1194 Courses in Cardiff delivered Live Online

he role of a CFO extends beyond day-to-day financial management and plays a pivotal role in preparing a business for an exit. The role of a CFO extends beyond day-to-day financial management and plays a pivotal role in preparing a business for an exit, whether it be through a merger, acquisition, or other strategic transaction. Here are some key points to consider: Financial Due Diligence: CFOs play a crucial role in conducting financial due diligence to assess the company’s financial health and identify any potential risks or issues. This involves reviewing financial statements, accounting practices, contracts, and other financial data to ensure accuracy and transparency. Valuation and Financial Modeling: CFOs work closely with the executive team, external advisors, and investment bankers to determine the company’s valuation. They develop financial models, assess growth projections, and analyze market comparables to arrive at a fair and realistic valuation range. Financial Documentation and Reporting: CFOs ensure that financial documentation and reporting are in order, accurate, and compliant with regulatory requirements. This includes preparing financial statements, management reports, and other financial disclosures necessary for the exit process. Negotiation and Deal Structuring: CFOs collaborate with legal and executive teams to negotiate the terms of the exit transaction. They provide financial insights and expertise to structure the deal in a way that maximizes value for the company and its stakeholders. Tax Planning and Optimisation: CFOs work closely with tax advisors to develop tax-efficient strategies for the exit transaction. They assess potential tax implications, explore tax-saving opportunities, and ensure compliance with applicable tax laws and regulations. Financial Communication and Investor Relations: CFOs play a critical role in communicating the financial aspects of the exit to internal and external stakeholders. They work with investor relations teams to ensure that key messages are effectively conveyed, providing transparency and clarity throughout the exit process. https://www.fdcapital.co.uk/podcast/the-vital-role-of-cfos-in-business-exit-preparation/ Tags Online Events Things To Do Online Online Seminars Online Business Seminars #business #cfo #preparation #exit #vital

This is an essential programme for members of staff whose role exposes them to aggressive or violent behaviour. 1 What's happening? Issues around us Risks in context Personal experiences 2 Safety fundamentals Following internal policy and procedure Personal safety and lone working Use of technology 3 Nipping issues in the bud Recognising early warning signs Avoiding causing problems for ourselves 4 Calming - Reaching - Controlling Tips and techniques for potentially calming a situation Reaching and building rapport Accelerants - tips on avoiding accelerating a situation Assertiveness techniques Non-verbal behaviour Active listening and the use of questions and distractions Exploring ways forward and identifying win/wins Avoiding the secondary argument Fogging The 'drama triangle' If all else fails 5 Harassment, stalking and on-line bulling What constitutes harassment and definition of stalking On-line bullying Steps to take 6 Reporting principles Importance of incidence reporting Taking care of us What next?

This is an essential programme for members of staff whose role exposes them to aggressive or violent behaviour. 1 What's happening? Issues around us Risks in context Personal experiences 2 Safety fundamentals Following internal policy and procedure Personal safety and lone working Use of technology 3 Nipping issues in the bud Recognising early warning signs Avoiding causing problems for ourselves 4 Calming - Reaching - Controlling Tips and techniques for potentially calming a situation Reaching and building rapport Accelerants - tips on avoiding accelerating a situation Assertiveness techniques Non-verbal behaviour Active listening and the use of questions and distractions Exploring ways forward and identifying win/wins Avoiding the secondary argument Fogging The 'drama triangle' If all else fails... 5 Harassment, stalking and on-line bulling What constitutes harassment and definition of stalking On-line bullying Steps to take 6 Reporting principles Importance of incidence reporting Taking care of us What next?

