Dorset student wins civil engineering placement award

A Dorset student has received a prestigious award from the Civil Engineering Contractors Association (CECA) for his outstanding performance during a placement year as part of his civil engineering degree.

Michael O’Hagan, from Bridport, was named the top Bath University student at the CECA South West Young Achiever Awards for his achievements while working with Suttle Projects in Poole.

He was one of five young people recognised for exceptional performance and dedication at a Covid-secure ceremony in Torquay.

During his placement year, Michael worked on a number of projects, including the Long Curtain Moat project in Portsmouth, which involved the replacement and renewal of masonry to a Napoleonic moat.

He also worked on the Langport embankment project involving around 800 linear metres of sheet piling and earthworks – the largest project in the company’s history.

Joe Paine, Managing Director, Suttle Projects, said Michael had grown in confidence and quickly developed new skills over his placement year.

He added: “From what we have seen during his time with us, there is every indication that Michael will be very successful in his chosen career.”

Paul Santer, CECA South West Regional Director, pictured left, said the success of Michael and the other winners highlighted the current opportunities available for young people in civil engineering.

He said: “Michael has made an exceptional start to his university studies and has now successfully applied his talents in the field.

“Civil engineering needs more young people like Michael who can bring their enthusiasm and talent to our industry.

“There are lots of opportunities for young men and women across many different areas of the economy – from coastal engineering and marine projects to transportation and renewable energy.

“Indeed, many of our previous winners are now working on some of the most important infrastructure projects in the UK.”

The CECA South West Young Achiever Awards are presented annually in recognition of exceptional performance, with each winner receiving a trophy and cheque for £500.

+++

Inspire-ing appointments as Charlotte and Andy join the team

Inspire, the South Coast business and tax advisory firm, has announced two new appointments.

Charlotte Elliott joins as Client Services Supervisor and Andy Mallett-Knight as Tax Adviser.

Both will be based at Inspire’s Head Office in Commercial Road, Poole.

They join a growing team of business and tax advisers at the firm which was first launched in 2004.

Charlotte, pictured left, has recently relocated to Poole from Devon.

She became ACCA (Association of Chartered Certified Accountants) qualified two years ago and has worked in other accountancy firms, as well as in industry.

Her role at Inspire as Client Services Supervisor will see her help to manage the team and support the development and mentoring of colleagues.

Charlotte will also deliver compliance and advisory projects work for the firm’s entrepreneurial clients.

Andy, pictured right, has been working in accountancy firms locally for seven years, supporting small businesses.

He qualified as a Chartered Accountant earlier this year and specialises in taxation.

Andy will work within Inspire’s highly-regarded tax team, supporting corporate and personal tax clients and will soon begin his specialist Chartered Tax Adviser (CTA) qualification.

Warren Munson, Founder of Inspire, said: “We’re thrilled to have Charlotte and Andy on board with us at Inspire.

“They both have a real enthusiasm and passion for their work and are a welcome addition to our team.

“Bolstering our team with new talent, both in client services and specialist tax advice, demonstrates our focus on continuing to enhance the offering at Inspire and the high levels of service that we deliver for our clients.”

• If you are an ambitious professional and are interested in joining the multi award-winning team, please get in touch by calling or email recruitment@inspire.uk.net

+++

Begbies Traynor expands South West office covering Dorset

Independent rescue, recovery and advisory firm Begbies Traynor has expanded its South West operation.

Ian Walker, Senior Partner at the Exeter branch covering Dorset and supporting the county’s business community, has welcomed three new members of staff to his team.

Scott Kippax has joined as Director and Amelia Amoretti as Insolvency Administrator.

In addition, Cameron Smith was appointed Trainee Administrator in August.

Ian Walker, Senior Partner, second left, with (left to right) Cameron Smith, Amelia Amoretti and Scott Kippax. Picture: Rob Coombe Photography.

Scott will be the second licensed insolvency practitioner in the Exeter office.

He brings over 20 years’ experience in the corporate recovery and insolvency industry.

Scott said: “This has to be the most challenging, uncertain, economic period for businesses in my lifetime, with all sectors experiencing the impact of the coronavirus pandemic and what is now a second period of lockdown.

“Businesses and professional advisors should know we are here to offer our skills and experience during this crisis and beyond.

“From the outset, every effort is made to save the underlying business and safeguard jobs, with terminal insolvency procedures only being considered as a last resort.”

Ian Walker added: “Many businesses are going to be struggling in the coming months with HMRC looking to become a preferential creditor again in a few weeks’ time and with the furlough scheme for employees eventually coming to an end.

“Further pressures will come as landlords start to insist on payment of rent and when Covid-19 loans start being repaid.

“In addition, businesses have to try various means of recovering lost turnover and, in many cases, getting used to new ways of working.”

+++

‘Perfect fit’ as keen cyclist Lee joins Aspire Insurance Services

Lee Swindle has joined the team at Aspire Insurance Services, part of the A-One Insurance Group, as Commercial Account Executive.

He will be involved in the business development and growth, focusing on the needs of new customers.

Lee will be able to support all clients with insurance covering cyber, directors & officers, fleet, office, professional indemnity, shop, surgery and tradesmen.

Tristan Webb, Managing Director, said “Lee has over ten years insurance experience and will be assisting me with the growth of the business, focusing on new commercial clients.

“He’s the perfect fit for our super powered team as he’s no stranger to the gym and is a keen cyclist!”