work, the relocation of all iHub tenants was met by the April 2023 deadline and operational building handover was given to the University of Derby.
A huge congrats to both teams – Connect Derby’s Ann Bhatti, Syd Holland and Kirandeep Kaur and Derby City Council’s Joanna Rees and Mark Lowe.
Specialist Derby-based mortgage broker Create Finance have been awarded the title of Mortgage Broker of the Year at the Mortgage Strategy Awards 2023.
The company, which is based at Connect Derby’s Friar Gate Studios, scooped the coveted award at a ceremony which took place at the JW Marriot Grosvenor House Hotel in London.
Create Finance beat off competition from fellow mortgage brokers Coreco, Connect Mortgages, Mortgage 1st, The Mortgage Mum and The Mortgage Store to win the award, which is widely acknowledged as the pinnacle of success in the UK mortgage industry.
The company was founded in 2015 by experienced mortgage broker Gindy Mathoon, who set up the business at Connect Derby’s Riverside Chambers.
In 2018, Create Finance relocated to the managed workspace’s Shot Tower building before relocating to Friar Gate Studios in 2022.
The move came as a result of the company’s significant growth, with a 23 strong team of brokerage moving into the headquarters of the Connect Derby scheme.
Create Finance are a specialist mortgage brokerage which works with a range of customers who are struggling to find a mortgage – from the self-employed, contractors and professionals to people with adverse credit ratings and are first time buyers. They are often able to help clients to obtain a mortgage where other banks and brokers have failed.
The company has the most 5-star Google reviews of any Derbyshire mortgage broker and has been awarded a Feefo platinum award for their outstanding customer care.
Commenting on the award, Gindy Mathoon, senior mortgage broker at Create Finance, said:
“This accolade is testament to the hard work and dedication of our team. Create Finance will be celebrating its eighth birthday this year, so to be recognised as the best the industry has to offer is a real celebration of all we have worked for.
“The future looks very bright, and we look forward to expanding our already excellent staff and taking the whole team with us on this brilliant journey.’
Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, added:
“Massive congratulations to Gindy and his team for winning this fantastic national award.
“To be named Mortgage Broker of the Year is a tremendous accolade and is testament to all the company’s hard work over the past eight years as a Connect Derby tenant. We would like to wish them every success for the future.”
Judges at The Mortgage Strategy awards, added:
“Widely recognised as the ‘Oscars’ of the mortgage industry, the accolades are not awarded lightly. Several rounds of shortlisting take place before a selection of expert judges’ comb through each entry to decide on a winner.
“A culmination of all the hard work and effort made by the industry over the past twelve months, the rigorous judging process associated with the Awards ensures that winning one of the 28 categories really is a mark of excellence.”
Connect Derby has introduced a new flexible Pay As You Go office package for SMEs, sole traders and entrepreneurs who want a professional office space without committing to a full-time office rental.
The offices have been introduced in response to market demand post-Brexit and post-Covid and aim to support businesses who are facing increasing costs across their operation due to the cost-of-living crisis.
The flexible office day packages are ideal for businesses who may have downsized and want a professional office space for up to four people for one weekday from 9.00am – 5.00pm. The new day package will initially be introduced at our Friar Gate Studios headquarters and is set to be rolled out to other workspaces in the coming months. Offices will be fully furnished offices with desks and chairs and will also include complimentary coffee and tea.
Businesses who take a day package will receive the same benefits as a full-time Connect Derby tenant and will have access to a range of services and facilities, including complimentary wi-fi, on-site showers, bike storage, reception services, on-site café and the use of seminar and meeting rooms (charges apply). Business rates, maintenance and BID levy is also included in the price.
Connect Derby remains the city’s leading managed workspace provider and continues to innovate as it helps businesses face the new challenges presented by the evolving nature of the world of work.
As well as pay as you go offices, we also offer fully furnished offices at our six workspaces across the city, which are available to rent on a one or three year lease term. Hybrid offices were recently introduced and allow businesses to occupy a hybrid office for up to three days a week, with another business occupying the space on the remaining days.
Commenting on the launch of Pay As You Go offices, Ann Bhatti, head of Connect Derby, said:
“We’re excited to be introducing Pay As You Go offices to our flagship Friar Gate Studios headquarters. Since the pandemic, we’ve introduced a number of new, flexible ways of working to support businesses who are adjusting to the new world of work.
“Businesses have shifted their ways of working, with many of them preferring to work from home or other remote locations. Our new Pay As You Go offices are ideal for businesses looking for an office base one day a week at an affordable price.”
Day package costs £50 + VAT. Anyone booking 10 days in a Pay As You Go office will receive an additional full day of office use free of charge.
For further information about Pay As You Go offices, visit www.connectderby.co.uk/ and complete the enquiry form, call Sonia Kang on 258300 or email lettings@connectderby.co.uk.