Developing a network of MHFA Champions is a key step in creating a mentally healthy workplace. The MHFA Champion one-day course will give you all the skills you need to be an MHFA Champion. This one-day course trains you as an MHFA Champion, giving you: An understanding of common mental health issues Knowledge and confidence to advocate for mental health awareness Ability to spot signs of mental ill-health Skills to support positive wellbeing 1 Introduction to MHFA and understanding mental health (3 hours 30 mins) About Mental Health First Aid About mental health and stress in the workplace Stigma and discrimination Depression Anxiety disorders Other mental health issues (eating disorders, self-harm, psychosis) Early warning signs of mental ill-health Alcohol, drugs and mental health 2 MHFA Champion in practice (3 hours 30 mins) Applying the Mental Health First Aid action plan Action 1: Approach the person, assess and assist with any crisis Suicide Action 2: Listen and communicate non-judgementally Action 3: Give support and information Action 4: Encourage the person to get appropriate professional help Action 5: Encourage other supports Recovery Building a mentally healthy workplace Action planning for using MHFA

Getting Started The MBA in Educational Leadership and Management Top Up programme is a dynamic educational offering that aims to equip future educational leaders with essential skills. This programme places a strong emphasis on effective leadership, educational policy, and management within a variety of educational settings. Graduates from this programme emerge well-prepared to take on leadership roles within academic institutions and drive positive changes in the field of education. The MBA in Educational Leadership and Management is designed to empower educators and education professionals with advanced knowledge and skills in leadership and management. This programme presents an excellent opportunity for individuals with a relevant postgraduate diploma or an equivalent qualification to "top up" their credentials to earn a full MBA degree. Throughout this programme, students engage deeply with the intricacies of educational leadership and management, gaining valuable insights into the latest theories, practices, and strategies relevant to the educational sector. The curriculum strongly focuses on critical areas such as leadership theory, organisational management, policy development, and educational change management. The programme provides students with the tools needed to address the complex challenges that educational organisations face today, ultimately enhancing the quality of education. This MBA in Educational Leadership and Management enhances career prospects and actively contributes to improving educational systems. The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Educational Management and Leadership, awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The second phase is the MBA in Educational Leadership and Management Top Up, awarded and delivered 100% online by Anglia Ruskin University. At Anglia Ruskin University, you will study through Canvas, a world-class online Learning Management System (LMS), accessed from your phone, pc or tablet at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments. After successfully completing your studies, you'll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus at Anglia Ruskin University. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible, we'll arrange to send your certificate to you. School of Business and Technology London partners with Chestnut Education Group to promote this programme. About Awarding Body Anglia Ruskin University began in 1858 as the Cambridge School of Art founded by William Beaumont. It was then merged with the Cambridge shire College of Arts and Technology and the Essex Institute of Higher Education and was renamed Anglia Polytechnic. It was then given university status in 1992 and renamed Anglia Ruskin University in 2005. The university has campuses in the UK (Cambridge, Chelmsford, London and Peterborough), as well as they are partnered with institutions around the world including Berlin, Budapest, Trinidad, Singapore and Kuala Lumpur. Assessment Assignments and Project No examinations Entry Requirements A bachelor's degree Applicant without a bachelor's degree but holding significant relevant experience will be considered for entry on a case-by-case basis. A good command of English (IELTS 6.0 or equivalent). Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable. Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete. Structure Phase -1 - Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Educational Management and Leadership The QUALIFI Level 7 Diploma in Educational Management and Leadership is made up of 120 credits, which equates to hours 1200 of TQT. Learners must complete two mandatory units and choose four optional units to achieve a minimum of 120 credits. Mandatory Units Leadership Qualities and Practice in Education Unit Reference -T/618/3135 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 The unit will explore how team performance can be evaluated and optimised to realise strategic business and operational objectives. Contemporary Issues in Education: Theory, Policy and Practice Unit Reference - A/618/3136 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit provides learners with an understanding of the link between educational research, policy and practice.   