Learning the letter of the law for business growth

A firm of solicitors is introducing strategic business improvement initiatives as a result of the Lancashire Forum programme.

Lancaster-based Oglethorpe, Sturton & Gillibrand is developing a more targeted approach to decision-making and has updated job descriptions for its 45-strong workforce to ensure staff are performing roles that maximise their productivity.

The firm, which provides legal services for businesses and individuals, as well as the agriculture sector, is also looking to develop its CRM (customer relationship management) system, along with a digital marketing strategy.

In addition, partners are exploring ways of reorganising the management team to allocate resources more effectively.

Partner Kate Mallaband wanted to take part in the Lancashire Forum programme to develop ideas for the growth and sustainability of the business.

The programme is delivered by Lancaster University Management School as part of the Boost Business Lancashire service.

Kate commented: “The main thing I took from the programme was that business growth must be a constant goal and getting the right people in the right roles is essential. This can be uncomfortable at first for some people, but hugely beneficial in the long term.

"One of the main benefits was the diversity of the delegates, which created opportunities to bounce ideas off each other and discuss common problems. The quality of the inspirational and motivational speakers at the masterclasses was excellent."

The Lancashire Forum programme enables senior SME managers to develop their skills and knowledge by sharing experiences in an environment of trust and mutual support. A number of masterclasses featuring inspirational speakers complemented networking sessions.

Kate added: "The programme is a diverse and knowledge-filled forum for the development of business strategy ideas based on a network of talented and like-minded people. I will certainly encourage other partners at the firm to engage in similar projects at Lancaster University."

Boost Business Lancashire is the £7.2m Lancashire Business Growth Hub, offering free and part-funded business support to ambitious and growing businesses. Delivered by Lancashire County Council and the Lancashire Enterprise Partnership, and supported by £3.6m from the European Regional Development Fund (ERDF), it aims to grow Lancashire’s economy by £20m and create at least 1,200 new jobs and safeguard 700 more by 2015.

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