Business Talks

Hosted by Saffery

BusinessInterviews guests

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Episodes

Latest episode

Apr 2026

Language

EN-GB

About the show

In-depth discussions with industry experts, advisers, and business leaders on the topical issues impacting businesses and their owners.

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21 recent

April 1, 2026Episode 221 min

What does the UK's new Employment Rights Act mean for your business?

The UK’s new Employment Rights Act is not just a minor HR tweak; it represents the most significant overhaul of employment law in recent years. These reforms are set to reshape how employers recruit, manage probation, respond to flexible working and handle dismissals for many years to come.In this episode of Business Talks, hosts Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas sit down with employment law expert Dan Begbie-Clench, Employment Law Partner at Doyle Clayton. Together, they discuss complex legislative changes and give their insight on the key points that businesses need to know. They explore:• Why the legislation has been introduced,• Which employer practices it aims to address,• The major changes, particularly around unfair dismissal, qualifying periods and compensation caps,• Which sectors and employee groups may be most affected, and• Practical steps employers can take now to prepare.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

February 17, 2026Episode 121 min

FRS 102 – understanding changes in financial reporting

As of 1 January 2026, significant changes to FRS 102 came into effect marking the biggest update to UK GAAP in more than a decade. But what does this actually mean for your bottom line and your reporting process?The revisions aim to enhance the quality and consistency of UK financial reporting by aligning key areas – notably revenue, leases, and small entity disclosures – more closely with IFRS.In our first episode of the year, co-hosts Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas are joined by Technical and Training Partner, Anna Hicks, to discuss what the new rules mean in practice, including:The purpose of the changes and understanding the regulator’s move toward global alignment.The areas of financial reporting most affected,The industries likely to feel the impact, andPractical steps to support year end reporting under the new rules.Whether you're a CFO, an auditor, or a business owner, this episode is a must listen to ensure you aren't just reacting to the changes, but staying ahead of them.Here are some useful articles for a deeper dive:FRS 102 changesThe latest ECCTA accounts reform: what you need to knowChanges to UK GAAP – how they might affect your businessCompany size thresholds: expected increases and potential impacts on your businessFor more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

December 8, 202518 min

Budget outcomes for business

We unpack how the Autumn Budget changes investment reliefs, hiring costs and compliance, trading a single headline for many smaller moves with real cash impacts. We share clear actions for capital allowances, EMI and EIS/VCT use, transfer pricing readiness and payroll risk.In this Business Talks podcast episode, Tom Alun-Jones, Zoe Thomas, and Adam Kay break down what these changes mean for UK businesses and share practical insights. They discuss:Capital allowances changes – including the new 40% first-year allowance and why timing matters,Employee incentives – updates to EMI and EIS/VCT schemes,Compliance reforms – from transfer pricing simplification to ICTS reporting, andCorporate Interest Restriction (CIR) simplification – what’s changing and the new penalty to watch out for.Additionally, don’t miss our full Budget analysis which is available on our website.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

November 12, 2025Episode 519 min

Register of Overseas Entities: understanding UK property rules for overseas owners

In this episode of Business Talks, our new hosts, Tom Alun-Jones and Zoe Thomas sit down with tax director Victoria Baguley-Wood to unpack the Register of Overseas Entities (ROE), which is a key legal requirement for overseas entities owning UK property.Victoria breaks down what the legislation covers, the risks of non-compliance, and the privacy challenges property owners face. Tom and Zoe also share how Saffery helps clients navigate the process with a full-service ROE solution, from verification through to annual filings.In this episode, you’ll learn:What the ROE is and who it applies toHow to avoid fines of up to £50,000 per propertyWhat trust structures mean for your reportingWhy Saffery is among the few firms offering complete ROE supportWhether you're buying, selling, or holding UK property through an overseas entity, this episode is essential listening.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

September 10, 2025Episode 428 min

The future of Partnerships in the 2020s

Partnership life has evolved dramatically over the past 20 years, shifting from traditional equity models to diverse structures that include salary partners, fixed-share partners, and corporate entities. Modern partners are senior leaders who set culture, drive business forward, and create environments where people can succeed.In this episode of Business Talks, host is joined by Andrew Hedley, Director of Hedley Consulting, to explore what partnership really looks like in the 2020s. Together, they unpack:•How partnership models have evolved across law, accountancy, and property,•The personal and professional shifts that come with becoming a partner, •The tensions between tradition and transformation in today’s firms, and•What aspiring partners should consider before making the leap.Whether you're already in a leadership role or thinking about the next step, this episode offers practical insights and honest reflections on navigating the journey.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

August 13, 2025Episode 323 min

Is your company missing out on Innovation and R&D tax reliefs?