Optional Units Managing Change in an Educational Context Unit Reference - F/618/3137 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to develop learners' understanding of educational leadership and management in supporting change and developing leadership in their educational context. Pedagogy and Practice in Education Unit Reference - J/618/3138 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to develop learners' theoretical and practical grounding in approaches to teaching and learning related to subject academic knowledge and educational practices. Leading Reflective Practice in Education Unit Reference - L/618/3139 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to develop learners' understanding of reflective practice to apply this to their and other's roles in an educational context, leading to planning for personal development. Research Methods in Education Unit Reference - F/618/3140 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to develop research skills, including different approaches, proposal formulation, planning, data analysis, and exploring research's relationship with evidence-based practice. Postgraduate Study of Childhood, Education and Family Support Unit Reference - A/650/6687 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 The unit will offer a framework for each individual's evaluation of their academic and professional action plans for personal and professional learning. Research Methods for Childhood, Education and Family Support Unit Reference - D/650/6688 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to help learners identify and develop a focus on research and approaches to data analysis, such as phenomenological and hermeneutic approaches and descriptive statistics. Triangulating Theory and Practice Unit Reference - F/650/6689 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to assist educators in comprehending the theories that drive recommendations for best practices and calls for action in a challenging and quickly evolving professional context. Contemporary Issues in Education Unit Reference - K/650/6690 TQT : 200 Credit : 20  This unit aims to introduce learners to various emerging topics from many educational sectors.    Phase 2 - MBA in Educational Leadership and Management Top-Up Programme Structure Developing Effective Management Systems Dissertation (Major Project) Delivery Methods The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Qualifi Level 7 Diploma in Educational Management and Leadership, awarded by Qualifi and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The School of Business and Technology London offers flexible learning methods, including online and blended learning, allowing students to choose the mode of study that suits their preferences and schedules. The program is self-paced and facilitated through an advanced Learning Management System. Students can easily interact with tutors through the SBTL Support Desk Portal System for course material discussions, guidance, assistance, and assessment feedback on assignments. School of Business and Technology London provides exceptional support and infrastructure for online and blended learning. Students benefit from dedicated tutors who guide and support them throughout their learning journey, ensuring a high level of assistance. The second phase is the MBA in Educational Leadership and Management Top Up, awarded and delivered 100% online by Anglia Ruskin University. At Anglia Ruskin University, you will study through Canvas, a world-class online Learning Management System (LMS), accessed from your phone, pc or tablet at home or on the move. Canvas provides instant access to study materials, forums, and support from tutors and classmates, as well as enabling easy submission of your assignments. After successfully completing your studies, you'll be invited to attend a graduation ceremony on campus at Anglia Ruskin University. If attending the ceremony in person is not possible, we'll arrange to send your certificate to you. School of Business and Technology London partners with Chestnut Education Group to promote this programme. Resources and Support School of Business & Technology London is dedicated to offering excellent support on every step of your learning journey. School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal. Our support team liaises with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receives a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and streamline all the support processes efficiently. Quality learning materials made by industry experts is a significant competitive edge of the School of Business & Technology London. Quality learning materials comprised of structured lecture notes, study guides, practical applications which includes real-world examples, and case studies that will enable you to apply your knowledge. Learning materials are provided in one of the three formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, or Interactive Text Content on the learning portal. How does the Online Learning work at SBTL? We at SBTL follow a unique approach which differentiates us from other institutions. Indeed, we have taken distance education to a new phase where the support level is incredibly high.Now a days, convenience, flexibility and user-friendliness outweigh demands. Today, the transition from traditional classroom-based learning to online platforms is a significant result of these specifications. In this context, a crucial role played by online learning by leveraging the opportunities for convenience and easier access. It benefits the people who want to enhance their career, life and education in parallel streams. SBTL's simplified online learning facilitates an individual to progress towards the accomplishment of higher career growth without stress and dilemmas. How will you study online? With the School of Business & Technology London, you can study wherever you are. You finish your program with the utmost flexibility. You will be provided with comprehensive tutor support online through SBTL Support Desk portal. How will I get tutor support online? School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal, through which our support team liaise with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receive a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and to streamline all the support process efficiently. Learners should expect to receive a response on queries like guidance and assistance within 1 - 2 working days. However, if the support request is for assessment feedback, learners will receive the reply with feedback as per the time frame outlined in the Assessment Feedback Policy.

