As we edge closer towards 2012, the general sense of fresh-faced optimism and anticipation normally associated with this time of year seems to be somewhat lacking. Instead, a definite whiff of turbulence is in the air.

The announcement in the Chancellor’s Autumn statement earmarking a further £1 billion for the Regional Growth Fund (RGF) is likely to see a third round of bidding for funds.

It’s a move that has been welcomed by Peter Cudlip, a Partner who heads up governance, risk and control services in the North of England for Mazars.

The European Commission’s announcement to adopt proposals by Michel Barnier is set to clarify the role of auditors and introduce more stringent rules for the sector. The changes will not only reinforce the independence of auditors, but will offer greater diversity to listed companies and financial institutions (PIEs).

What did we do without it? Technology - it has totally transformed the way we play, communicate and work. It has taken us beyond boundaries, not just in terms of the ability to create new products and business structures, but in our very expectations and the reliance we place on such systems.

Lord Heseltine’s heady mix of business acumen and political knowhow shows no signs of waning. In fact, his torch to lead the regions and cities across the country back to economic growth, prosperity and full employment burns brighter than ever. Here he talks to Hannah Beecham on his vision for England’s provincial cities and offers some personal thoughts and strategies on what it takes to be successful in business today.

Diversity at board level presents both an interesting opportunity and challenge for companies. The opportunity lies in the wealth of untapped potential currently not present at board level or in senior positions. The challenge is in identifying and implementing actions that will deliver real change. The implication is that those businesses that successfully harness this untapped potential will benefit exponentially and achieve sustainable business success.

Hachette UK is the country’s largest book publisher owning prestigious houses such as Time Warner, Hodder & Stoughton, Little Brown and Sceptre. But the name of today’s game in publishing is digitalisation and this company now offers over 10,000 digitalised titles. Here, CEO, Tim Hely Hutchinson talks to Hannah Beecham about current trends and explains how Hachette has positioned itself to make the most of the digital revolution in book publishing.

Pension reforms, turbulent market conditions and increasing regulator involvement are combining to make the role of the pension trustee more challenging.  With scheme deficits running at record highs, employer covenants need regular monitoring to ensure potential funding deficits are picked up early.

Social media presents exciting new opportunities for companies to interact with their colleagues across the business network, their customers and potential new clients. Which company couldn’t gain a little alpha from LinkedIn’s 120 million professional contacts, Twitter’s 200 million communicators, and the 750 million of us who chat on Facebook - all within easy reach of a smartphone?

In response to the financial crisis, the government has brought in some dramatic changes to the financial regulatory system. In this quick Webinar guide, Thouraya Ftouh explores the structure of the new regulatory regime and its objectives.

Secondments, both in the UK and overseas, are a useful way for companies across the commercial spectrum to give their staff experience in a range of different working environments and disciplines. It also allows specialist staff to gain on the ground experience with suppliers, customers or the public sector. For companies, it’s a great way to have someone on board who has vital expertise they can learn from. 

A list of the forthcoming Mazars seminars taking place over December and January across the UK. Including the changing role of the NED and an opportunity to meet technical experts and discuss business growth abroad.