Could your company be missing out on a valuable tax relief?In this engaging discussion, host Jamie Lane and tax specialist Rachel Chappell dive into the world of R&D tax credits, revealing why businesses across all sectors should be paying attention. They explore:What qualifies as R&D (it’s broader than you think!)How to avoid common pitfalls and HMRC scrutinyThe hidden power of the Patent Box regimeStrategic ways to use R&D relief to drive long-term growthWhether you're a startup, scale-up, or established company, this episode is packed with tips on how to unlock value, boost innovation, and navigate recent changes to the regime.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

July 1, 2025Episode 224 min

Is your business at risk? CCO compliance and how to avoid penalties

In our latest episode, we're tackling a crucial compliance issue for UK businesses: the Corporate Criminal Offence (CCO) of failing to prevent the facilitation of tax evasion.Host, Jamie Lane, is joined by Zoe Thomas, Head of Corporate Tax, to discuss the impact of these regulations for businesses of all sizes. They discuss:What the CCO legislation covers,Why HMRC is increasing enforcement,What ‘reasonable steps’ really look like, andHow to protect your business from liability.Whether you're concerned about employee actions, supply chain risks, or the implications for business transactions like mergers and acquisitions, this discussion offers essential guidance on understanding your obligations and putting the right procedures in place.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

April 1, 2025Episode 128 min

Driving business value with sustainability and ESG strategies

Sustainability and ESG are now essential considerations for businesses of all sizes, but rapidly evolving reporting requirements mean there are a number of strategic implications to consider.Yi Zheng, a sustainability and ESG specialist at Saffery joins host, Jamie Lane, to explain current and upcoming reporting frameworks and explore how sustainability can create business value that is far beyond compliance. They discuss:What sustainability and ESG actually mean – and their relevance to your business,How sustainable practices drive both positive impact and business value,The importance of setting clear objectives for your sustainability initiatives, andCurrent reporting frameworks applicable to businesses of all sizes.Note: Listen to our previous podcast on Equality, Diversity and Inclusion that Jamie references at the end of this episode, here.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

September 2, 202429 min

Attracting and retaining talent in professional services

In this episode, Jamie Lane is joined by Mark Duhig, HR Director at Saffery, to discuss the ever-changing world of recruitment and retention.Professional services firms are people-based businesses; having a workforce that’s skilled to meet a business’ requirements is key to its ongoing success.In addition to exploring the role leadership has to play throughout the recruitment and retention process, they cover:Current market conditions and how recruitment activity has softened post-pandemic,People management and the difficulties associated with adjusting to hybrid working, andThe importance of workplace culture and its role in recruitment and retention.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com

July 24, 2024Episode 1129 min

Building your personal brand in a hybrid world

In this episode, Jamie Lane is joined again by Richard Crook, Marketing and Business Development Director at Saffery, to explore the intricacies of business development for professional services firms.As the networking landscape continues to evolve, it’s crucial to balance both digital and in-person professional relationships. Firms must enhance their online presence on LinkedIn with increased activity and engagement, as well as dedicate time to meet clients, targets and intermediaries face-to-face.As well as discussing the importance of building your personal profile, they cover:How the shift from in-person to digital interactions have impacts on personal branding,Top tips on maximising opportunities with potential clients, and How to develop brand awareness in every interaction.Take a look at our recent insights that may be relevant to you:How to make sure your partnership tax return is correctly completed and submitted.For more Business Talks Podcasts, head to: www.saffery.com/insights/podcasts/Saffery official websiteVisit saffery.comFollow Saffery onlineLinkedIn: https://www.linkedin.com/company/safferyInstagram: https://www.instagram.com/saffery_uk/Email: info@saffery.com