This course follows the Institute of Occupational Safety and Health's syllabus. A one-day programme, it is suitable for all people at all levels in the workplace and gives a basic introduction to the principles of environmental management. On successful completion of the course, participants will be able to: Understand the terms 'environment' and 'pollution' Understand the terms 'hazard' and 'risk' related to the environment Better appreciate environmental issues generally, and specifically in respect of their organisation Identify hazards to the environment from working practices Outline the procedures/controls necessary to prevent damage to the environment 1 What is the environment? - putting the environment in context Key environmental issues and how we contribute Definition of the environment 2 Working with the environment What is pollution? Sources, receptors and pathways Environmental consequences workshop - identifying the environmental consequences of our working practices Environmental risk assessment Effective control mechanisms 3 Protecting the environment - Environmental Management Systems What is an Environmental Management System (EMS)? What are the benefits of having an EMS? EMS structure and models Identifying what elements of EMS your company has and how they work Roles and responsibilities 4 Choice of module Option 1: Organisation-specific moduleThis module can be used to introduce environmental concepts that are specific to your activities and operations, and will be compiled through discussion with your organisation Option 2: Environmental best practiceIf no organisation-specific module is required, or if participants from a number of organisations attend, generic operational environmental best practices can be covered instead. Areas covered include waste management, fuel storage and use, hazardous materials, emissions to air and water and environmental incidents

Getting Started The programme's primary objective is to deliver practical and realistic solutions to business-related strategic challenges backed by appropriate references to theoretical and conceptual analysis. Globalisation means that effective and fair management of people is more vital than ever. In a turbulent, rapidly changing business environment, the demand for HR professionals who can strategically manage and develop staff potential - whilst overcoming issues such as redundancy, flexible working and the recent challenges of furloughed staff and social distancing - has never been more fundamental to business success. The programme meets the career enhancement needs of human resource (HR) managers, advisers, and administrators. The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Level 7 Diploma in Human Resource Management, awarded by OTHM and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The second phase is the MA in Human Resource Management (Advanced Entry), delivered by the London Graduate School and awarded by the University of Buckingham. School of Business and Technology London partners with LGS to promote this programme. Upon completing the programme, students are awarded an MA in Human Resource Management from the University of Buckingham. Additionally, students can attend the graduation ceremony held in the UK, celebrating their achievements. About Awarding Body Buckingham is unique. It is the only independent University in the UK with a Royal Charter and probably the smallest, with around 2,700 students (approx 1,600 on campus). The University campus is well known for being one of the most attractive locations in the region. The Great Ouse River, home to much wildlife, winds through the heart of campus. Each student mixes with over 100 other different nationalities, so being at Buckingham is just like being in a mini global village. These contacts, acquaintances and friendships carry on long after life at Buckingham is over. Ranked Top 10 for Student Satisfaction Ranked Top 10 for Graduate Prospect Recognised by World Education Services (WES) OTHM Qualifications are approved and regulated by Ofqual (Office of Qualifications and Examinations Regulation) and recognised by Qualifications Wales. OTHM qualifications have achieved a reputation for maintaining significant skills in various job roles and industries like Business Studies, Leadership, Tourism and Hospitality Management, Health and Social Care, Information Technology, Accounting and Finance, Logistics and Supply Chain Management. OTHM serves the progression option with several UK universities that acknowledges the ability of learners after studying Level 3-7 qualifications to be considered for advanced entry into corresponding degree year/top-up and Master's/top-up programmes. Regulated by ofqual.gov.uk Recognised by World Education Services (WES) Assessment Assignments and Project No Examinations Entry Requirements A Bachelor's degree or an equivalent higher qualification. A copy of a valid photo ID for identification purposes. A well-written Statement of Purpose should outline the student's motivations, career goals, and reasons for pursuing the MA in Human Resource Management. An updated Curriculum Vitae (CV) that highlights at least two years of work experience at the graduate level in either a managerial or professional capacity. By submitting these necessary documents, applicants can take the initial step towards joining the MA in Human Resource Management programme and furthering their expertise in the field of HR. English Requirements A pass in English at the A level. Completion of a Bachelor's degree programme taught and assessed in English. An overall score of 6.5 or higher in the International English Language Testing System (IELTS), with a minimum score of 6.0 in each component. A Test of English as a Foreign Language (TOEFL) score of 72 or higher, with a minimum of 18 in reading, 17 in listening, 20 in speaking, and 17 in writing. In addition to the above requirements, all applicants will be required to participate in a live virtual interview with a staff member from the London Graduate School. Learners must request before enrolment to interchange unit(s) other than the preselected units shown in the SBTL website because we need to make sure the availability of learning materials for the requested unit(s). SBTL will reject an application if the learning materials for the requested interchange unit(s) are unavailable. Learners are not allowed to make any request to interchange unit(s) once enrolment is complete. Structure Phase 1 : OTHM Level 7 Diploma in Human Resource Management Programme structure Strategic Human Resource Management Unit Reference No : J/618/1339 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to enhance learners' comprehension of how proficient strategic management of human resources contributes to attaining organizational goals across diverse environments. Learners will grasp the process of evaluating both external and internal factors impacting an organization and how these contextual elements inform the development of an effective HR strategy. The unit also delves into how strategic human resource management contributes to gaining competitive advantage and fostering organizational expansion. Engagement of Employees and Organisational Learning Unit Reference No : A/618/1340 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit seeks to cultivate learners' comprehension of current issues in employee engagement, organizational learning, and people management and development. Learners will scrutinize and assess the aims and goals of human resource management. They will engage in the design and execution of HR action plans aimed at enhancing employee engagement and organizational performance. Leadership Development and Performance Management Unit Reference No : F/618/1341 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit endeavours to foster strategic leadership and management competencies in learners. It encompasses understanding the pivotal role of leadership and management in augmenting teamwork, proficient communication, and organizational performance. The content aligns with the requisites of roles and competencies pertinent to a strategic level. Global Resourcing, Talent and Reward Management Unit Reference No : F/618/1341 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit seeks to cultivate learners' comprehension of the principles and applications of resourcing, global talent management, and performance and reward management within corporate settings. It entails theoretical and practical insights into recruitment, selection, employee retention, dismissal, and other facets of global talent management. Additionally, learners will explore various strategies for effective reward and performance management within a global context. Managing Employment Relations and Employment Law Unit Reference No : F/618/1341 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit aims to foster a solid understanding of the fundamental principles that govern the management of employment relations. Learners will delve into the realms of employee relations and employment law, with a special emphasis on legislation surrounding recruitment and selection, as well as the protective measures afforded to various types of organizations. Business Research Methods Unit Reference No : T/508/0626 TQT : 200 Credit : 20 This unit seeks to cultivate learners' comprehension of research principles, encompassing the crafting of research proposals, conducting literature reviews, proper referencing, employing data collection techniques like interviews and surveys, designing effective questionnaires, utilizing statistical analysis tools like SPSS, handling qualitative data, and using methodologies for drawing well-founded conclusions from the analyzed data.   Phase 2 - MA in Human Resource Management (Advanced Entry) Programme structure Research Methods Consultancy Project Report Delivery Methods The programme comprises two phases; the first is the Level 7 Diploma in Human Resource Management, awarded by OTHM and delivered by the School of Business and Technology London. The School of Business and Technology London offers flexible learning methods, including online and blended learning, allowing students to choose the mode of study that suits their preferences and schedules. The programme is self-paced and facilitated through an advanced Learning Management System. Students can easily interact with tutors through the SBTL Support Desk Portal System for course material discussions, guidance, assistance, and assessment feedback on assignments. School of Business and Technology London provides exceptional support and infrastructure for online and blended learning. Students benefit from dedicated tutors who guide and support them throughout their learning journey, ensuring a high level of assistance. The second phase is the MA in Human Resource Management (Advanced Entry), delivered by the London Graduate School and awarded by the University of Buckingham through distance learning. You will receive excellent support from academic team of London Graduate School, including your programme manager and your supervisor who will be with you every step of the way. Resources and Support School of Business & Technology London is dedicated to offering excellent support on every step of your learning journey. School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal. Our support team liaises with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receives a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and streamline all the support processes efficiently. Quality learning materials made by industry experts is a significant competitive edge of the School of Business & Technology London. Quality learning materials comprised of structured lecture notes, study guides, practical applications which includes real-world examples, and case studies that will enable you to apply your knowledge. Learning materials are provided in one of the three formats, such as PDF, PowerPoint, or Interactive Text Content on the learning portal. How does the Online Learning work at SBTL? We at SBTL follow a unique approach which differentiates us from other institutions. Indeed, we have taken distance education to a new phase where the support level is incredibly high.Now a days, convenience, flexibility and user-friendliness outweigh demands. Today, the transition from traditional classroom-based learning to online platforms is a significant result of these specifications. In this context, a crucial role played by online learning by leveraging the opportunities for convenience and easier access. It benefits the people who want to enhance their career, life and education in parallel streams. SBTL's simplified online learning facilitates an individual to progress towards the accomplishment of higher career growth without stress and dilemmas. How will you study online? With the School of Business & Technology London, you can study wherever you are. You finish your program with the utmost flexibility. You will be provided with comprehensive tutor support online through SBTL Support Desk portal. How will I get tutor support online? School of Business & Technology London occupies a centralised tutor support desk portal, through which our support team liaise with both tutors and learners to provide guidance, assessment feedback, and any other study support adequately and promptly. Once a learner raises a support request through the support desk portal (Be it for guidance, assessment feedback or any additional assistance), one of the support team members assign the relevant to request to an allocated tutor. As soon as the support receive a response from the allocated tutor, it will be made available to the learner in the portal. The support desk system is in place to assist the learners adequately and to streamline all the support process efficiently. Learners should expect to receive a response on queries like guidance and assistance within 1 - 2 working days. However, if the support request is for assessment feedback, learners will receive the reply with feedback as per the time frame outlined in the Assessment Feedback Policy.

Trade barriers are going up across the globe. And cybercrime is on the increase. The link between the two? The value of trade secrets. As countries become increasingly protectionist as regards international trade, so their IP law has been changing, with the result that companies that previously would have sought protection through patents are opting to go down the trade secret route instead. But is this a high-risk strategy? Technology is changing and this is having an impact on forms of commercial co-operation. Collaborative or open forms of innovation by their very nature involve the sharing of intellectual property (IP), and in many instances this IP is in the form of valuable confidential business information (ie, trade secrets). Little surprise, then, that trade secrets disputes have increased accordingly. At the same time, the changes in technology make trade secrets more vulnerable to attack, misappropriation, theft. So just how effective are the legal protections for trade secrets? How can organisations safeguard the value in their IP (increasingly, the single biggest line in their balance sheets)? This programme is designed to help you address these issues. Note: this is an indicative agenda, to be used as a starting point for a conversation between client and consultant, depending on the organisation's specific situation and requirements. This session is designed to give you a deeper understanding of: Emerging trends in trade secrets protection and exploitation The current situation in key jurisdictions Recent case law How leading companies are responding The importance of trade secret metadata Different external stakeholders and their interests Key steps for effective protection of trade secrets Note: this is an indicative agenda, to be used as a starting point for a conversation between client and consultant, depending on the organisation's specific situation and requirements. 1 What are trade secrets? Definitions Examples Comparison with other forms of IP (patents, confidential information, know-how, copyright) 2 Current trends The various changes taking place affecting trade secrets - legal changes, trade wars, cybercrime, technology, commercial practice The current position in the UK, Europe, USA, China, Japan, Russia Corporate best practice 3 Trade secret disputes - how to avoid them Trade secret policies, processes and systems Administrative, legal and technical protection mechanisms The role of employees The sharing of trade secrets with others 4 Trade secret disputes - how to manage them Causes Anatomy of a trade secret court case 'Reasonable particularity' 5 Related issues Insurance Tax authorities and investigations Investor relations 6 Trade secret asset management roadmap Maturity ladder First steps Pilot projects

No-one in business will succeed if they are not financially literate - and no business will succeed without financially-literate people. This is the ideal programme for managers and others who don't have a financial qualification or background but who nonetheless need a greater understanding of the financial management disciplines essential to your organisation. This course will give the participants a sound understanding of financial reports, measures and techniques to make them even more effective in their roles. It will enable participants to: Overcome the barrier of the accountants' strange language Deal confidently with financial colleagues Improve their understanding of your organisation's finance function Radically improve their planning and budgeting skills Be much more aware of the impact of their decisions on the profitability of your organisation Enhance their role in the organisation Boost their confidence and career development 1 Review of the principal financial statements What each statement containsOutlineDetail Not just what the statements contain but what they mean Balance sheets and P&L accounts (income statements) Cash flow statements Detailed terminology and interpretation Types of fixed asset - tangible, etc. Working capital, equity, gearing 2 The 'rules' - Accounting Standards, concepts and conventions Fundamental or 'bedrock' accounting concepts Detailed accounting concepts and conventions What depreciation means The importance of stock, inventory and work in progress values Accounting policies that most affect reporting and results The importance of accounting standards and IFRS 3 Where the figures come from Accounting records Assets / liabilities, Income / expenditure General / nominal ledgers Need for internal controls 'Sarbox' and related issues 4 Managing the budget process Have clear objectives, remit, responsibilities and time schedule The business plan Links with corporate strategy The budget cycle Links with company culture Budgeting methods'New' budgetingZero-based budgets Reviewing budgets Responding to the figures The need for appropriate accounting and reporting systems 5 What are costs? How to account for them Cost definitions Full / absorption costing Overheads - overhead allocation or absorption Activity based costing Marginal costing / break-even - use in planning 6 Who does what? A review of what different types of accountant do Financial accounting Management accounting Treasury function Activities and terms 7 How the statements can be interpreted What published accounts contain Analytical review (ratio analysis) Return on capital employed, margins and profitability Making assets work - asset turnover Fixed assets, debtor, stock turnover Responding to figures EBIT, EBITEDIA, eps and other analysts' measure 8 Other key issues Creative accounting Accounting for groups Intangible assets - brand names Company valuations Fixed assets / leased assets / off-balance sheet finance

When managers have too many decisions to make, it can have a serious impact on the speed and efficiency of the organisation. When those decisions are commercial ones, the results can wreak havoc with the bottom line. Often the problem arises when those below them or in operational areas of the organisation aren't equipped or allowed to make a decision for themselves. Issues get passed back up and that wastes time. This programme provides a solution, giving your entire team the skills to: And most importantly, they'll be able to do this in line with the broader aims and commercial objectives of the business. By the end of the programme participants will be able to: Fully appreciate the importance of effective decision-making in business Use the five-step 'Stop, Think, Act!' decision-making process Stop leaping to conclusions Really understand the situations and decisions they are dealing with Identify good options Evaluate those options Make decisions and then put them into action Apply these tools and techniques to all their decisions in future 1 Understanding the business we work in What are the critical factors in our business? What is the SWOT analysis for our business? 2 Understanding what decision-making is 3 Background Culture of 'having to be doing' To change things we have to think about it! We are paid to make decisions! 4 Recognise the opportunity to make a decision 5 The 'Stop, Think, Act!' technique 6 STOP! Recognise the opportunity to make a decision Don't leap to conclusions Get ready to think Initial questions:Is this my decision? (Do I have the authority?)Who is this going to affect? (Do they need to be included?)When do I need to make the decision? (What's the timeline?) 7 THINK! The 3 Cs - making sure we understand the decisions we have to make What is the context of this decision?What is the overall situation?Why is this decision important?What do we need to achieve?What will success look like? Do I have clarity about the decision I need to make?Can I write it down?Can I express it clearly in two sentences? What are the criteria?What are the critical commercial factors that we will use to select our options?What will we use to measure the business success? 8 ACT! Identifying options What data do I need to collect?Issues with today's overloadIdentifying what will help you Select optionsHow many options?Must match your criteriaMust achieve success'Decision compass' exercise Analyse optionsTabular methodRisk analysis (likelihood v effect)Head, heart and gut (is there any organisational history/bias that we are up against?) Making your decision Taking it to actionFirst actionsPlanning how to make it happen